oil in winter
 

I have a 73 302
Right now I have 20W-50 oil in to reduce the knocking. I hear I should go lighter in the winter...What oil should I replace it with?

Re: oil in winter
 

I run 10W-40 year round...

Re: oil in winter
 

Whats knocking?? the oil may quieten it but sooner or later it's gonna stop doing anything!

Re: oil in winter
 

Valves, when in gear and slamming on the gas. The oil helped a little bit, but, I just don't put it up that high much anymore (daily driver)

Re: oil in winter
 

Perhaps adjusting the valves would help? I doubt using oil that thick is very easy on your engine in the winter...

Re: oil in winter
 

Are you sure you aren't discribing "Pinging"?

Re: oil in winter
 

What's the difference?

Re: oil in winter
 

Valve noise is a mechanical sound that usually comes from too much valve clearance. It is a steady "clicking" and can be heard more at lower RPM's.

"Pinging" on the other hand is also known as "Spark Knock". Which is the fuel/air charge in the combustion chamber firing off before the spark plug fires. It sounds more like marbles rattling around, and comes when the engine is loaded. Like when you said, "Valves, when in gear and slamming on the gas". That sounds more like preignition, "Pinging". Oil weight, make, etc. isn't going to effect that.

Lighter oil in the winter is so the engine will turn over easier in the AM. Depending on where you live and how low the temperture gets will determine that.

For instance, here in Orlando, FL we don't worry much about that. Usually doesn't get cold enough to effect the starting.

Re: oil in winter
 

Yeah...sounds more like pinging-the marble noise. How do I get that fixed?

Re: oil in winter
 

Retard the timing usually takes care of it. Or, run higher octane gas.