Re: IML: Anybody have a '64-'66 Owners manual?

Most modern multi-vis detergent oil will fulfill the requirements for a 60's Imperial. Depending on climate, thinner in the winter and thicker in the summer if the seasons are pronounced. Older engines can benefit from thicker oils, but remember, the most wear happens when you start the car. That is when the lubrication is least, and thicker oil can take longer to travel to the parts. Take it easy until warm.

The specifications were written for cars being driven as regular transportation, and when they were new. Neither one of those conditions is usually the case today. Cars that are seldom driven require much different maintenance than those in regular use. One of the differences is more frequent oil changes, which is why I think synthetic oil is a waste of money in an old car. Crankcase ventilation was not what it is today. This means that more impurities linger around and mix with the oil, especially on cars driven very little. Leaving any oil in the engine for an extended period is like pouring a handful of dirt down the filler before starting the engine. This is much worse for cars showing wear with some blow by. Moisture and blow by gases combine with oil to make acid. This ruins polished metal and bearing surfaces. Since one of the primary benefits of synthetics is longevity, that benefit is cancelled out on cars that don't get driven enough.

Here in Washington, I use 10w-30 Penzoil in my cars year 'round. Two of them have what I call tired engines, so I use 20w-40 in them. I also change the oil annually (not often enough) or every 1,500 miles which ever comes first. My problem is that I have a lot of cars, so this is about the best that I can do. I don't start any of my cars unless I also plan to drive them someplace. Running in the garage is both dangerous and tough on older engines. They need to be driven to stay running.

Just curious, I wonder if anybody here could take a look at their owners manual and let me know what Chrysler corp recommended when it came to the type of oil to put in the car.. brand and which type. I don't know if they ever changed, but specifically '64 through '66.

I'd just like to know out of curiosity, and to see if that particular brand also sells a lead additive, to see how much it would cost. I'm somewhat of a purist so I'd probably use whatever Chrysler wanted the buyer to use.

And, I'm sure synthetic is not REQUIRED, but would that be better oil to use? Any advantage? I know it's designed for sports cars, but if it would run smoother and/or make the engine last longer etc, I'd use it for sure.

Thanks
-Matt

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