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HI-
Just got into the game with a 68 Olds Cutlass S convertible with the inline 6 cylinder engine. Not sure what fluids I should be using for this engine. I think 10W 30 is recc for the oil but not sure on brake fluid, the automatic trans fluid or what gasoline would run best.
Thanks for the info and the welcome! I put a picture in the album but can't seem to get one in my profile ;-( I just got the car a week ago and all seems to be running very well and its in beautiful shape. I'm an average mechanic ( brakes, oil changes, minor stuff) but never had an older engine. Also, the 6 cyl seems to be harder to get any info on, since it was a rarer choice than the V8's.
Heres some engine shots. Maybe you can answer ...the photo showing the reservoir on the top right of the engine..the cap( which is hard to read) looks like its say Auto Trans Fluid Use Type A....this seem like an odd spot for the trans fluid fill, since the lines running from it go down to the end of the steering column. Is the cap wrong? If so, I'm not sure where the power steering fill and the trans fluid fills are...
Yes, it's a Chevy 250. Power steering systems then used ATF. Trans fluid goes in the trans dipstick tube at the rear passenger side of the engine. The six is rare because it was unpopular when new. Good luck with it.
Yes, it's a Chevy 250. Power steering systems then used ATF. Trans fluid goes in the trans dipstick tube at the rear passenger side of the engine. The six is rare because it was unpopular when new. Good luck with it.
Thanks Joe! So use automatic transmission fluid for the power steering? Any particular grade and same ok for both power steering and trans?
Yes on the 6, but oddly the fact that only 410 were built this way is what drew me to it. Its got a new top, interior ( seats and carpet), tires, rims and suspension so nothing much to do to it ( for now). Its always nice to have a V8 but this one was so nice, inside and out, it just seemed right. ...and the shiny red certainly turns heads. I'm super happy with it but its a new learning curve for me with an older car. I feel my knowledge of newer cars needs to be double checked before I do things , especially to the engine. I appreciate the help!!
VERY nice car!!! The six cylinder makes it quite unique.
Yes to the 10W-30. I would prefer one rated for diesel use, look for a C rating in addition to the S on the bottle to gain some extra protection for the flat tappet camshaft. I would also consider adding some ZDDP to the oil.
Gasoline - Check top tier gasoline online. I use BP premium as it is convenient and fairly priced. Keep the tank full to reduce corrosion and add fuel stabilizer if it sits for long periods. Best practice is to drive it alot!!!
Your questions about what products, grades etc. will make a difference in how the car survives and performs.
68 olds Cutlass S inline 6 fluids questions
