Paul H. (in MD)

Earlier, someone asked if there was an unbiased comparison of synthetic oils. I posted one back in June between Castrol Syntec and Mobil 1. It was specific to my needs, not a general comparison, and may only be of interest to turbo owners. Basically, I chose Syntec 10W-30 based on Kinematic Viscosity, cSt @100C. Follow the link below to read.

Also, last Friday I had the new Castrol Syntec 5W-40 put in. This is a brand new oil, formulated specifically for VW/Audi, and will only be available at VW/Audi dealers (they should have received a bulletin on this by now). It was designed mainly for the TDI motors, but it is recommended for all gasoline engines also.

My initial impression is very positive! My concern here was that I would experience a power loss due to the thicker oil. If it is thicker, it is not by much, because the car seems to have just as much power as before. According to Castrol North America, the Kinematic Viscosity, cSt @100C of this new oil is 12.8 (follow link below for an explanation, as well as figures for other grades). Also, there seems to be less valve clatter on startup with the 5W-40 (vs. 10W-30) if I had let the car idle before shutting it down the night before.

I live in Annapolis, MD. where ambient temps have been near 90F. We'll see what happens this winter.

Paul (no affiliation with Castrol other than as a customer)
'98.5 A4 1.8TQTS/APR in Pearl<ul><li><a href="http://www.a4.org/bbs/a4/9930/messages/1383.shtml">Mobil 1 vs. Castrol Syntec (viscosity, by the numbers)</a></li></ul>

James

and I'm also going to go around town and see what oils are available in my area.

thanks for the reply.

James Wu
<a href="http://vancouver.a4.org">Vancouver A4 Club</a>
1998 Black/Onyx 1.8tqa

T2

.

Jim Senior

Paul - I also live in Annapolis. I have a 99 Passat 1.8TM /AutoThority/K&N. I have used Syntec 5W/50 since the first change at 6K (chipped since 12K). There is another Silver B5 in Hillsmere, but mine has alloys, lea, and a eurobadge (1.8T). You're probably one of a very few Pearl A4s around. I bought at Fitzgerald, who doesn't offer a Synthetic change option (I bring my own). Will probably switch to Tischer after this service (going in for 20K on Friday). Will check out the 5W/40. I have been using Castrol since my 62 TR4 and 68/70/72 2002s. Satisfied customer. Hope to see you around!

Jim

99 Passat 1.8TM, Silver/Black lea, AutoThority, K&N, 215/60-15 Pilot XGTV4s on Adelaide alloys

Paul H. (in MD)

I was told the 5W-40 will ONLY be available at participating VW/Audi dealers.

Paul
'98.5 A4 1.8TQTS in Pearl