I finally read the package on the Shell SAE 30 ND API Service Category SB oil that I run in my '54. Yikes!
"Non-detergent SAE 30 Motor Oil is for use in equipment requiring an oil without current or traditional additives except to control oxidation. Some applications include compressors, antique cars and trucks, and pressure washers. Applications should specifically designate the use of a non-detergent oil ..."
"Caution: Not suitable for use in gasoline-powered automotive engines built after 1951. Use in more modern engines may cause unsatisfactory performance or equipment harm. API SB is an obsolete service category."I thought that I was doing good with straight weight non detergent oil. Goes to show that a little info can be a bad thing in the hands of the wrong person.
I know this topic has been driven into the ground and I don't want to start a battle, but I'll ask anyway -
What should I use? Will detergent oil will loosen crud and cause me problems. Or is that an old wive's tail?
Here are the facts about my engine:
> 1954 235 block
> 1959 head 3836848
> Drips a little at the front and back
> Don't know when it was rebuilt. I have had it for over 12 years, but put few miles on it.
> The coolant is clear and clean, so the block may have been treated pretty well before I bought the truck.
> Drained oil is not black and has no water or metal. Change about 2X/yr. Less than 500mi/yr.
> Road draft tube
> No oil filter
> Driven to shows and a little short trip pleasure use. Just completed two trips to Daytona - about 300 miles total at 45MPH.
> Haven't had the oil pan off, so I don't know about sludge in the bottom.
>
{ CLICK } for video of the condition of the rockers. No pics behind push rod cover.
I just finished changing the oil. I'll drain and fill again with the "general consensus" type of oil.
Thanks for your help,
