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Rotella T 15w-40: OIL Q's

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Old 01-20-2011, 07:37 AM
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Default Rotella T 15w-40: OIL Q's

I am putting an ls1 together, using a tsp ported and shimmed pump and going to modify the rear cover for some extra flow across the rear. I am planning on running Rotella 15w-40. I searched rotella and read a few threads where people said they were running it but i think there were only 2-3 people. I have used this oil in many import builds in the past with great success. I spun my wrx to 8800 rpm and spun both my d series and b series civics to 9500 on this oil and never had a bearing failure. I know about letting the car idle for a couple minutes before jumping on it. I also plan on over filling the car with oil. I have also done this in the past, not an excessive amount. I will determine the amount after i research a few things. My wrx called for 4.7 quarts and i ran 7.5 in it. My engine builder had done/figured out that with 7-7.5 quarts right after start up the oil level would drop just below the crankshaft.

If all this sounds stupid, please tell me, just because it has worked in previous builds on different cars doesnt mean anything. I will not take offence to anything just help set me straight, this is my first v8 build. I am not looking for crazy rpms, 7000 at the high end on this engine.

Other info, it is a 1998 block. Thinking about modifying the oil drain back areas. And again, ported and shimmed pump. Arp rod bolts also.

Thanks in advance.
Old 01-20-2011, 07:56 AM
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Clearances will need to be set for the oil weight.
You can't run a lot of extra oil in the sump on a V8.
Check out chevelles.com performance board stickies on oil.
Lots of independent testing paid for by a board member.
All CD rated oils have reduced additives....
Old 01-20-2011, 09:13 AM
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I used that oil in Diesel motors, I thought it was a diesel oil.
Old 01-20-2011, 12:21 PM
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I used that oil in my high mileage 1998 Buick Regal GS. No problems. I run 5W-40 in my Camaro currently.
Old 01-20-2011, 12:38 PM
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RotellaT is the s*it period!! Ive ran it in everything from ATV's to diesel trucks.I use it in my built 6.0L currently with all stock clearances with a high volume pump and low pressure spring and still make 80psi @ WOT
Old 01-20-2011, 12:46 PM
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Rotella is a deisel oil. Do a little research on oils and their ratings and you will see whats best for your vehicle. The ratings are there for a reason and although it may not damage anything visibly, only a oil analysis can tell you its impact. The thicker the oil is not always better, although it may help reduce oil leaks. I love Rotella no doubt but I think you should look into a little more. Check out bobistheoilguy. Its a website that has tons of used oil analysis' and alot of informed people that can point you in the right direction.

As for overfilling it, I dont see how that would help anything but I cant argue against it as I havnt done any research to back any claims.

Hope that site helps and good luck!
Old 01-20-2011, 01:56 PM
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That is getting heavy in weigh for stock clearenced LS motors. Some run that oil because they have turbos, and also because it is supposed to contain zinc.
Old 01-20-2011, 02:06 PM
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Run 0w40 if you really want to run such a thick oil.
Old 01-20-2011, 02:19 PM
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Originally Posted by burntblkZ
RotellaT is the s*it period!! Ive ran it in everything from ATV's to diesel trucks.I use it in my built 6.0L currently with all stock clearances with a high volume pump and low pressure spring and still make 80psi @ WOT
Wow
Old 01-20-2011, 03:01 PM
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my engine builder recomended rotella 15-40 due to the large clearances of my eagle crank. i havnt had a problem with it and will continue to use it
Old 01-20-2011, 03:10 PM
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We have used it in plenty of 1000+hp engines with no ill affects. It really is great oil!
Old 01-20-2011, 03:14 PM
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If its a built motor I recommend it as do many other people. Yes it's for trucks but is good for any high load ,high temp. apps. I switched to it on this build. Several turbo guys I know also run it. I used to always run a 1/2 quart or more over the fill line. These motors pump alot of oil to the top. Road race guys always run over filled. I don't any more because I have an oil cooler. With it and the lines I have an extra volume of oil.
Old 01-20-2011, 03:19 PM
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I believe thats the oil TSP recommends to run while breaking in one of their SBs.
Old 01-20-2011, 03:23 PM
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Originally Posted by NC98Z
I believe thats the oil TSP recommends to run while breaking in one of their SBs.
they send you joe gibbs break in oil.



Ive thought about the rotella before. One of my EVO buddies in makein 800 wheel and swears by the stuff
Old 01-20-2011, 03:56 PM
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This was one of the oils my builder recommended but the bearings were clearanced to work with a heavier oil.
Old 01-20-2011, 04:44 PM
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I am def going to run this oil. Thanks a ton guys. Might mention it to my builder and see if he thinks we need extra clearance.

Again...Thanks for those with experience who replied.
Old 01-20-2011, 05:11 PM
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I have herd that most diesel oils don't have zinc any more.valvoline racing oil mite be good for break in also.comp cams has a break in oil.



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