Rover Sports Register Forum

Hi Chaps,
The subject line should say ‘oils ain't what they used to be’ but thought I would use the catch phrase from an old Ozzy commercial for my question.

I’m getting to the stage of the Rover special build where I’m shortly going to start filling the back axel, steering box, gearbox and engine with oil.

So far I have been advice to use Penrite, Castrol, and Shell helix. And one that’s made by a small company in UK (forgot the name but do know I will have to sell my granddaughter to buy it. Actually that’s not a bad idea might get enough money to finish the car).
Anyway what would the world of Rover people have to suggest on what to use?

Forgot to say it’s for a 1946 car with a 47 16HP engine and gearbox.



Kind Regards.
Den Gallacher

I have used Comma EP90 GL4 spec for years but if I had rebuilt the components I would use the best classic grade mineral possible. It really depend though how the car is to be used as to miles and speeds as even these degrade after time just standing

I have used both Penrite and Castrol Classic in both our MGB and Rovers without any problems, the Castrol can looks better...thats about all.

If its any help, My Kitcher's engine is lubricated with a fairly basic 20w50 multigtrade, although a straight SAE30 is the recommendation in the handbook - (Lawnmower oil from a farm supplier?), this is also OK in the Gearbox. The Back axle EP90, The steering box uses Penrite steering box lubricant - a semi fluid grease as the original seals are prone to leak.

Hope this helps

Mike

I put SAE20/50 multigrade in the engine of my 1935 12hp s/s, and SAE40 in the gearbox and back axle. My local vintage tractor parts dealer (The Old 20 Parts Company) supplies Exol brand in 25 litre plastic containers for about £40. It seems to be of excellent quality, and for part of its manufacturing cycle is transported by canal!
With these old cars with primitive filtering arrangements it is important to change the oil frequently. And present day oils are of far better quality than those available when our cars were built. IMHO expensive specialised oils for classic cars are a con!

Penrite gets my vote

Hi I was under the ipression that EP90 was a no, no for the axle as the sulphur in these modern oils are not compatable with the bushes/bearings ? were the post war cars improved in regard to materials in the axle? I use SAE 40 in my 1935 12.