c1 Fluids

[ScooterMan]

My newly acquired '62 327/250hp w/Powerglide just came off the truck and is now sitting in the garage. It has an "original motor with 57k" and the first thing I want to do is change out all the fluids, but what types? I have some ideas, but on others I don't know...

Engine:
Valvoline MaxLife 10W-30
Filter?

Gas Tank:
91 Octane Unleaded
Gunk Lead Substitute
104+ Octane Boost
Sta-bil
Chevron Techron

Brakes: Gunk DOT3

Transmission: ?

Rear End: ?

Radiator: ?

Any input (positive or negative - on or offline) would really be appreciated.

Thanks
Fix it 'till it breaks

 

[Texan]

???

You are kidding RIGHT!!! :duh

Noticed your name "ScooterMan"... Would guess from that name you ride a bike. Where do you put the oil, transmission fluid, primary oil, brake fluid and such on your bike?

If you're not kidding my first suggestion would be for you to get on the phone, call Corvette Central, Corvette America or somebody and get an AIM. There's even some listed on eBay. This little book will guide you down all the roads ya want to travel.

o~\o

 

[ScooterMan]

No, I'm not kidding. I didn't mean where do the fluids go, but what recommendations on fluids to use...sorry for the misunderstanding.

Yeah, I ride a bike and let me tell you that a lot of controversy exists over what fluids to put in it. Fortunately, that problem has been resolved (to a certain extent) with Harley's new oil that goes in all three cavities (trans, engine, primary). Brake fluid is any 'ole DOT5.

The old Morgan I required some special fluids....one of which was using the corvette rear end 2-part fluid (oil and an additive)

People have ideas about what works and what does not work. I was hoping to get a little knowledge/experience from folks here.

BTW, I just moved from San Antonio to Iowa last month. Sure cuts into my riding season, but should leave me lots of time to do maintenance over the winter months if I can sort out what fluids to use.

 

[Texan]

Opinions

Ok, you're not kidding, I guess.

As far as HD solving the cavity issue, I'm not going down that road because that horse's been ridden to death over on VTF. I'm an Amsoil user anyway.

As far as the fluids in the old '62. You're going to get just about as many answers as I would get to what's the best:

Wine, Women and Song

I've owned some 30+ Vettes over the years, no I'm not a dealer, have OWNED and driven. Most of them straight axle (C1) cars and I'm still going to say grab an AIM.

You were specific about rear end fluids. All of my current Vettes (C1's) have posi rear ends so I use what they use to call whale sperm in 'em because of the clutch plates. Have quite a supply on hand so don't know where you can get it these days. Pontiac (GM) use to sell a great posi fluid but haven't tried to get any from them in years. So if your '62 is running a posi you need to go for the sperm.

If you're worried about the heads/valves because of the no lead issue in today’s gasoline call Jack Podell and get some lead additive from him.



o~\o

 

[magicv8]

80-90 weight lube in the trans and rear - any kind works for me - and I use GM posi additive from my Chevy parts department, no problems in 17 years. One bottle per rear lube change.

Stabil isn't necessary unless you will store the car for more than 7-12 months without starting.

I switched to dot5 brake fluid 15 years ago - love it - especially that it is harmless to the paint.

I also put on a spin on filter adapter - lets me fill the filter before installing it, and easier to find in MT or WY towns when 6000 mile rides require quick lube stops.

A 250hp can run on 89-91 octane - but the valves will need lead for lubricant until/unless you get the heads updated.

The pink/red 5 year antifreeze used in new GM cars is supposed to be superior in protecting engines and aluminum radiators. I switched a year ago, and the only difference I noticed in operation is the color and the fact that it may seep at the drain cock mounting threads. I did get the premixed version from Peak, because my IL water is hard, which contaminates the coolant.

Check the Chevy Service manual for fluid recommendations. If the steering box lube is recommended to be the same as the C2 cars - it is discontinued, and c2 people are using ball joint grease in its place as the closest substitute.

If you have power steering, Use ATF (auto trans fluid) in it - NOT the current power steering fluids.