Oil Choices for a 92 Volvo?

[drewjp]

My friend will soon be getting his dad's 1992 Volvo 745T, which is overboosted to 2 bars, and has an oil-to-water oil cooler. Also, it has over 170k miles, but many of the parts have been replaced over the years and it still runs fine.

He's not sure which oil to use. The manual recommends 10w30, and his dad has always used Mobil 1 10w30 in it. This car will see 90% city driving(San Francisco).


I recommended GC, since it's still available locally for him, but he thinks it will be too thick for the turbo bearings. He's apt to try Mobil 1 0W-40. He will stick with OEM Mahle and Mann filters, and likely a 3500 mi OCI. Also, I think I've convinced him to get an UOA after his first oil change to see where the engine stands with Mobil 1.


Which oils do you think will provide the best viscosity for his engine?

 

[TimVipond]

From the Amsoil site:

1992 VOLVO 740 2.3L 4-cyl Engine Code 86, 87 Turbo
Engine Oil
Grade 1......API*
Series 2000 Synthetic 0w30 Motor Oil
SAE 10w30 Synthetic Motor Oil
SAE 10w30 XL Synthetic Motor Oil
-25 To 40°F......10W-30
Above 0°F......15W-40
Looks like lots of viscosity choices to me.

 

[Merkava_4]

Just like the above chart says, 10w30 is only for up to 40 degrees Fahrenheit. I'd be running 5W-40 Valvoline Synpower if it were mine.

 

[Pablo]

Amsoil Synthetic 5W-40, 10W-40 or 15w40.

 

[Patman]

Quote:

---

I recommended GC, since it's still available locally for him, but he thinks it will be too thick for the turbo bearings. He's apt to try Mobil 1 0W-40.

---

Why would he want to try 0w40 if he thinks GC is too thick? GC would be a perfect choice for this engine, IMO.

 

[Steve S]

I don't get the too thick "think" part but why not keep using the M1?

 

[hominid7]

Given the history and success, i'd be tempted to stick with what has worked, Mobil 1 10w30.

 

[coffee]

I am switching to Valvoline Maxlife 10w40 next OCI for my two Volvos and I think it would be a great option for you as well.