GTiRlover said:
I am using a 10w60 fully synthetic oil in my car (Pulsar GTiR) and my main question is how long should I leave it before I can start driving enthusiastically? I know the 10w60 oil is thicker than a 10w50 alternative so is it advisable to allow for this and let the oil warm up for longer than the 10w50?
Also what are your thoughts about letting the car idle for a few minutes before driving off to allow the oil to circulate the engine properly? Is it necessary or am I just wasting petrol?!
Thanks
The 10w60 is only thicker at higher temperatures, not from cold. That's the '10' part of the oil viscosity.
In my opinion, you should let the oil get to at least 70 degrees C before you start extending the engine through the rpm range and, putting it under high load levels.
I don't use any boost or extend the engine above 3k rpm until the engine oil is at least 70 degrees C. I've done that with every car I own and with the Pulsar for around 6 years. It doesn't use any oil now or ever and the top and bottom end are no noisier than when I bought the car, 57k miles ago.
As for leaving the car idling, you're wasting petrol. Oil pressure should build almost as soon as the car starts. That and the right oil for the car and climate it's used in, along with being gentle with it, until the oil is at least warm, will be more than enough to preserve the engine.
The engine designer would also have designed it, with cold starts etc.. in mind.
Another thing to consider if you do let the car idle, to build oil temp, is that the gearbox, transfer box and rear diff oil will not get up to temp, with the car stationary.
All those parts will be taking high levels of load when you put your foot down and will also need the oil up to temperature, to have maximum protection and service life !
Just my 2 cents....
Paul
P.s. Just to add, I'll be switching to a 5w40 at the next oil change, for the better cold start protection. My oil has never been over 110 degrees C so, I don't need the extended temp range of the 10w50. Although, I'm sure the 5w40 will offer good protection up to and slightly beyond 130 degrees C.