Fluids

[Sierra Patrol]

I have the service manual, but what fluid brands and type is everybody running for everything including brake fluid.

[RiverPatrol]

I don't try to stick to any particular brand of oils or fluids, I just tend to go with name brands. I would strongly recommend to stay away from any synthetics, unless you want severe leakage issues. I am still dealing with major leaks on Togo since the PO decided to use synthetics in him. As far as brake fluid just stay with the DOT 3.

[bosque]

I did go to full synthetic BUT only after a engine overhaul with new/modern gasket materials. River scared the crap out of me because I did this and was waiting for the leaks but it never really happened probably because of the new modern gaskets. I totally agree with River though with your scenario. You have the original seals or most of them so stay with dinosaurs oils. The point is that syn has built in additives that can break down old type seal materials.
I have Mobile 1 full syn in the 67 now and since the rebuild, 1 1/2 -2 years. I have a drip here or maybe two but I just crank the shit out of the bolts with a big wrench and extension on it............Not! Just seeing if you are with me. Ha!
Seriously, I was worried because I'm a follower and was following advice that turned out just fine WITH NEW GASKETS. I run the Lucas brands in the diffs and gear oil too, spendo but is better. Brake fluid de El Cheapo DOT 3. That is just what I did and am no auto mechanical scientist.

[MadTripper]

I run Castrol 10W30 in mine. Always liked Castrol and has been fine. My Crusher gets 0W40 Mobil 1.

Tripper

[miller]

Ever thought of having a FAQ section for things like this? I know brand/weight can be very personal but having a section with capacities and reccommended weights might be a handy reference... sorry to hijack

[RiverPatrol]

It's on my list of things to do.

[zed]

This is what I have gleaned from the manuals:
Oil –10W30 - 1.8 gal
Trans – SAE90 - .52 gal
Diff – SAE90 - .32 gal
Coolant – 4.6 gal
Brake – DOT 3

Anyone recommend:
Type of coolant?
Capacity of brake system?
Keith

[RiverPatrol]

What different types of coolant are you referring to? There are no aluminum parts in the cooling system so there is no worries of deterioration. I know that was a concern with my Z car years ago.
I have always been skeptical about the listed capacity of 4.6 gallons for the cooling system. One of the first things I do to a Patrol is flush the cooling system and replace the hoses. But after adding 2 gallons of coolant I certainly can't get another 2.6 gallons of water into the system. And anytime I drain the system I don't get anything close to 4 gallons. I know, some stays in the engine block, but I wouldn't think it would be 2 gallons worth.

[zed]

Leslie,
I am not sure if a certain type of coolant is preferred. I was not certain the material used for the heater core. Now-a-days, there is yellow, green, orange and other hues of coolant - all serving different system needs. I am not certain what is compatible with 1950s/1960s technology.
Keith

[RiverPatrol]

Green is the traditional coolant with the anti-corrosives in it. That's what I have always used.