Answers FArom The Oil Expert Part # 2

Oilman, do petrol and diesel oils differ ?
Tezza

 

No in the main no, most diesel oils carry petrol specs and vice versa.

Most oils would state for example ACEA A3/B3

A=Petrol
B=Diesel

Cheers

 

Oilman

Keep posting - I'm an oilophile - my wife keeps catching me reading these articles and researching - she just cannot understand it.

I tried the old castrol strapline "oil is too short a word" but she still reckons I need to get a life

I shall keep on as before

Thx

R

 

Stumbled across that

I was shopping around for a good oil for my 1989 300d straight 6. Noticed on reading few labels had same specs on label for petrol and other for diesel but the prices were quite differ. Still ended up buying the one that said DIESEL on side of can as i just didn't know.

 

Oilman, I just bought 10 litres of synthetic ATF for the gearbox, then dipped it to check the condition and it's like new. On checking back my services I had the ATF changed 2 years ago.

My question is how long will the ATF keep in the 5 litre plastic bottles, will it last 1 to 2 years until I change it again?

 

Doug, It'll last for about 4 years in the cans so you've got plenty of time.

And11, the petrol/diesel thing is a marketing ploy. They charge more for the diesel oils generally and make people think they need it.

Cheers

Tim

 

Thanks oilman that saves me looking a complete idiot to her in doors and waisting almost £100.

You are a gentleman.

 

Is there a good cheapish oil I can use (will be changed every 1800 miles)?

Hi I just bought a 2002 ML270 CDI and got a silly warranty with it that requires me to change the oil every 3000km/3months whichever is first (yeah thats right every 1800miles!)

So I would like to know what oil I should use, bearing in mind the cost of decent oil, and the frequency at which it will be discarded.

The car is new to me, so I would like the protection offered by the warranty until I have more confidence in the car - but not at any cost! Then I will ditch the warranty and use proper high quality oil and do it myself.

Cheers.

 

Don't discard it, just swap it every 3000km/3months. Technically "changing" the oil as required!

If you're doing it, how are they going to police it if you don't change the oil?
Do you have to have it service stamped somewhere?

 

Yeah unfortunately it has to be done and stamped by a registered mechanic.

 

If you've been for a long drive should you let the engine idle to alow the turbo to cool or can these oils take that sort of temp?

 

Fuel Saver

The market is beginning to see many so-called devices that improve fuel economy. It is important to beware of such devices. Devices such as these require you to go to sources such as Consumer Report's so you can make a solid decision on what is right for your vehicle. Many people are desperate for a solution to the spiking gas prices.
http://www.gainex.co.uk/

 

Magnets.... I am not a believer.

Cheers

Guy

 

I think my MB Vito looks at the oil optically in a transparent tube within the engine and when the light source shining through it becomes obscured to a certain level due to increasing opacity by dirt, it triggers the service interval warning, although mileage and driving conditions also play a part in the calculations. In MB's it's known as ASSYST. This could be correct or total cobblers but it's what I was told. Can anyone confirm or deny?

Regards, Sam

 

I don't know how my MB 'looks' at the oil but, when I had to top her up with 1.5 litres of oil fresh oil (filter cover came loose), ASSYST added an extra couple of thousand miles until the next service was due.

 

I always use Vauxhall extra long life fully synthetic oil in all my cars and those of my relatives, it's a 5W/30 oil that is both high quality and excellent value for money. I have a Tradeclub account with Drive Vauxhall and at present they are offering buy 4 for the price of 3 on 5 lite and 20 litre cans of oil (mineral, semi-synthetic and fully synthetic engine oils). Would be happy to help anyone out living close to Camberley in supplying them oil at about £24 per 5 litre can or four for £72 - an absolute bargain for fully synthetic oil. Also, it's worth opening a trade account with Halfords, who are very competative on oils, fast turnover parts and particularly their home brand parts. I've heard it all before about them being 'rip-offmerchants' but honstly, if you pick and choose, they can be very competative and guarentee to beat any local trade price!

Regards,

Nick

 

All the different MB oil specs are listed here which may be useful

http://www.opieoils.co.uk/c-691-mercedes-benz.aspx

Cheers
Guy

 

Oil - mixing two makes and types

Hi All

A question for OILMAN - the guru of oil-sensibility and anyone with oily - techie knowledge.

I need to change oil on my C class CDI 220. This is my first attempt.

Can I mix two different types oils - namely:-

CASTROL 10-40 (API SJ; ACEA A3/B3)[5 litres] and CHEVRON SUPREME DIESEL 10-40 (MB 229.1; API SL/CF; ACEA 13-02, B4-02 & B3)[2 litres]?

Also, how about CASTROL EDGE 0-30 (APS SL/CF; ACEA A3/BB/B4; MB 229.3/229.5)[1 litre]?

The reason for the 'mix-up' is that I have left over cans that I would prefer to use up.

Your advice would be invaluable and appreciated.

Regards.

RJP

 

Which year is the car please?

Cheers
Guy

 

W203 - Cdi 220 - 2002