20w50 oil advice

[1984a]

Now the proud owner of a 1978 MGB GT (thanks for the advice on my other thread, took several viewings but think I've got a good one).

I have a copy of the Drivers handbook.

First job I would like to attempt is an oil change.

Looking at my options on 20w50 oil.

Halfords Classic Oil 5litre £19.99
Carlube Forumla One 5 x 1 litre bottles = £8.95 on current offer with Eurocarparts
Valvoline VR1 Racing Mineral 5litre = £24.75 on current offer with Eurocarparts

The carlube stuff seems just as suitable as the other stuff, anyone used it or can offer advice on which to go for. It's a bog standard road car so not sure if the VR1 is overkill?

[nta16]

Halfords classic 20w/50 is fine until you've regularly and frequently used the car for 12 months and still fine after that

you've not mentioned other classic oil alternatives

change the oil filter at the same time and check the condition of the plastic vented and filtered oil filler cap

also change the air filters at the same time if they paper

if you want I've notes I can give you on doing the oil changes (and for gearbox and diff which I recommend doing if the car is new to you all easy and inexpensive work)

I've also got notes on oils with varying views and links for further research if you want to go into it further but the Halfords is fine I used it and so do many others and it gives good pressure and very good consumption (pressure and consumption does of course depend on the condition of your engine)

IF you want to PM and let me what and how much info you want

IF you've got an oily engine which is using oil check your engine breather system is clear

(note to others the Driver's Handbook is not the Haynes manual)

[1984a]

Thanks, I think I'll go with Halfords classic (no point going for the cheap stuff if Halfords is well used and regarded).

I've just been going through the parts catalogue picking out the bits I'll need incl. spare sump drain plug (just in case), new copper washer, filter, filler cap.

Its had new breather hoses recently. Air filters are brand new and only out on recently by the previous owner (accuspark ones), they look nice but not sure how good they are? Doesn't seem much point in changing them yet unless you would advise otherwise?

They seem to be these ones- http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/180830719537

PM on way for some notes- thanks!

[nta16]

1984a said:

I've just been going through the parts catalogue picking out the bits I'll need incl. spare sump drain plug (just in case), new copper washer, filter, filler cap.

that's good - never replace the CB points condenser unless you know for certain it's not working - I've no idea why some places include it in a service kit

1984a said:

Its had new breather hoses recently.

sorry but that's more reason to check that they are clean, clear and dry inside - unfortunately it doesn't always pay to trust PO work

1984a said:

Air filters are brand new and only out on recently by the previous owner (accuspark ones), they look nice but not sure how good they are? Doesn't seem much point in changing them yet unless you would advise otherwise?

Accuspark are normally respected I believe but those are not a favored design type, you need to wash the foam to keep it clean (follow their instructions)

a photo of them and the rest of the engine bay will help

if it were me and I'd got the original saucepan type filters I'd put them back on with new paper filters inside them - if not for now keep those fitted clean

I always suggest not spending any money on unnecessary changes/improvements/upgrades until you've completed 12 months of year round frequent/regular driving of the car as you may need that money to spend on more necessary work , parts and components

1984a said:

PM on way for some notes- thanks!

oh dear, what have you let yourself in for :maniclaugh:

[1984a]

Here's a pic. Haven't got the original air filters, so these will probably have to stay for now.
I'll double check the breather hoses. There is a chrome heater pipe to fit as well that came with the car.

[nta16]

1984a said:

Here's a pic.

sorry too small for my old eyes on here, if you want to send me hi-res I'll see more but it looks good so far

good to see the better working (if it's not clogged) plastic vented and filtered plastic oil filler fitted instead of the more constricted chrome oil cap often to those rocker covers

the heater pipe is very relevant, you'll see why later - don't assume it will be correct or a good fit carefully check any parts you have or get for correct fit and correct for your car as it is and try never to damage the existing part in case it needs to go back on it the new part isn't correct (hold on to old parts for at least a year or two, unless they're totally worn, broken, used up or useless)

1984a said:

Haven't got the original air filters, so these will probably have to stay for now.

no problem just keep them clean

1984a said:

I'll double check the breather hoses.

very wise - "measure twice to cut once"