Re: 5W-30 on the Autobahn?

[John Bolhuis <bolhuijo@xxxxxxxxxxxx>]

On Wed, 7 Nov 2001, Henri Baccouche wrote:

> One thing.........about the thin oils:
>
> How long will any motor last on a 5w or 10w oil ?
> This is the question..........I would like to know.
>
> I know from personal experience that the E30 straight six can run easily
> to 250K-350k+ miles on a 20w-50.

 Let's not forget that the important number is the 2nd one, i.e. the
30 in 5w30.  A 5w30 behaves like a 5 weight when cold, and behaves
like a 30 weight oil when warm.
 Furthermore, a properly designed motor has internal clearances
specified with the designated lubricant in mind.  A motor designed for
thinner oil should last just as long as one designed for thicker oil,
provided they're using the right oil. As long as the oil film is
maintained between the moving parts, you gots no problems.

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