Start changing my own oil again....synthetic recommendations.

Discussion in 'Trucks [ Eighteen Wheelers ]' started by nikmirbre, Sep 1, 2021.

  1. nikmirbre

    nikmirbre Road Train Member

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    Im gonna change my own oil this weekend. I want to try to go full synthetic. I usually use 15w40 rotella. I have a Detroit 12.7

    Looking online, what is the weight I want/need?
     
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  3. Big Road Skateboard

    Big Road Skateboard Road Train Member

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    FYI, I changed from Rotella 15 40 to the T5 5 40 just two weeks ago. Dry engine before, and in my 10 day run I developed leaks at the thrust plate o ring and air compressor. Also seems like my oil pressure dropped.

    Made all repairs, and went back with Rotella conventional. My oil pressure has not recovered.

    Edit: I have not verified gauge accuracy yet, but it didn't change until it had the synthetic
     
  4. xsetra

    xsetra Road Train Member

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    What motor and year?
    Usually same weight 15w40.
    I use semi synthetic 15w40.
     
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  5. nikmirbre

    nikmirbre Road Train Member

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    98 12.7. I think I might go with a synthetic blend also.
     
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  6. nikmirbre

    nikmirbre Road Train Member

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    I have a friend who uses full synthetic and swears by it........no issues yet and same engine as mine. What engine you have?
     
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  7. Goodysnap

    Goodysnap Road Train Member

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    If the older engine is addicted to conventional Rotella for its prior service life, I would stick with it. The only advantage would be longer service intervals beteen changes.

    If you decide to switch to the 5w40 full syn. Watch closely for high consumption rates and low idle oil pressure when hot. More tired the engine, worse it will be.
     
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  8. xsetra

    xsetra Road Train Member

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    The preferred lubricating oil is Shell Rotella SAE 15W-40 (CJ-4). Synthetic oils may be used in Detroit Diesel engines, provided they are approved by a Power Guard Oil Specification. The use of synthetic oil does not necessarily ensure the extension of the recommended oil drain interval beyond its limits.
    upload_2021-9-1_17-39-35.png
    ...DETROIT DIESEL SERIES 60
     
  9. Mototom

    Mototom Road Train Member

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    Why would you choose conventional oil over synthetic? A high quality synthetic oil will have better properties all around.
     
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  10. Big Road Skateboard

    Big Road Skateboard Road Train Member

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    I've got a 60 Series. There's no doubt that synthetic lubricants are superior, and I wanted to push my service intervals out to 20k so I don't need to get it done on the road.

    Just thought I'd throw out what happened to mine. Ran it less than 10k.

    Usage did increase in that 10k. 2 Gallons first 2300 miles
     
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  11. Big Road Skateboard

    Big Road Skateboard Road Train Member

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    From new, no one should.

    But an engine with many miles of conventional??
     
    Goodysnap Thanks this.
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