Rimula 15w40 or 5w40 synth?

[Mike_S_B]

Hello to Group,
We have 2 Fiat 1910cc passenger car diesels here in the UK. 2002 models.
One is indirect injection, the other common rail with a turbocharger. Both have EGR.
Fiat Oil spec is ACEA B3 Semi Synthetic 10w 40 for both.
or 5w40 to CF at below -15c
The question is specifically about Shell Rimula 15w40
As this is to CI-4 I wondered whether this would be better for both engines?
Temperature here in winter is only rarely a few degrees below freezing point.
The local dealer uses Castrol magnatec Semi Synthetic 10w40 to ACEA B3...in both petrol and diesels in for service. This is Fiats spec but is it a compromise on Diesel ?
Rarely are both cars driven at over 2,500 revs.
Thanks, Mike

 

[Johnny]

Mike,

I'm not up to date with all of the oils that Shell has in Europe but I would think the Rimula would be fine. If you are looking at a 5W40 might try the Shell Helix or Shell Helix Ultra.

I don't really have any contacts in Europe but I do have with Shell in Houston and I would be glad to find out more if you want me to.

You can post on here or send me a PM if you want.

 

[Mike_S_B]

Hello Johnny, Thanks for the reply and for your offer to contact shell in the US.
I already rang Shell UK (after my initial post here) they said to use oil to ACEA B3 and that their fully synthetic 5w40 was the best for my applications.
I was puzzled about that and (viscosity aside) could not understand why the Rimula`s CI-4 spec would not be superior.
Oil seems to be more expensive here with Mobil 1 retailing at around $64 for 4 litres.
A motor store chain here (Halfords) sells a fully synthetic oil to ACEA B4 5w 40. This is around the same price for 5 litres and every so often they have a special offer on, last year, buy one and get a can free.
I guess I will stick to this as its reputed to be a major brand packaged in their name.
I`m still interested in how CI-4 could be considered less suitable than Acea B3......
I always thought API was more stringent, but theres obviously a lot more to this than I understand

Cheers, Mike SB