C2 996 - Which Oil?

[Jb2]

Afternoon All

My 996 is giving some strange oil readings on the digital display, sometimes it is on one bar (minimum indicator) other times there are 4 bars.. the dash oil light isn't on though, and the dipstick looks ok.

I want to top it up anyway, but the manual says check with Porsche to use an approved oil - but I can't get thru to my local OPC. Anyone know what the recommended oil types are?

Thanks

John

[barry_j]

There are a few but the one that they use most is Mobil 1 0/40.

The guages are normally very very accurate. When taking the reading make sure you're on a level surface and the engine is at working temperature otherwise you may get a dodgy reading. Likewise if using the dipstick. The engine needs to be running in both cases.

Whatever you do, don't overfill as you'll do untold damage! Top up a bit at a time and re-check the level.

Edited by barry_j on Wednesday 30th August 17:29

[DucatiGary]

barry_j said:

Whatever you do, don't overfill as you'll do untold damage! Top up a bit at a time and re-check the level.

OK Im scared now, what damage could it do?

[nbetts]

barry_j said:

The engine needs to be running in both cases.

Hmmmm - On the GT3/Turbo engined cars... the engine needs to be running...

On the 996/997 non-turbo non-GT3 cars the Engine needs to be off...

Other than that Barry_J has got it right.

[Jb2]

Thanks for the replies guys, I will check it again when I drive it later after a little bit, when it's warm though it takes about 45 seconds to get an oil reading so I'm usually started and half way down the road by then.

Barry - stunning car! *drools*

[SpeedPhreak]

Despite the Mobil One sticker in the engine bay, Champion Porsche in South Florida (same one as the Racing Team and the maker of Monolite Wheels) uses PENNZOIL 5W/40.

When measuring, I would agree that level ground is pretty important. I've usually measured my oil after the engine has been running for a bit and get consistent measurements from the computer and the dipstick after taking the average of 3 measurements each.

Do NOT overfill your vehicle with oil!!! According to my service technician at Champion, the excess ends up leaking out of the engine and you get a nasty burning smell when it lands on the block. It subsequently requires the engine to be taken out if you want it cleaned up! (I had asked the same question )

These Boxers do get thirsty when driving hard, so if you're adding some between an oil change, take your time and add a little at a time. You shouldn't need too much to bring it a bar or two on the computer.

[jb2]

Sorry to bump this thread, I'm trying to find where I can buy Mobil 1 0/40 oil - anyone know of any retailers that sell it? I've tried Halfords to no avail. I'm off on a 300 mile trip this weekend so would like to top it up today to be on the safe side!

Thanks

John

[jb2]

To avoid starting another thread too, I'm a little concerned about the oil pressure gauge in my 996. When I'm driving quite hard (i.e. high rpm) the gauge stays at the top 5, and drops when it's low RPM. Is this normal? From reading the manual I get the feeling it should be the opposite?

Clear display of my non-mechanical knowledge!

Thanks in advance for any help

[ballcock]

jb2 said:

To avoid starting another thread too, I'm a little concerned about the oil pressure gauge in my 996. When I'm driving quite hard (i.e. high rpm) the gauge stays at the top 5, and drops when it's low RPM. Is this normal? From reading the manual I get the feeling it should be the opposite?

Clear display of my non-mechanical knowledge!

Thanks in advance for any help

Should be at 5 on startup , at any revs .. as the engine warms up it'll eventually show about 1.5 bar at idle and up at about 4.5 / 5 bar by 3/4ooo rpm.
Fear not my man....Sounds like your engine's doing all the right stuff.