Beginning A-RX trial BMW E30 325i

[glennc]

Another update.

Just ended the first rinse phase, changing oil and filter and adding another 9oz Auto-RX to begin the second clean phase. Change done at 237789mi for a first rinse phase (completion phase?) of 2336 miles. Oil was still quite clean. I haven't been able to detect any change throughout the rinse phase. No difference in running, mileage, or appearance inside the valve cover.

I filled with 2qts Havoline 5w30 and approx. 2-1/2 qts Delo 15w40, which should be good down to well below zero with this engine (which recommends 15w40 down to -4F or so). Despite having become an advocate of the Chevron products this has been the first time I've had the chance to use them in this motor. I immediately noticed quicker startup, quieter running, improved FM reception, better brake feel and an increase in trunk capacity. Also I ran a 440 today and the Havoline has reduced my personal best time by 1.2 seconds. Or maybe that was the Delo. No, the Delo is more of a marathon-running type of motor oil.

I haven't had time to cut up the filter yet so I'll do that and report findings when I get a chance. New filter is another identical Mahle piece.

- Glenn

 

[Russell]

Glennc,
I completed my first clean/rinse cycle on my 95 e34 with 118,000 miles. The oil filters only had small to tiny soft sludge like particles when changed and oil darkened at what seemed to be normal rate. The only change I have noticed, to date, is the car seems to run stronger.

I am now on the second clean/rinse cyc;e per Frank's instructions. I think my engine was realativly free of contaminants but auto rx is even now cleaning the ring packs a bit.

 

[glennc]

I tend to agree with your thinking. I guess these engines stay pretty clean if they're properly maintained. I certainly haven't had the experience of many, who find vast amounts of crud being cleaned out all the way through the process.

Any increase in performance I've noticed has been small enough that it's impossible for me to tell whether it's really there. When I conclude the second rinse phase I'll run another compression check, and that will tell me whether any real change has taken place as far as ring sealing, etc. It will be very interesting to see, as everything else has been totally subjective.

- Glenn