Thicker oil to cure tappet noise

[MiketheMo]

Hi guys.

Continuing saga of my engine timing repair. The engine is noisy with ticking from the top end, tappets / lifters. Also I’m still getting occasional codes from VANOS bank 2 (34).

I was speaking with the mechanic the other day, any wisdom in putting in oil with higher viscosity than standard?

On the US forums, in warm climates, some of the V8 guys are using 20w 50. They say this helps run the car cooler and quietens down the VANOS and top end?

Any thoughts?

[MiketheMo]

Chatting to Tim at Opei oils. Doesn’t recommend 20w-50, that’s for old classic cars he said. I thought that’s what I had!

He recommends 5w-40 Ester based oil, narrowing it down to three...

1) Fuchs Silkolene Pro S
2) Millers CFS/CFS NT+
3) Gulf Competition

Reading the descriptions, the Millers CFS NT+ is appealing to me because it specifically mentions being ideal for engines with hydraulic tappets plus a chance of increased power!

They’re pretty expensive mind you, but if can help quieten down the engine noise, I reckon it’s worth a punt...

[henrym3]

I put my s50b32 engine on Fuchs Pro S 5w 40 years ago to quieten and reduce oil consumption. It did both and yes, expensive but its a once a year outlay and as a DIYer I save money on labour. I run my X on 5w 40 as well. Shell BTW.

[MiketheMo]

Well it’s in the post... 10 litres for £90. Got 15% off with a discount code he gave me. Like you say, once a year and it’s cheaper than a tank of petrol!