[cody]

I read both articles at this link, but the one in the sidebar is far more insightful the other.

Autocross Oil?

Autocross and hillclimb racers have their own issues with oil heat, but it’s at the other end of the temperature spectrum. In these types of competitive driving, too little heat becomes the problem, not too much.

Unfortunately, a lot of autocrossers and hillclimbers choose oils that make the situation worse. Many of them campaign modified cars and assume that their radical engines justify the use of a thicker oil. Where the spec for the stock engine is 10W40 or even 5W30, they’ll go with 20W50.

They’re missing a crucial piece of the puzzle. Most autocross and hillclimb cars roll to the starting line with cold oil: Not quite freezing temps, but far from the 212 degree mark. The 20W50 oil is likely to behave closer to its 50-weight rating in these conditions, so it’s doing precious little in the way of lubrication. The thick oil isn’t able to penetrate deep into the engine, and the results can include spun bearings and thrown rods. A popular follow-up move by too many enthusiasts in this situation? An even thicker oil, which only exacerbates the problem.

Most autocross and hillclimb cars—even those that have been modified—will be happy with the oil viscosity recommended by the manufacturer. Before hitting the gas, get the oil up to temperature so it can do its job. If there’s topnotch oil in the sump, autocrossing simply won’t wear out the engine.

A technically savvy driver with a good oil temperature gauge can experiment with slightly lighter oils. These will get up to temperature quicker than heavier oils while offering more power, yet still protect the engine under these unique conditions.