In regards to comparing a big domestic V8 to the 2.3 and oil viscosity, one issue would be bearing clearances. The V8 is going to have greater bearing clearances so you would want to run a thicker oil. Imagine as your motor is running, the only thing between the bearings in your rods and crank journals is this pressurized film of oil. Too thin and it might not protect the bearings when you zing the motor or worse yet, LUG the motor. Low RPM is lower oil pressure and high load is more "squeeze" between journals and bearings. Not a good combination.
In addition, most of those older V8 motors ran flat tappet cams and sled fulcrum rockers. To combat wear in these areas, you want an oil higher in ZDDP, which is one lubricant that helps prevent wear (Zinc dithiophosphates ). Lots of guys running flat tappet cams run Rotella oils which are high in ZDDP. Problem is this stuff plugs up catalytic converters more quickly.
Modern oils have a lot less ZDDP than they used to for this reason. You can add ZDDP to your oil and help reduce wear, but it's possible it will plug up your cats sooner. It's an eye and skin irritant too. I think STP makes an additive as does Crane and Comp cams. Check out Valvoline racing oil at NAPA. Right on the box it says Not Legal for Street use. This is due to the high levels of ZDDP. Got a case of 10W40 full synth sitting in my garage and thinking of giving it to my neighbor who has a 70's GTO.
Personally I like either full synth Mobil 1 or Valvoline and that's what I'll run in my MS3 eventually. Also have ran Royal purple but it's pricey. Amsoil is also very good but best way to get it is to become a distributor yourself, and sell to your friends. Used to do that too.
In contrast, local race engine builder swears synthetic is a waste of money. He always recommends mineral based oil and change it every 3K. They don't even like to run synth in differentials or transmissions.
In addition, most of those older V8 motors ran flat tappet cams and sled fulcrum rockers. To combat wear in these areas, you want an oil higher in ZDDP, which is one lubricant that helps prevent wear (Zinc dithiophosphates ). Lots of guys running flat tappet cams run Rotella oils which are high in ZDDP. Problem is this stuff plugs up catalytic converters more quickly.
Modern oils have a lot less ZDDP than they used to for this reason. You can add ZDDP to your oil and help reduce wear, but it's possible it will plug up your cats sooner. It's an eye and skin irritant too. I think STP makes an additive as does Crane and Comp cams. Check out Valvoline racing oil at NAPA. Right on the box it says Not Legal for Street use. This is due to the high levels of ZDDP. Got a case of 10W40 full synth sitting in my garage and thinking of giving it to my neighbor who has a 70's GTO.
Personally I like either full synth Mobil 1 or Valvoline and that's what I'll run in my MS3 eventually. Also have ran Royal purple but it's pricey. Amsoil is also very good but best way to get it is to become a distributor yourself, and sell to your friends. Used to do that too.
In contrast, local race engine builder swears synthetic is a waste of money. He always recommends mineral based oil and change it every 3K. They don't even like to run synth in differentials or transmissions.
