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Caught this in a FB discussion. I hadn't thought about any of this before. At the same time I imagine that I could keep changing oil with full synthetic 10W30 like I have been for decades and not have a problem, right? (or 5W30 on the 3.6VVT) (or straight 30W for the really old cars) (etc.)

Anyways it got me thinking and wondering y'all's thoughts on the issue:

Quote:

The EPA removed zinc from standard oil in the mid 90s for environmental reasons, all modern cars went to roller lifers on the cams or over head cams so it didn't effect them but flat tappet cams need the zinc (kinda like what happened when they took the lead out of gas) diesel engine need the zinc so the oil still has it but it is slowly being reduced. You can find zinc additives at auto part stores right next to the lead fuel additives

I figure I have another four or five decades worth of oil changing to do. After that, I don't want my kids to have to think "If only dad knew he should have used the zinc additives I wouldn't have to overhaul this engine when I'd rather be warping to Neptune for the weekend."

When I hear the words Zinc, I think it is time to inspect them on the boat..LOL..

Here is some really great information!
https://www.hemmings.com/blog/2012/1...older-engines/

Quote:

Originally Posted by Soft Ride (Post 1627276)

When I hear the words Zinc, I think it is time to inspect them on the boat..LOL..

Here is some really great information!
https://www.hemmings.com/blog/2012/1...older-engines/

Wow thanks Soft Ride! That's a lot of good information. Now I know my 1985 C30 that still works for a living need a vitamin supplement to keep its lifters and cam happy. And the older cars as well, when I get around to working on them.