I have a 97 Disco 1 with about 78000 miles on it. I want switch to a synthetic blend motor oil. I purchased Valvoline 20w 50 synthetic blend for engine with 75,000 miles or more... when I change my oil. Would I be damaging my engine if I switch from conventional motor oil to a blend?

THanks.

chrisusvi

 

Replace the filter and run cheap synthetic for 100 miles or so, drain and change the filter then fill with a good synthetic oil. This will hopefully clean out most of the sludge.


Some people say that synthetics will eat away at seals.

Another issue, people say is that your seals/gaskets/etc. will be coated with sludge, and that sludge may be sealing everything, if it is cleaned then they may not seal properly.

Both issues have been contested however... i'm sure people will interject their opinions.

 

IMHO, 20W50 seems kinda thick... especially for winter. Where do you live??

Eric

 

to answer your question simply,,

no it will not hurt the engine

 

Chris, where do you live, how cold does it get in the morning?
As for how fast synthetic oil cleans out an engine, it is over a period of months if not years and many 1000's of miles, not in 100 miles.

 

I live on St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands. (tropical climate year round)

 

10W/40 or 20W/50 will work well there.

 

Chrisusvi,

I am on St. Croix.... I run 10w30 Mobil Syn. PM me.