Probably been discussed before, but wonder if someone would give their opinion on this:
Experience with older cars has taught me that modern (Synthetic/detergent) oils can be bad for older motors.
My SF2 has done about 35,000km, and the motor is un-opened.
Will modern oils with detergents etc be OK?
Should I consider going up in viscosity? (20/50 instead of 15/40).
Or does the legendary robustness of the Lav motor not warrant this?
Most engine oils have had detergents as an additive package since the 1970s. Back in the 1970s you would find non-detergent oils on the shelf..and the oil can (remember those?) would indicate non-detergent on the label. Most non-detergent engine oils were a 30w as I recall. The 20w50 oils were considered very avant guard and that is what Laverda recommended for warm weather. I don't remember a regular 20w50 non-detergent oil being sold. "Racing" engine oils were typically non-detergent and labeled as such, but not always. "Racing" oils were to be changed very often.
If you check the manufacturer of the oil you have been using over the years..unless the oil container says non-detergent you have been running oil with cleaners in it.
I use 15w40 and 20w50 depending on the climate..no problem.
