Originally Posted By: BMWTurboDzl
Originally Posted By: JAG
Originally Posted By: Gene K
I just did a 30,000 mile run on conventional in a diesel.
Starting TBN - 10.6
Finishing TBN - 6.25
Sure, rub it in!
My GTI 1.8T would probably drop the TBN that much in only 3000 miles.
I used M1 5W-30 ESP and was disappointed in its ability to prevent varnish in my VW. In contrast I was very impressed with Penzzoil Ultra 5W-40 in this regard which I ran for roughly double the miles that the M1 ESP.
Interesting to hear that M1 left varnish. How many MCI's did you run the ESP and what did you run prior?
I ran the ESP for 1 oil change interval and for around 3800 miles. Other people with the longitudinal 1.8T engine seem to be able to run oils much longer than me and see no varnish but maybe they don't watch it as closely as I do or maybe my particular engine is predisposed to it. Previous oils I've used (NOT in this order):
M1 0W-40 (2003/2004 & ~2009 versions)
Valvoline Synpower 5W-40 (old high-SAPS and current mid-SAPS)
Lubromoly 0W-40 and 5W-40 (~2005-2008 versions)
German Castrol 0W-30
M1 5W-40 TDT
Amsoil ACD SAE 30
Amsoil 5W-40 (old high-SAPS)
Redline (various mixes)
Pennzoil Ultra 5W-40