Shell Rimula X or Shell Helix Diesel Plus for C220 CDi?

[SlowlyButSurely]

I've been using Shell Rimula X 15W-40 for years in our 1994 W124 E300D estate. It's done 180,000 miles and runs beautifully so I think it must be OK. Rimula X is specified as MB Sheet 228.3 API CH4, CG4, CF4, CF. Shell say it's for trucks and buses etc. I get it in 20l drums from Emo Oil for £28 plus VAT.

We have now bought a 1999 W202 220 CDi estate as well. The handbook says to use oil that complies with MB sheet 229.1 and using the search facility on the Shell website recommends using Shell Helix Diesel Plus 10W-40. This is MB sheet 229.1 API CF according to the Shell data sheet. MB Sheet 228.3 is listed as an alternative oil.

My question is: what's the difference between Rimula X and Helix Diesel Plus? Helix is more expensive at £36 plus VAT for 20 litres and appears to be a lower spec, although it is semi-synthetic as opposed to Rimula X which is a mineral oil. So which oil should I use in the C220 CDi?

I'm confused. Any advice would be much appreciated.

 

[John Kerr]

I've been using Shell Rimula X 15W-40 for years in our 1994 W124 E300D estate. It's done 180,000 miles and runs beautifully so I think it must be OK. Rimula X is specified as MB Sheet 228.3 API CH4, CG4, CF4, CF. Shell say it's for trucks and buses etc. I get it in 20l drums from Emo Oil for £28 plus VAT.

We have now bought a 1999 W202 220 CDi estate as well. The handbook says to use oil that complies with MB sheet 229.1 and using the search facility on the Shell website recommends using Shell Helix Diesel Plus 10W-40. This is MB sheet 229.1 API CF according to the Shell data sheet. MB Sheet 228.3 is listed as an alternative oil.

My question is: what's the difference between Rimula X and Helix Diesel Plus? Helix is more expensive at £36 plus VAT for 20 litres and appears to be a lower spec, although it is semi-synthetic as opposed to Rimula X which is a mineral oil. So which oil should I use in the C220 CDi?

I'm confused. Any advice would be much appreciated.

I would stick with the rimula x if I were you ,at that price change every 3k mls

 

[oigle]

Depending on where you are living and the ambient temperatures, the 10/40 may be a better bet in winter. Other than that, Rimula 15/40 is a superb oil and is used in long haul trucking. Wouldn't be bothered changing it more often. I have used it for years in various diesels incl my ML270 and have only ever changed it at 10000km (6000miles) intervals. If you want the "best", there is a new Shell Rimula Ultra fully synthetic diesel oil with a 10/40 rating. It is a long mileage oil and will do 20000km with no worries - much dearer though. I am currently using it and have reverted to changing my oil yearly instead of by mileage. I usually do between 15000 and 20000km per year. Makes for convenience and saves labour.