Engine Oil

[6277]

Been using Aeroshell 15-50. Now I see that Phillips 20-50 is a lot cheaper. Any thoughts? I live in Michigan and do fly all winter.

[6643]

We try to avoid political and religious discussions on this board.

That said, I've been using Phillips for years. No complaints. In some engines the Shell product seems to increase consumption. (IMHO...)

[6298]

I switched to Phillips 20/50 XC several years ago and find it to be excellent in our engines from break-in to TBO.

[2066]

Also switched to Phillips 20+ years ago -- slightly less consumption and much less of a "loss of prime" issue (than with Shell multi) with my engine prior to OH (...oil pump was getting a little loose @ 2700+ SMOH). I normally pick up year's supply on special price @ SNF. And, as Randy points out, it's good for break-in and, then, "forever". Excellent Av oil regardless of price, but lower price is good! IMO. Mac

[6277]

Thanks guys, one case of Phillips on order.

[V529]

We run Phillips XC20W-50 exclusively in our fight school aircraft and our fleet of Cessna 414A's (and many customer aircraft, and my own 120).

Phillips is true "dead dinosaur juice" and the additives seem to agree well with our little ol aircooled engines. You will be satisfied. Most of the other brands are either semi synthetic or synthetic. (straight weight Aeroshell should be pure petroleum, just with a different additive set though)

We do use Aeroshell and Exxon Elite in customer aircraft as requested. I don't see too much issue with those oils.

Regular engine use and regular engine changes are probably more important than the oil though.
You may want to consider cam guard if you store the airplane in the winter for added corrosion protection.

[6277]

Thanks Victor, the landing gear leg you sold me years ago hasn't failed yet!