If it's never been rebuilt then it likely was originally run with non detergent oil.

Switching to a detergent oil now has a great chance of breaking loose all sorts of dirt and stuff that was previously causing no harm sticking out of the way to engine parts.

Do you have a full flow oil system, or bypass?

There are a whole bunch of opinions on the subject I'm sure.. I was taught to run non detergent if that's what was originally used, and not risk breaking loose dirt that can cause engine problems. Otherwise if starting from a fresh clean engine then use modern oil (Shell Rotella SAE 30 is a good choice).

Grigg


•1951 GMC 250 in the Project Journals
•1948 Chevrolet 6400 - Detroit Diesel 4-53T - Roadranger 10 speed overdrive - 4 wheel disc brakes
•1952 Chevrolet 3800 pickup
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"First, get a clear notion of what you desire to accomplish, and then in all probability you will succeed in doing it..." -Henry Maudslay-