Would 15w-50 be too thick for a Saab 900 turbo 16v

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Greetings:

I have a Saab 900 turbo 16 valve 2.0 (B202). I would like to put m1-15w-50 in the engine. The m1 website states that this particular oil has good flow down to -39 degrees or thereabouts. Lately, the temps have ventured into the single digits, in addition to the windchill factors. My engine now has a slight drumstick like moderate knock in it, due to oil loss via an oil cooler line popping off! It happened while I was on the hwy. However, I pulled right over, applied temp repairs to the line and refilled with some extra m1-10-30 hm that I had for another one of my vehicles. Initially before this debacle, I was using m1-10-40 hm oil. I suspect air trapped in the head (possible prime/purge). The noise is most pronouced in gear, overall engine performance hasn't been affected. The engine itself runs smooth, with exception to this annoying light knock, that only partially diminishes when in park, and gets somewhat louder in gear. I am going to get another motor anyways (junkyard) to be install whenever this one kicks the bucket, which may not even happen for quite sometime? However, I just want a grade of oil that will quiet this annoyance a bit more! M-1 10w-30 hm oil seems to be a bit too thin for this turbo, these turbos can really work an oil to nothing. I don't mean to sound rudundant and or long winded, but I just figured, if I am to get the very best feedback on this subject matter, that this forum, would be one such place. I am very mechanically inclined with an open mind. The car is driven 99% hwy miles (850-1,000 miles weekly).Please any and or all experiences would be greatly appreciated,thanks in advance!

Best Regards,

1991 Saab 900 turbo 16 v 2.0 (B202) cast iron block 180,000 plus original miles, in very good condition!
 
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typically, IIRC, 15w- oils are good for down to about 0F. Does your OM havea chart that specs ambient temperatures vs. viscosity of oil?

JMH
 
I think it would work fine for you but a good 5w40 would probably be the best overall. With Rotella T Syn and Mobil 1 TDT available everywhere it would make more sense. Best of luck.
 
Originally Posted By: coffee
I think it would work fine for you but a good 5w40 would probably be the best overall. With Rotella T Syn and Mobil 1 TDT available everywhere it would make more sense. Best of luck.


Yeah, if you want to use it, many folks ran these cars on higher grade oils back in the 80's and really up til recently. But I agree a 5W40 might be better. But if you see some 15W50 on discount closeout, go for it! I did. Got about 20 qts or so for $2 each.
 
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