Oil question - don't shoot me..!!

[Smiffo]

Afternoon / evening ( It's that time of day )

I need to top my engine oil up a bit, after checking it today.
Problem is, I usually rely on a garage to do it. In my attempt at making sure I used the same oil etc as the last service, I gave the garage a little tinkle...

I was only after the brand etc really, but his answer surprised me:

"10/40"

Now.
I know after reading the WIKI that the recommendation here is to use 15/40.

So, my question is simples:

Can I just top up with 15/40 knowing it has 10/40 in there already?
And lastly, is there any real significance to there being only 10/40 for the best part of a year ( at least? )

I know there have been many oil questions - but this one is a little different, I think.
( Or not..... Incoming..!! )

[R0B]

Just top up with what's already in there 10/40

[Smiffo]

Just top up with what's already in there 10/40

Cheers Rob.

Without wanting to drag up people's preferences.
Do you suggest that because 10/40 is already in there, or because that is a perfectly good oil to use?

Cheers.
Steve.

[R0B]

I have been using 10/40 for years with no problems.

[Smiffo]

Cheers Rob

[CovKid]

You can use oil thats not quite 'by the book' providing its not too far. The WIKI just gives the recommended grade. I used to use Shell Rimula (a diesel oil) in my Beetle and had no probs.

[Smiffo]

You can use oil thats not quite 'by the book' providing its not too far. The WIKI just gives the recommended grade. I used to use Shell Rimula (a diesel oil) in my Beetle and had no probs.

Appreciate the reply CovKid.

[California Dreamin]

Nothing wrong with 10W40 if you don't suffer from 'tappet drain down' or oil leaks. If your one of the lucky ones then stick with this grade.

Martin

[Smiffo]

Nothing wrong with 10W40 if you don't suffer from 'tappet drain down' or oil leaks. If your one of the lucky ones then stick with this grade.

Martin

Hi Martin.

No oil leeks, but `tappet drain down` sounds like the human equivalent of Ebola..!!
What is it?

I'm not concerned I have it - - but wonder what it is.

[R0B]

When left standing the hydraulic tappets drain their oil.When you start your engine it makes a loud tapping sound,this clears after a 15 to 20 minute drive once the tappets have refilled.

[300CE]

I've used 10/40 without problem, although just used 20/50 Valvoline VR1 for my recent change (6 monthly).

[California Dreamin]

Nothing wrong with 10W40 if you don't suffer from 'tappet drain down' or oil leaks. If your one of the lucky ones then stick with this grade.

Martin

Hi Martin.

No oil leeks, but `tappet drain down` sounds like the human equivalent of Ebola..!!
What is it?

I'm not concerned I have it - - but wonder what it is.

As Rob says ... just depends on whether your particular lump (engine) suffers from this affliction as many do when thinner 10W40 oil (from cold) is used.
If your rarely have this issue then this grade is good for you.


Martin

[ghost123uk]

Can I just top up with 15/40 knowing it has 10/40 in there already?

Come on guys, answer the question

Like:-

You can use oil that's not quite 'by the book' providing its not too far.

Taking it then that it is OK to top up with 15/40 if 10/40 is what's in there?

Does everyone agree? (I do, as long as both are the same chemistry of course, ie Synth or non Synth)

[marlinowner]

Mixing mineral/semi/synth won't do any harm either. Castrol R is a no-no though.

[ghost123uk]

Mixing mineral/semi/synth won't do any harm either

Oh, I didn't know that, but on checking (sorry!) you are correct (of course )