Posts for June 10th, 2009

ZDDP – Is the Problem Real???

Is the problem real? Yes, yes, yes it is a real problem for our flat tappet engines.  At the June meeting John Wilson reported serious damage to one of his engines not long after a re-build.  The failure was due to an inadequate amount of ZDDP in the oil.  This raised the question of how do we get ZDDP in our engine oil.  I gave a report at the club meeting some months ago after having researched the question.  I have several reference reports I can send to members if  I receive an me an email requesting them.  In the meantime the following provides a concise summary answering the question.   See the last lines especially.

How do I get oil with ZDDP in it?

•You can buy non-American Petroleum Institute (API) certified oil
o Look for ZDDP at 0.12% or 1200 PPM on label
o Viscosity 20W-50
o Appropriate for vehicles driven frequently

• You can buy oil formulated for classic cars (Moss 220-810, 220-815)
o Typically with ZDDP at 0.12% or 1200 PPM
o Viscosity 20W-50
o Addition rust & corrosion inhibitors
o Appropriate for vehicles driven less frequently

• You can buy API certified oil and add a ZDDP supplement (Moss 220-805, 220-908)
o API SM oil with 0.08% or 800 PPM
o Viscosity 20W-50
o Add 4 oz ZDDPlus to 4 quarts to get 0.14-0.15% (1400-1500 PPM) ZDDP
o    Add 4 oz ZDDPlus to 5 quarts to get 0.11-0.12% (1100-1200 PPM) ZDDP
o    Add 6 oz ZDDPlus to 7-8 quarts to get 0.11-0.12% (1100-1200 PPM) ZDDP
for a Healey oil and filter change