Here's my preferences:
- Engine oil: I have a BJ8, known for showing relatively low oil pressure due
to the
gear-type pump. I just completed a 2,800+ mile trip through the Southwest in
a
heat wave, and I believe the Quaker State semi-syn oil I used gave me a couple
more PSI. This stuff only costs a little more than mineral 20W-50. I did a
lot of
research and believe the viscosity index (VI) of an oil roughly correlates
with oil
pressure when hot. The QS semi-syn has a VI of 130-something, mineral 20W-50
is usually 120 and full syns are around 150. I think the semi-syn is a good
compromise.
- Brake fluid: I've used DOT5 (silicone) BF for probably 18 years with no
problems
I can attribute to the fluid. But lately, I've noticed that some of the
fluid I've bled to
have a browish color--anybody else noticed this? I just rebuilt the servo
and replaced
both MCs--I think maybe there was something in the new cyls.
- Gearbox-O/D: I've used Redline MT90 for over two years and 7,000 miles. I'll
never
go back. One Lister (Alan?) has noted less brass shake in the fluid with
MT90;
this bodes well for synchro lifespan. Shifts are smoother and the O/D
engages
quicker.
- Differential: Redline 75W-90 gear oil. No noticeable difference from mineral
(not
surprisingly), but if the MT90 is any indication I expect no problems and
probably
longer life from the (already almost indestructable) Healey rearend.
- Carbs: I use the "official" SU oil, but I think any 20W would work. Have used
engine oil and ATF in the past and not noticed much difference. Use the
lightest
oil you can that prevents lean miss on hard acceleration (and only put about
a
half-inch in the bottom of the inner piston; any more gets blown out the cap).
- Shocks: Use official Armstrong shock fluid. Why not--it's not expensive.
- Coolant: Unless you live in a really cold climate, use about 1/3 antifreeze
(green)
to 2/3 distilled water. As far as I'm concerned, the "controversy" over
using dist.
water--something about it being "mineral hungry" or some such hogwash--is
over.
Most auto experts are recommending distilled, and I've used it for over 15
years
and the coolant and the inside of the engine stay clean. Use Redline Water
Wetter
if you live in a hot climate; it appears to keep the temp down a couple
degrees.
In fact, if you live in a hot climate you can use straight dist. water with
Water
Wetter.
- Driver: Arizona Ice Tea with Ginseng ;)
bs
***************************************************************
Bob Spidell San Jose, CA bspidell@comcast.net
'67 Austin-Healey 3000 '56 Austin-Healey 100M
***************************************************************
Subject: lubricants
>I am sure the old salts are worn out giving this advise over and over, but I
> would appreciate guidance on what products are in vogue for engine oil, rear
> axle 90W, carb dashpot fluid, brake fluid etc. Higher than normal 100M
> compression (145 #). I am putting the car back together and have a 'clean
> slate'. No fluids in the car. Thanks,. Allen Miller BN2M.
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