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Discussion Topic:
ZDDP and Engine Oil
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LarryK |
09-16-2014 @ 10:01 AM
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New Member
Posts: 105
Joined: Aug 2012
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I have been reading posts recommending Castrol 20W/50 GTX engine oil. Does it contain ZDDP? Should any recommended oil for our engines contain it? Thanks.
Larry
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Stroker |
09-16-2014 @ 10:30 AM
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Senior
Posts: 1460
Joined: Oct 2009
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ZDDP provides a protective surface on cam lobes that are subject to high shear loads. A stock Ford flathead V8 has very low tappet/lobe loading due to the light valvetrain, mild valve timing, and modest RPM's. Unless you have installed aftermarket "racing" springs and/or a quick opening, high-lift aftermarket camshaft, ZDDP is unnecessary in my opinion. Castrol 20W/50 is an excellent product for our stock Flathead engines as it has sufficient viscosity when hot to provide a reliable film cushion in the larger bearing clearances in the older designs. I don't believe any modern oil that is formulated for use in modern cars contains ZDDP, as it reportedly degrades modern emission systems and sensors.
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ford38v8 |
09-16-2014 @ 6:32 PM
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Senior
Posts: 2763
Joined: Oct 2009
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What he said.
Alan
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len47merc |
09-17-2014 @ 5:21 AM
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Senior
Posts: 1165
Joined: Oct 2013
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Brad Penn makes oil containing high levels of ZDDP (zinc and phosphorous): http://www.penngrade1.com/ Their straight 30 weight is a 'Break-In' oil for new engines and contains extremely high levels of ZDDP whereas their 10W-30, 10/15W-40 and 20W-50 have lower levels of ZDDP intended for routine use. Government regulations are understood to require no ZDDP in routine modern automotive applications. Brad Penn skirts this issue by producing their oil only for racing, performance and classic car applications. It takes some getting used to as it is greenish-black versus the traditional amber color. Their products are usually found in high performance racing shops only or through on-line purchase. It is pricey but there if you choose to use it. I have been a long, long-time user of and believer in Castrol products and agree with Stroker's comments with the lone exception of personally if using Castrol for our flatheads I use a lower weight for a new motor (post-break in period) and/or winter time use. Steve
This message was edited by len47merc on 9-17-14 @ 8:20 AM
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Bertha |
09-17-2014 @ 10:19 AM
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New Member
Posts: 129
Joined: Nov 2009
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When I decided to go with synthetic years ago I chose Amsoil ZRod. Been very satisfied with all their products. Bob
"it's only original once""
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lazy69ranch |
09-17-2014 @ 8:10 PM
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Member
Posts: 50
Joined: May 2012
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Ditto on the Amsoil ZROD 20/50.
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