Diesel Engine - Oil Recommendations
Number: 83-I-31Section: VI
Date: Dec., 1982
Subject: ENGINE OIL RECOMMENDATIONS FOR CHEVROLET PASSENGER VEHICLES WITH DIESEL ENGINES
TO: ALL CHEVROLET DEALERS
SAE GRADE OIL LABEL:
The best lubricating oil you can use in diesel engines is SAE 30 SF/CD; however, SAE 30 SF/CC quality is acceptable. These oils combine excellent film strength with the best available additive package to prevent wear and protect against piston ring sticking at higher mileages. DO NOT USE SAE 10W-40 oils in diesel engines because most of them can cause piston ring sticking and engine damage.
SAE 30 SF/CD and SF/CC oils are generally not suitable when temperatures fall below 32~F because of cold starting considerations. The use of SAE 15W-40 SF/CD or SF/CC at these lower temperatures (and in extremely cold areas SAE 10W-30 SF/CD or SF/CC) may be necessary. Study the following chart carefully and follow its recommendations. As always, NEVER exceed the recommended oil change intervals since oil quality deteriorate rapidly with mileage, as carbon accumulates in the oil.