Which Shell Rimula Multigrade oil for KAD32 engines?

oGaryo

oGaryo

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Last season I put Shell Rimula RT4 into the engines as recommended on the forum but this season, that oil has been discontinued and replaced with Rimula RT4X which combines a number of their old products into one, including the RT4 oil. RT4 was Volvo VDS3 compliant as is RT4X but there's another product that is 'low saps' and VDS3 (and VDS4) compliant, that is Shell Rimula RT4L.

The KAD32 manual shows the engines require this spec: Oil grade .............. VDS–2, ACEA E5, API CH–4

Here's the spec for RT4X: https://www.oilsandstuff.com/sites/default/files/Rimula RT4X TDS.pdf


Here's the spec for RT4L: http://www.epc.shell.com/docs/GPCDO...ll_Rimula_RT4_L_15W-40_(CJ-4)_(en-GB)_TDS.pdf


Both exceed the Volvo requirement for the KAD32 so I guess the only remaining question is whether the low saps in the RT4L will give any benefit or indeed, could it actually be detrimental to the old KAD32 engines? I know it's primarily been developed for low emissions engines to protect cat converters and the like but it does state in the PDF's that is is suitable for both modern and older engines so on the face of it, it should be ok.

Can someone in the know advise please? what should I go for? both are similarly priced.

thanks
 
I've been using Rimula RT4X as well. My engines are older Volvo MD61A but they run very smooth and clean with this oil. I think the RT4X superseded the oil you have used! Can't be certain!
 
npf1 said:
Care to explain why?
Click to expand...

Most low-ash oils are designed for engines with DPF's running on ultra low sulphur diesel.
Boats don't have diesel particulate filters, and marine diesel is whatever is in the tank ... might not be ultra low sulphur stuff. Think "sludge".
 
CJ spec (RT4L) oil has had most of the zinc and phosphor anti wear additives removed for the benefit of exhaust aftertreatment components. Thank the state of california for that wonderful news.

This is ok if you have a newish design motor running roller cams or overhead cams. Not good at all for old school motors running conventional flat tappets and pushrods.

CI spec RT4X still has these additives in, though not as much as in the past. Hence my cryptic earlier response.

CJ spec has been the bane of my industry because of the above and I have investigations ongoing about a number of warranty claims over prematurely failed cams and lifters. The same results are found all over the world and many engine reconditioners were blaming poor quality tappets for the problem as was I, but attention has now turned to the new oils.
Originally a petrol engine problem, many classic car owners turned to diesel oils for a reliable additive package, but now diesel oil has had the zinc package reduced and CJ classification has the least of all.
Of course the oil companies say they have come up with breakthroughs to combat problems, but that is not what I and others are seeing.

LS is aware of the problems I am seeing and perhaps he can give another view as to the cummins approvals on CJ spec Rimula.
For me though, I would not risk it.
 
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sorry guys, remiss of me not replying to a thread I started. I'll give the RT4L a wide berth and go for the original RT4 or RT4x. Thanks for the advice.

cheers Gary
 
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