So far as changing brands, types, weights of oils, owner's manuals for most cars used to say it is fine, even to top off with a different brand.  My Volkswagen Vanagon GL Campmobile owner's book says it is fine to mix two different weights of oil, depending on conditions.  However, more recently, owner's manuals seem to recommend the oil that dealers for that car sell, usually a car company branded oil.  That's just to keep you buying from them, not because it is better for the car.

mcneely

---- James Felder <jim.felder@GMAIL.COM> wrote:
> A gasser Vanagon should be using Castrol 20w50.
>
> Jim
>
> On May 26, 2013, at 4:40 PM, walkingboss <walkingboss@COMMUNICOMM.COM> wrote:
>
> > Hi Jim,
> >
> >   Most people don't  advise changing brands/types, or weights, etc of oil.
> > I for one don't see a problem changing, Use the right weight for your
> > climate, maybe changing weights from summer to winter if your area has a big
> > seasonal swing. So would I change, yes I would change. Simple because of the
> > cost factor! Also synthetic oils are thinner and will find a way to leak
> > where as dyno-oils have a better chance of staying put. Again this is just
> > my opinion, take it with a grain of salt!
> >   You know this is going to start a major flame war! So just do the leg
> > work and make up your own mind
> >
> > Howard
> >
> > Subject: [VANAGON] Engine Oil Question
> >
> >
> >> My 85 Westy came with Mobil 1 in it.  Should I stay with Mobil 1?  is this
> >> overkill?  Are there better alternatives?

--
David McNeely