| Message: | | Engine oil alert.
Many automotive engineers have acknowledged that these newest API (American Petroleum Institute) SM and CJ-4 motor oils are not sufficient for protecting many older engines. With longevity and the protection of vital engine components in mind they are recommending the addition of STP or EOS [Delco EOS 12371532] at every oil change. Racers that used to run M1 in their race cars have either switched to synthetic Mobil 1 V-Twin 20w50 or have resorted to using premium dinosaur oils, such as Swepco 306 or Brad Penn Racing oils.
The new SM and CJ-4 oils have greatly reduced Zinc and Phosphorus levels as an attempt to extend the life of catalytic converters in modern cars. These components make up the anti-wear additive ZDDP (zinc dialkyl dithiosphosphate). Our older engines with solid lifters and high valve train unit pressures REQUIRE these additives. The BMW 328 engine is particularly vulnerable to premature cam lobe failure. All of the pre-war BMW engines have small bores and long strokes, producing high piston speeds. Without the proper protection, engine life will be greatly reduced.
Check the little API symbols on your cans of oil. If they say API-SM, SM , or CJ-4 do not use them. Diesel grade oils still have high enough levels of ZDDP, or use the alternatives listed in the first paragraph.
Tom Graham
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