Oil for Old Briggs and Stratton

[tgharch]

I just bought an old Briggs and Stratton powered edger. I know that you should use SL-rated oil in newer B&S engines, but what about something from early 70's or late 60's. Does anyone know how long B&S has recommended detergent oil? Thanks

 

[Slick 55]

Good old HD30 will work fine.

 

[tgharch]

Thanks for the reply. After I got it home I found a label that states SAE 30 SC or SD. So detergent oil should be fine.

 

[theguru]

Just about any oil would probably be ok as long as it is not too thin. The biggest issue with powered garden equipment is that people do not check and fill-up the oil with every use. The oil capacity of most garden eqiupment is very small, so the engine is really dependant on it being full.

 

[Rob Taggs]

I have a 25 year old 7 hp Briggs and Stratton that had nothing but a steady diet of Pennzoil 30HD in it. When I tore down the motor for a rebuild I was surprised at how good the parts looked. The cylinder had some scratches but, nothing to worry about.

A few folks here set me straight on my Pennzoil bashing. Also I have the positive proof that it is not the bad oil I was brought up thinking it was.

As for now, I run Havoline 30HD in it. Why? I just like it more and it does not burn off the way Pennzoil does.