? about changing to synthetic oil

[PLS-Tx]

We have a Vanguard Big Block 30hp and a 32hp.

The 30hp has about 150 hrs and the 32hp a bit over 300 hrs.

I have been using Pennzoil HD 30 since they were new. Thinking of changing Mobil 1 10W-30.

Would you change to Mobil 1 or stay with Pennzoil?

[Cleve]

Yes.
But really there is no simple answer to that. I've used synthetic since the late 70s in my vehicles and anything else I have with a motor. If you can afford the extra expense, then no question. I always try to do whatever is best for my mechanical "toys". I also used to wait for several oil changes before changing but now go ahead to do it on the first change. Notice that some auto mfg. companies even put synthetic in the new cars. All my equipment has synthetic even in the gearboxes.
I spent 37 years in a company where I managed equipment with gearboxes the size of a small truck and know for a fact that changing to a synthetic lube would drop the amp loads and cause the gearbox to run much cooler.
By the way, I usually use the Mobil 1 10w-30 in most of my small engines. In my Chevrolet diesel pickup and Walker diesel I go for the Turbo-diesel 15w-40.

[TLS]

I've run Mobil-1 10w-30 for years in my equipment with no issues.

I then read about Mobil-1 changing things and it's ratings dropped.

I switched over to German Castrol 0w-30 and noticed quieter engine noises.

Last month I bought a case of Amsoil Synthetic HD30/10W-30 specifically engineered for A/C small equipment engines. This stuff REALLY quiets the engine down. Runs great and uses no oil (was getting a little usage with the Mobil-1).

http://www.amsoil.com/storefront/ase.aspx

[Cleve]

Amsoil is great. I tried it in my Chevy diesel and car for a while. Only problem I have is availability. I decided I'm not going to use something I have to order and have shipped in. Rather be able to pickup local.

[TLS]

I agree! Like their products, don't like the pyramid scheme sales.

They would be HUGE if they just sold it at auto parts stores.

[Bajany]

I switched to the Amsoil ASE this past spring. I just order it by the case from the shop that does the mechanical work on my road vehicles. He adds my order to to his when he orders from the distributor then just gives me a call when it comes in. I always have enough on the shelf to do my regular maintenance and order when I see the need for more on the next round of services.
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[Cleve]

O.K. when you have an easy way to get the Amsoil, but I have to depend on having it shipped to me.
I now just wait until Autozone or Advance have one of their sales where I can get 5 qts. of Mobil 1 and any filter for around $30. That way I get about $55-$60 worth of oil and filter for $30. The filter for the Duramax can get expensive otherwise. I think I've got 35+ qts. of oil and 5 or 6 filters on hand right now from these sales.