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About Vern Bullock
Expertise
Visit my website at: http://www.classytransportation.com/ I can answer most questions about autos built in the 60's 70's and 80's. Specifically, Lincolns, Rolls Royces and the Excaliburs. Mechanical issues and technical questions are my expertise. I also have a general knowledge of most older automobiles. Keep in mind, I can only provide answers if the questions are very specific and complete. Without details, I can only speculate and that's not good for solving your problem.

Experience
I have owned and maintained Silver Shadows for over 10 years now. I find most mechanics and even Rolls Royce mechanics have very little knowledge about these automobiles. I have researched these cars in quite a bit of detail and can pretty much tell you what is wrong, if you can describe the behavior in detail. I have saved quite a few RR owners a lot of money and aggravation due to improper diagnosis. I am the owner of Classy Transportation, LLC a luxury limousine service specializing in antique cars, classic cars, vintage cars and exotic cars.

Organizations
Classy Transportation, LLC Limousine Service. A Touch Of Class Limousine Service. Blue Diamond Limousine Service. Capital City Sedan Limousine Service.

Publications
All around the Internet

Education/Credentials
I hold a BS degree in computer science and a MS degree in mechanical engineering.

Awards and Honors
I regularly compete at car shows and average around a dozen awards annually.

Past/Present Clients
See Web site at: http://www.classytransportation.com/

You are here: Experts > Shopping > Vintage Cars > Classic/Antique Car Repair > Motor Oil

Classic/Antique Car Repair - Motor Oil

Expert: Vern Bullock - 11/7/2009

Question
Mr. Bullock,

My question pertains to motor oil, and specifically old, never used oil. After my dad passed away I was cleaning out his garage and found 2 cases of Castroil GTX motor oil, one case was 10W-40, and the other 20W-50. I know this oil is at least 10 years old, and probably a lot older than that.

Does motor oil have an expiration date? These cases are unopened so I would like to either sell them or use them, but I really don't think I could use the 20W-50.

What is your opinion?

Thanks,
Gary in WV

Answer
Hi Gary:
Most oil companies recommend the shelf life of oil to be 5 years.
However, a lot depends on the storage environment. In a controlled
storage where the temperature and humidity remains constant, oil can last
indefinitely. However, the changing conditions in a standard garage
over many years and seasons will cause the oil to eventually break down.

If it was kept in a standard garage under the changing conditions of winters,
summers, snow and rain, it's a pretty good guess it is bad, but the only way
to know for sure is to open it. You will most likely find the 20W-50 in better
condition than the 10W-40, because it can withstand a higher degree of heat and cold.

Even if it looked good, you wouldn't want to trust it in your car engine,
but maybe an old lawn mower.

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