Packard Forum Index » Studebaker Built Packards (1957 - 58)

Hi Guys,
I own a low mileage 1957 Packard Clipper,and would like to hear peoples input on which is a good motor oil to use.I've heard people talk about Shell Rotella.I'm anxious to hear what peole have to say.

thanks spfan

I run Shell Rotella in all three of my Packards. I've used it for over 23 years in my 400 that I drive a lot.

thanks Randy for the info,you have one cool car!!!
Bob

Quote:

Hey spfan - Since you mention it, we recommend Shell Rotella T Triple Protection 15W-40 or 10W-30 motor oil for your Packard. Both viscosities are rated for gasoline engines as well as diesel engines with an API CJ-4/SM rating. They are formulated with a higher amount of anti-wear package (zinc) which is ideal for muscle cars with high compression hot rod engines. This also applies if you're utilizing high profile camshafts with solid and flat tappet lifters. Hope this info helps! - The Shell Rotella Team

Chris Guerro Quote:

I read on another (High Performance) car board that Shell Rotella was reforulated and the zinc was mostly removed. Maybe that is true of the "standard" Shell Rotella, but not the Shell Rotella T Triple Protection 15W-40 or 10W-30 you recommend?

Craig

I have used Shell Rotella in my Packard and other cars going back to the 1960's with no issues whatsoever.

Another vote for Shell Rotella!
Use it in all my cars and truck.
Using it in my 57 Packard, with freshly rebuilt engine.

According to data I've seen published, the reduction in ZDDP for Rotella T from the prior CI-4 grade to the current CJ-4 grade was from about 1200 ppm to about 875 ppm. Given that Packards have such very low cam/tappet follower loadings it's really not of any consequence - engines of these types were quite long-lived even before the introduction of ZDDP into motor oils. So in my view it's like most all of the snake oils and cures in a bottle, "might help, can't hurt" situation. What can hurt though and even be destructive of your engine is to add more ZDDP to an oil that already contains it! Beyond some point more is NOT better!

I run Rotella in everything that I drive.