09-03-2023, 10:48 AM
(09-03-2023, 10:37 AM)Ivor Hawkins Wrote: I agree with you Chris, 20/50 is probably a bit heavy, I used to use a straight 30 agricultural machinery oil for years, but of late I have been using a high zinc content “optimised detergent” (whatever that is) 20/50 and my oil consumption appears to have improved.
Next time I whip the sump off, which is a real pain as it’s a Nippy one, I’ll check out the bearings and see if there’s anything untoward, but touching wood the engine goes well.
Not sure about "high zinc" or "optimised detergent" but I'd be very surprised if 20W50 gave you any trouble.
Yes I use a Nippy sump too, mainly because I value the extra capacity for touring, but they are a bit of a fiddle around the front end. I generally remove it before lifting the engine out and replace it in situ when the engine is back. The thing to watch out for is it can snag on the frame, giving the impression of being "seated" but actually leaving a gap all along the front edge. That's how I came to use a gallon of oil driving to Beaulieu and back last year (about 260 miles)! When the car was stationary no leak could be detected! I only figured it out when I removed the sump and found my sealant of choice had not been touched by the crankcase...