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Subject:Re: Should I trash the Quaker State oil?
From:Shawn & Janis Wright
Date:Sun, 20 Apr 1997 13:57:57 -0800

> I recently ran up on a deal and picked up a case of  Q.S. 10W30 
> Synthetic Blend for 4X4's.  I think it was 75cents a quart so I 
> grabbed some up thinking, just maybe, it might be all right to use in
> my Vanagon.  After the lengthy discussion 3 or 4 months ago about
> oils, I tried to remember what was said about the different synthetic
> blends, but don't remember the Q.S. ever being mentioned.  I have
> ALWAYS used Castrol in my VW's and am willing to give this oil to my
> brother for his Ranger but since this stuff is usually rather
> expensive, I was hoping I could use this at my next oil change IF it
> wouldn't hurt my engine.
> 
You don't say what weight Castrol you've been using. If it's 10w30, 
you'll probably be fine with the QS. If you've been running 15w40 or 
20w50 Castrol, it is *very* likely you will encounter oil pressure 
problems with the 10w30, especially with a higher mileage engine.

The common view seems to be that the weight/grade of the oil 
(matched to ambient temp) is far more important than Castrol vs 
Quaker vs Pennzoil.

I for one have had problems with any 10w30 oil in several VWs, 
especially if used with a FRAM filter.

Shawn & Janis Wright
'88 Westy (338k) '85 Jetta TD (375k)
VWnut@smus.bc.ca  :  swright@smus.bc.ca
http://www.islandnet.com/~swright/vw.html
http://www.smus.bc.ca