Correct Engine Oil for 351M
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Trailering
Joined: Jan 2025
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Correct Engine Oil for 351M
Good morning. I bought an old Ford from a guy last spring and they always ran 20w-50 in the 351M engine (1977) that they put in it. I think that is too thick and think next change I'll do 10w-40. Solid opinions would be helpful for me on this topic.
Hotshot
Joined: Feb 2004
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From: The Shenandoah Valley
I have used 20w50 Kendall GT-1 more than aa few times in my '77 351M, but the last few years have been using up the Chevron Delo 400LE 15w40 I bought on a sale when after retirement I was working part time at Advance Auto Parts, I had two Honda Gold Wing MCs and they shared oil engine with trans in sump, sure made for smooth shifting. I still have a case of the Kendall saved, I also had a Triumph MC that used it .... If stored long shake it up but good.
I have been known to use a gallon jug of the Delo and 2 qts of the Kendall together. I use some Kendall in my old Wheel Horse too. Likely I'll use up the Kendall in time, I can't see just pitching it. Someday, might even show up at an antique mall ... even though it's in plastic bottles?
I have been known to use a gallon jug of the Delo and 2 qts of the Kendall together. I use some Kendall in my old Wheel Horse too. Likely I'll use up the Kendall in time, I can't see just pitching it. Someday, might even show up at an antique mall ... even though it's in plastic bottles?
Lead Driver
Joined: Oct 2018
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Typically, you'd run 10-30 or 10-40 in these engines. get a high zinc oil like Valvoline VR-1 or equivalent.
If your engine has some miles on it 20-50 could be a good choice. your engine has a bottom end prone to failure and the heavier oil fills the gaps and extends the life. you can tell by your oil pressure or lack thereof.
If your engine has some miles on it 20-50 could be a good choice. your engine has a bottom end prone to failure and the heavier oil fills the gaps and extends the life. you can tell by your oil pressure or lack thereof.
Hotshot
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 10,854
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From: The Shenandoah Valley
What kind of climate .... like are you in the frigid north near Canada or out in warmer climate like west Texas .... will it be a daily driver subject to starts after a long frigid night covered in snow or in a semi heated garage?
I've had several cars back in the '70s & '80s that never saw anything but the 20w50 Kendall GT-1, my Department even used it in all those Plymouth 440 police cars, but that was Amoco oil as I recall.
I've had several cars back in the '70s & '80s that never saw anything but the 20w50 Kendall GT-1, my Department even used it in all those Plymouth 440 police cars, but that was Amoco oil as I recall.
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Trailering
Joined: Jan 2025
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What kind of climate .... like are you in the frigid north near Canada or out in warmer climate like west Texas .... will it be a daily driver subject to starts after a long frigid night covered in snow or in a semi heated garage?
I've had several cars back in the '70s & '80s that never saw anything but the 20w50 Kendall GT-1, my Department even used it in all those Plymouth 440 police cars, but that was Amoco oil as I recall.
I've had several cars back in the '70s & '80s that never saw anything but the 20w50 Kendall GT-1, my Department even used it in all those Plymouth 440 police cars, but that was Amoco oil as I recall.
Hotshot
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 10,854
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From: The Shenandoah Valley
When really cold with 20w50, once started I didn't rev my POVs until the temp came up. In those police cars, I did what they paid me to do. Never had an issue. I haven't pitched my 20w50 though.
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Logistics Pro
Joined: Jun 2004
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From: South Central Utah
If you're looking for some cheap oil you might try Walmart's 15w40 diesel oil. It has zinc in it.
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Hotshot
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 10,854
Likes: 2,621
From: The Shenandoah Valley
I had forgot I just bought some myself, and the Delo I mentioned has zink.
I don't see Walmart or Costco refining their own oils.
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