What oil for a performance engine?

[dan_erickson]

As a toy I have a 2001 Grand Prix GTP I built up the engine and was wondering if there is a specific oil and filter you would recommend. It is a 3.8L supercharged V6 with lots of modifications done to the engine, and the entire car. I beat the snot out of this thing, take it to the drag strip and run it hard all the time. I am currently running PP 5W30 and that is what the car calls for. I have also used Mobil 1 many of times and not had a problem with either yet. Here is the list of mods so you have a better idea.

2005 3800 V6
9.5 to 1 compression
2005 Eaton Gen V supercharger
14 psi of boost
ZZP XP cam shaft with .526 lift
Comp 105 lb valve springs
Modified spring retainers
ZZP stage 2 intercooler
ARP head studs
ARP rocker bolts
T.O.G. Extreme headers
3" exhaust
Dynotech race built transmission
DHP Powertuner and tuned by myself
and other small supporting mods
its a monster and will rip the tires loose at 60mph lol

 

[dtt004]

Hi.

Looks like you are after maximum power? In that case, use a low viscosity oil. I don't think they sell anything lower than a 20 to consumers, so you should use that.

 

[dan_erickson]

Maximum power, yes. I would rather have maximum oil protection and willing to sacrifice some power to have better protection.

 

[aquariuscsm]

RP`s XPR? I think you can get anywhere from a 0W5 up to a 20W50. They even have a Nitro Plus mono 70 weight.

 

[johnnydc]

Is this car a daily driver, Or just for weekend racing?
The oil you've been using should work fine. Either Mobil1 or PP try 5/20. 5w30 should be fine. If you have tight clearance then the lower viscosity is better. Like I said both are great oils. Also look into Brad Penn oils. Good stuff that is!!!

 

[johnnydc]

Oh, 1 more thing...Nice ride....................

 

[dan_erickson]

It is just a summer / weekend toy. Thanks jonnydc

 

[crazyoildude]

5w30

 

[johnnydc]

Also, try looking into Valvoline VR1 racing oils. I know they have 5w30 might even have 5/20 Lots of ZDDP.

 

[901Memphis]

Probably stick with the 5w30 you are using.

Also link to pics or post pics please, sounds like a sleeper!

 

[dan_erickson]

just looked on Valvoline site and they have 10W30 and that would be fine during the warm months.

 

[dan_erickson]

 

[Hollow]

For something that is a summer toy and not getting tons of miles, I think I would look at Redline.

 

[vxcalais]

Use a heavy duty oil like Delvac MX or Delo 400 Multi. You want the HTHS and Zinc for the rocker lifter cam area and added heat from the compression. 5w40 as a minimum would be my advice. We are running these on anything from 5w40 to 20w50 in Australia no issues.

 

[Turk]

Sooooo nice... Post some times if you have 'em...

Stay with 5-30, 10-30 or 5-40 - in that order, according to temereature/heat conditions.

PP would be fine, but upgrades would be Redline, Amsoil, Brad Penn. Keep the Zinc & Moly up.

 

[johnnydc]

I am a Ford guy, But Pontiacs always have a place in my heart. Nice car. I don't think you need to break the bank on the fancy oils. I know plenty of guys with hi performance engines and run Mobil 1, VR-1, or Brad Penn. I know alot of people think if you spend big bank on the fancy stuff it's like magic. But it's not. Keep doing what you are doing as far as oil choices. Or if you want talk to someone that specializes in building engines and see what they say.

 

[NHHEMI]

I would upgrade to Royal Purple XPR or Redline for that vehicle. 30 weight is still ok.

 

[A_Harman]

Redline 5w30.

I have a warm place in my heart for supercharged Buick V6's.
The Eaton GenV is a very good unit.
Any chance you could upgrade to an Eaton TVS? That would add a significant amount of power due to higher efficiency.

 

[Josh48065]

Yes I agree with A Harman, on the Redline. A good racing oil for a high performance engine.

 

[TFB1]

I'd use the either the VR1 or M1 0W-40 that I have in my supercharged Marauder...