Fluids for 64 327-250

[Andrew P.]

Hi...

Does anyone have a quick list of the best fluids to use? Everything has been rebuilt.

Brake? Is Dot5 really the best for storage?
Oil?
Tranny?
Rear End?

Thanks!

-Drew

[James W.]

Re: Fluids for 64 327-250

Andrew,

I'd say that for engine oil, transmission and differential gear lube I'd use the Shell Rotella 15w-40 motor oil and the GM 75-90w gear lube. Don't forget to put in a bottle of the GM limited slip additive in the rear differential when you fill it if the car is equipped with a posi-traction differential.

As for the brake fluid, I'd use the standard DOT 3 fluid. I've never had a problem with it and my '64 was restored 27 years ago.


Regards,

James West
Omaha, NE.

[Tom L.]

Re: Fluids for 64 327-250

For brake fluid I like silicone brake fluid. Primarily because it does not dissolve that beutifull paint job you work so hard to maintain! If you make the switch, be sure to thouroughly flush all the traditional fluid from the system.

[Jim L.]

Re: Fluids for 64 327-250

Brake? Is Dot5 really the best for storage?

Here are a couple of photos of the insides of a wheel cylinder that saw only DOT5 fluid for 20+ years. You can decide for yourself:






Jim

[Timothy B.]

Re: Fluids for 64 327-250

I second the DOT 5, it's been in my 63 for a long time and pedal is on Viagra..

I just purchased 15W40 CI-4/SL Walmart brand for $8.97/gal. The Rotella was 11.88/gal but the spec is CJ-4/SM but our old cars don't need that. The gear oil like above and I put two bottles of the GM posi with fill up, I can't remember if it's 2oz. bottle or 4oz.

[Duke W.]

Re: Fluids for 64 327-250

Any SAE 80W-90 GL-5 is okay for the manual transmission and axle. Like engine oil, gear oils are blended to API standards, so brand name is meaningless.

The only way to switch to DOT 5 and not have possible problems is to completely disassembled the brake system, start with everything clean and dry with new rubber parts and hoses, then assemble the system with DOT 5. Otherwise continue to use DOT 3 or 4 and flush it every few years depending on climate and driving conditions, and brand name is unimportant.

Some European OEs recommend an annual flush. If you live in a damp climate, it rains a lot and the car sits outside, this is a good idea. If you live in a desert environment, don't drive in the rain, and keep the car garaged, it's probaby okay to go five years.

Duke