best diesel motor oil for a MEP-802A ? Climate range 10 to 80 degrees

[Ray70]

Looks like several guys beat me to the punch, but as I was reading my response was going to be Buy whatever is on sale! I've used them all. Rotella, Delco, Delvac, Tractor Supply's "Traveler" line, ( just got 2 gl. of Traveler for $17 on special ! ) even the Wally world's Super Tec. oil. ( supposedly made by mobil ) As long as you use 15/40 diesel you're good.
I would hold off on the synthetic until after 100 hrs. but that's just my opinion.
Now... You guys ( starting with RustyStud ) also have the flat tappet and Zinc comments spot on. Every machine I've gotten with under 100 hrs has always gotten a little bottle of ZDDP Maxx which I get in a 12pk. deal on FleaBay. Engine builders all recommend break in oil like John Deere ( which has added zinc ) to help break in the cam and lifters. I found it cheaper to just buy the additive and throw it into conventional oil.
Oriley's and other auto parts stores also carry larger bottles of Lucas Zinc additive, but it is much more expensive than ZDDP Maxx is on-line and you only need to use it for 1 oil change.

 

[Light in the Dark]

If you care to share, PM me that ebay bundle offer link on the ZDDP Ray? Thanks

 

[Ray70]

Sure any time, PM sent... For others, looks like this "working from home" thing is melting my brain. It was a 10 pack of ZDDPlus for $83.

ZDDPlus ZDDP Engine Oil Additive Restores Zinc Every Oil Change 10 Pack Discount | eBay

ZDDPlus is not a typical oil additive. It is compatible with all conventional and synthetic oils intended for automotive use. By adding a small 4 ounce bottle of it at every oil change, an adequate amount of Zinc and Phosphorus will continue to protect your engine.

www.ebay.com

Plenty of other sellers out there, but this is one of the better prices.
Search ZDDP additive for more options and qty.

 

[Daybreak]

Howdy,
As building engines for years. The other aspect of break-in oil is Non-Detergent oil. You do want the oil build up and such during break-in. So much so, that we would get straight 30w non-detergent oil for break-in oil. That is why the John Deere break-in oil is pretty good to start with. It is a non-detergent oil with additives in it.
After break-in, whatever diesel oil you find cheap. The lower US will be fine with 15w-40 diesel oil. Upper sections and Canada, the climate will dictate which oil weight to use.

 

[wbuhrman]

What are the thoughts of using synthetic 5W-40 oil instead of 15W-40? In my area, Shell Rotella T6 5W-40 is more readily available than the T6 in 15W-40. Thanks to all for a great thread!

 

[Light in the Dark]

It all depends on climate. To me, with the service interval required... any weight should be obtainable in such small quantities for civilian use. Its not like you are keeping a fleet operational. You don't get very harsh winters in MD, so you do have leeway in what you run.

If the engine is properly broken in, run what makes you feel good. Juts make sure its diesel rated.

 

[Zed254]

Check the Lube Order: https://www.steelsoldiers.com/attachments/lo-9-6115-642-12-pdf.716274/

Hmmmm.....I posted the LO for the MEP-803A.

MEP-802A here........ https://www.steelsoldiers.com/attachments/5kw-mep802-tqg-9-6115-641-12lo-pdf.601960/