Engine oil differences

I noticed that the user manual for the Universal M40 in my 1984 E-38 calls for 10W40 motor oil. However, I noticed a half full bottle of 15W40 left over from the spring commissioning my marina did so I'm guessing that's what they used.

Should I worry? If I need to add more should I go with 10W40 or 15W40? Or should I drain all the oil and start over with a clean fill of 10W40?

Thanks,

Andy

I used 15W-40 on my last oil change on the recommendation of the guys at Tacoma Diesel. They work with Universal diesels all the time, so I trust their advice. Besides, detergents and other additives have changed in lubricants since the mid-1980's - so the manual may be "dated" now in terms of technology, etc.

I would ask a Universal dealer that you're comfortable with. The guys at http://www.marinedieseldirect.com - the address you gave me before (I believe) are pretty good (I've started buying parts from them) - check with them...

//sse

Sean,

That's exactly what I did. Here is their response:


>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

Hello Andy,

Thank you very much for the kind words. We enjoy the feedback.

This is the owner's manual for the M12,15,18,20,25,25XP,35,40, and 50 http://shop.marinedieseldirect.com/cgi-bin/universal/200157.html (it will say that this the operator's manual for the M-50, but it is the owner's manual for the listed engines above)

This is the parts manual for your M-40, it will give you the associated part# you are looking for http://shop.marinedieseldirect.com/cgi-bin/universal/200146.html

We use Quaker State 15W40 for our oil changes. You will be OK with using this oil.

I hope this helps and please let me know if there is anything else I can do.

Have a good weekend.
Kind Regards,

Chris Anderson