Datsun Roadster Forum-311s.org

Just wondering if my 1969 2000 could use synthetic oil? It is not a daily driver and I change oil every 4 months. I start it and let it run a bit weekly.

Proud to have been awarded best import at the West Georgia AACA show this spring.

I've run synthetic in mine for nearly 20 years. 15-50, 20-50, and more recently, 10-60. It works great.

Will

Welcome! Lots of debate over this topic. My answer is, "it depends". Is it an original engine? Has it been completely rebuilt, modified, major component change etc.? The biggest question/concern seems to come down to the amount of Zinc or ZDDP concentrations are available. Flat tappet, older cams were built in a time where these levels were higher than current oils. There are Synthetic and other modern oils that meet this requirement. That said, I have rebuilt the engine in my H20, and used synthetic oil since right after I used the break in oil (Brad Penn, Dino Oil) with no ill effects. YMMV and I think you'll find that no three people will agree on any one approach

I'm going Valvoline VR1, 10/30. Used to run 20/50 and 15/45, but after reading all the oil posts here decided to go 10/30 and it has not been a problem.

Will, What are your reasons for such hi viscosity oil? 10/60

I like synthetic also. If the engine is healthy and doesn't have excessive leaks synthetic works well. Currently running 5w50. Do a search here and you will find good recommendations.

Since you start the vehicle weekly I would suggest a 5w-XX or 10w-XX oil, cold starts are arguably where most wear occurs, you want an oil that flows well at ambient temp. (Remember that in the world of oil, cold can also be a 90 degree day) I could keep going on this subject, but as mentioned before no 3 people have the same opinion and a lot of oil talk is unfortunately based on opinion and myths.