Hi guys,

I own a 74 beetle & have recently swapped the motor with a 1600cc ACD EFI but have converted it to carb. This engine has hydraulic lifters.

I live in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Hot weather with temperatures up to 32c - 35c. My question is, what sort of engine oil Viscosity should i be using for the ACD motor?

I have read in some forums that the factory recommend oil is 15w40 for Mexican climate range but in wider temp. climate a 5w40 OR 0w40 Synthetic oil is more appropriate. Should i also be using the Mineral oil 15w40 over here?

Thanks.

anyone can help?

I'm surprised about the lack of response to your question, normally there is a real bunfight on this forum when oil is mentioned.

Anyway, for starters, KL has a fairly constant temperature range, you stated 32 to 35 degC. And the nominal oil for Mexico is 15w40. They have also nominated 5w40 or 0w40 for a wider temperature climate, but in Mexico, or South America generally that can include some high altitudes and low temperatures, hence the oil that can handle the lower temperature, as the lower numbers mean that the oil will remain at a usable viscosity (thickness) at lower temperatures. Low temperatures are not a problem in KL, unless you go up in the mountains.

For KL you can stay with the grade oil nominated, 15w40, or possibly even use 20w50 as it is designed for hotter climates.
Having hydraulic lifters it is important that whatever oil you use it needs to be clean and fresh, so be sure to change the oil and the filter at the proper service intervals. Around 5000 to 6000 km. Always get good quality oil, its the lifeblood of the engine.

I know there are some people with Mexican engines on this forum, hopefully they will help out as well. Otherwise try thesamba.com website.

Thx mate. I went & bought a semi-synthetic oil (4L) over the weekend. It's Q8 & is 10/40.

Bug will be serviced next sunday. So far its been running great.

Cheers!!