I am looking to change the oil on my 88 Iroc-Z. has 76k miles and has always been garage kept and very well maintained. Previous owner changed all fluids before i got it and i think i want to change the oil/filter. its been hanging around for 6 months and i only drove it twice.

i might consider changing the fluid in the T-5 too.

What engine oil/filter would you guys recommend to use? And how often should i change it on a car i barely drive? SHould i stick with a full synthetic - mobil 1, amsoil, joe gibbs? im not worred if one type costs a few bucks more per bottle if the performance of the oil is worth it. and i dont drive too much so it may not make a difference at all other than if it breaks down sooner or later and how well things stay lubricated.

 

I wouldnt really consider that low mileage. It's lower than average, but you're in the range whereI 'd put some synthetic 10w-30 in it and call it a day.

 

Yea I mean relatively low for year. I can almost guarantee there isn't another car with this many miles in the same conditionthats original. Everything still looks like it's from the dealership. So makes it seem like low mileage even more.

Thanks for the input.

 

In a 2.8, I use Brad Penn "Grade 1" 10w30. I'd do the same in a 305.
This has a more traditional level of ZDP content (Zinc, Phosphorus antiwear compound) which is more needed on older flat tappet pushrod engines. Mainstream API SM/SN rated oil has reduced this to protect catalytic converters.

This is a controversial subject, many say it's not an issue. If you aren't familiar with it, a search for "ZDP" or "ZDDP" will turn up more debate then you'd ever want to read.

 

ZDDP isn't an issue in his roller cam 88.

 

True but it's still a good idea to have it. As far as synthetic goes, if it hasn't been run in the car you may find leaks that you didn't have with Dino oil. I use Valvoline VR1 oil in my older motors since it's easy to get at autozone and they don't over charge for it. Napa's can usually order it too. It is available in 20w50 and 10w30

 

I believe it has synthetic in it from previous owner. I was planning to go with Amsoil 5W-30 full synthetic. They have normal change interval of 25k mi or 1 year. Since i rarely drive the car im not worried about mileage but i'd just change the oil every year.

 

ZDDP also helps protect cylinder walls against scuffing, and bearing wear in older engines, roller or flat tappet with more journal/bearing clearance.