Tag Archive for: classic cars

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Can Synthetic ATF Be Used In Older Cars?

AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF A common question is whether synthetic ATF can be used in classic cars? Yes, synthetic automatic transmission fluid is certainly compatible with older transmissions. It can provide a nice performance and protection upgrade.

Synthetic ATF will have similar viscosity and frictional properties to conventional ATF. Make sure to purchase an ATF meeting the correct specification for your transmission (more on that below).

The additive package of modern ATF (whether conventional or synthetic) will be significant upgrade over previous generations of ATF.

Factors To Consider Before Changing Automatic Transmission Fluid In Older Cars

  • When changing ATF in any transmission, consider if the transmission may have significant deposits. If the transmission fluid hasn’t been changed in several years, performing a flush would be a good idea. We offer the superb AMSOIL Engine and Transmission Flush for this very task.
  • Is the transmission original or rebuilt? Is it functioning properly?
  • Are the seals in good shape? Should any leaky seals be replaced at this point?
  • Replace the pan gasket and transmission filter during this process.

Does Synthetic ATF Cause Leaks?

This is a common misconception. Synthetic ATF does not cause leaks. In fact, good synthetics like AMSOIL will condition seals and extend their lifespan.

Conventional ATF may have a thicker viscosity in cooler temperatures. Synthetic ATF has a fairly consistent viscosity across the temperature spectrum. This difference could potentially lead to more drips on the garage floor through leaky seals. Therefore, this factor is what could fuel the “synthetic ATF causes leaks” myth.

How To Choose The Correct ATF For Classic Cars

See our article “How To Find The Right ATF For Older Cars”. Or check out our online application guide. If you still have questions, contact us using the form on this page. Put your question in the “Questions or Comments” section.

In conclusion, modern synthetic ATF products are perfectly compatible with mechanically sound older transmissions. In fact, they can improve transmission performance and maximize wear protection.

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Which Motor Oil For Vintage Triumph TR-6?

A question from a reader: “Do you offer a motor oil for my 1976 Triumph TR-6?”

AMSOIL Z-ROD™ 10W-30 & 20W-50 Synthetic Motor Oil

AMSOIL Z-Rod Motor oils are the ideal choice for classic car engines.

Answer: For most classic cars such as your TR-6, the AMSOIL Z-ROD motor oil series is the logical choice.

First let’s discuss why a motor oil meeting the very latest industry specifications might not be the best choice for your car. Engine oils for today’s cars have to meet formulation guidelines in order to be compatible with modern emissions components. Today’s cars have numerous sensors throughout the engine and exhaust system that monitor operating conditions to keep emissions to a minimum. Anti-wear ingredients such as zinc and phosphorous can cause fits for these electronic sensors, so modern engine oil industry specifications place strict limitations on these additive levels. Don’t get us wrong, the latest oils do a spectacular job of fighting wear, but it requires that oil makers use high-end base oils and a very sophisticated approach to motor oil composition.

As theses constraints are not an issue with your Triumph, using an oil like Z-ROD that is designed for classic vehicles (and therefore is loaded with traditional anti-wear additives) is definitely the way to go.  A quick search shows that many TR-6 owners use 20W-50 and if that is indeed suitable for your car, then Z-ROD 20W-50 would be an outstanding candidate.

Also consider that vintage cars are generally not driven often and tend to spend much of the year in storage. Z-ROD contains a potent anti-rust/corrosion package for long-term storage, which would be an added bonus for your engine’s internals.

AMSOIL Z-ROD brings modern synthetic performance and anti-wear technology to the great cars of yesteryear and is an unbeatable motor oil selection in this case.

 

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