Hey peoples,
I have a question on oil. I know there has been a lot of debate about the type of oil to use, so I won't bring that up again. I am a noob at "high performance" cars and haven't a clue what the difference is between say a 5w-20 and a 20w-50. All I know is the viscosity is different. Most the 20w-50 bottles say something like "for high performance racing engines", and the 5w-20's say "for prolonged engine life". Can I use a "racing oil" or just stick with the recommended? Do they have any effect on fuel efficiency?? And for the record, I think I've decide to stick with the general consensus and use Royal Purple brand. Whatever... :D
P.S. I used the search thing
and couldn't find any posts that addressed this, hope this isn't a repeat!

First you want a multi-viscosity oil vs. a "straight-weight" like for your lawn mower. The first number of the multi is the weight at lets say room temp or at start-up. The second is is at operating temp. So, if you use a 5w-20 it will be easier to start your car and the engin will then have a little better proctection when it warms up with the oil then having a 20w effect on friction. Now lets say you put 20W-50 in there like what NASCAR uses. This stuff is really thick compaired to the 5w (thin). When you start your car it will take longer because the oil pump has to try harder to pump the 20w up into the engine to decrease metal to metal contact. Since 90 some % of engine wear ocurs at startup you generally want to use the thinner of the options 5w vs 10w. As far at -20 or -30 it probably doesn't matter. Oil also with a heigher number has a better shock absorption ability and with tighter tollerance engines you don't have a many parts slapping around so you could use a 5w. There are also temperature concerns because when oil gets cold is gets thicker. Here in florida 5w is right on but up in let's say NY some might want to check into a 0w oil in the winter. The rest of you readers let me know if you agree...

My pics are in the SE region (black 6sp in drive). I got 520 miles now.... :)

My pics are in the SE region - Jacksonville Fl (black 6sp in drive). I've got 520 miles now....

Thanks, that helps!