Engine Oil MB 229.51 or 229.52 best for T1N's?

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220629

Well-known member
See post #24 for evidence that MB229.5 spec oil is not "out of date old formula" oil, but is still a very up to date different formula oil. MB229.5 spec oil is the only oil approved for the VS30 Sprinter 2.0L M274 L4 turbo gasoline engine. Gasoline engines do not have the newer diesel emissions systems. They just need good quality engine oil. MB229.5 is not "old formula" that should be replaced with newer spec oils by T1N owners. Our 5 cylinder engines also just need good quality engine oil.

MB Engine Oil PDF (Attached)
[Official MB] Notes:
In general, the binding engine oil specification (MB-sheet) is documented in the relevant operating manual of the vehicle.
Information on unlisted or older engine types are described in the manual of the vehicle or the maintenance instructions.
[The Operator Manual information is evergreen.]
The prescribed engine oil drain may be dependent on the applied engine oil specification.
When using certain specifications reduced engine oil drain intervals have to be considered.
Details are documented in the operating manual of the vehicle, the service information or maintenance instructions.
Multi grade oils can be used all year-round taking into consideration the outside temperature (see sheet 224.1)
The suitability of the applied viscosity grade (SAE grade) for the expected outside temperatures has to be ensured before the cold season starts

*********

MB 229.51 and MB 229.52 were reported to be backward compatible for T1N engines, but even ignoring the generally higher price point is it the best choice? MB229.31, MB229.51, MB229.52 are NOT backward compatible to MB229.3, MB229.5 (See post #23).

Ravenol Oil published an overview of the MB specs/tests. Thanks goes to Boatworksjon. :thumbup:

Some selected quotes.

Ravenol Newsletter said:
MB 229.52 Multigrade service engine oil Low SPAsh

Engine oil with low sulphur,
phosphorus and sulphated ash content
- Low SPAsh.
The specification MB 229.52 is
based on the standard MB 229.51,
although it has higher requirements for
oxidation stability and fuel consumption
reduction . 229 .52 is primarily
tailored to the new BLUETEC engines.

MB 229.51 Multigrade service engine oil Low SPAsh

Engine oil with low sulphur, phosphorus
and sulphated ash content - Low
SPAsh.
All engine oils with this approval are
so-called "Low SPAsh" multigrade
engine oils. They all have a lower
proportion of sulphur (S), phosphorus
(P) and sulphated ash (SA). Diesel
engines with a particulate filter (DPF)
primarily require these low-ash engine
oils. In addition, MB 229.51 promises
better fuel consumption compared
with MB 229.5.
The following engines are compatible
with MB 229.51:
Petrol engines: M 156 (only SAE 0W-
40 or 5W-40), M 132 (ROW), M 266,
271.
Diesel engines without a particulate
filter: OM 640, 642, 646, 611 in
BR9xx (Sprinter), 660.
Diesel engines without a particulate
filter: OM 629, 640, 642, 646,
660 (EU3/EU4 with unregulated
particulate filters).

Ravenol VMS SAE 5W-30 COMPACT:

* Compared with 229.1/229.3/229.5: lower sulphur, phosphorous and ash forming content, better compatibility with DPF.
* Compared with 229.1/229.3: more environmentally friendly, increased potential fuel savings.
* 229.52 backwards compatible with 229.51, backwards compatible with 229.31: in each case the requirements are more stringent compared with older specifications 229.1/229.3/229.5
* 229.52/229.51/229.31 are therefore not backwards compatible with 229.5/229.3/229.1
* 229.52: currently has the most stringent requirements
* The engines are installed in vehicles including the current ML and GL models, as well as R, S, and G class vehicles.
...
Does better fuel economy come with the price of lesser T1N engine service life?

Note that Ravenol didn't include the OM612 or OM647 engines under MB229.51. Interestingly they did include the Sprinter OM611 engine (also an early 4 cyl CDI design).

The complete Ravenol MB testing information.

View attachment oil.pdf

Ravenol Newsletter said:
* 229.52/229.51/229.31 are therefore not backwards compatible with 229.5/229.3/229.1
What oil does a Mercedes dealership put in your T1N?

I have my thoughts, but there should be enough information for others to decide.

:cheers: vic

Added:

...
I find that Lubrizol is a good general information source for engine oils. This link has info about some of the newer emissions regulations as relates to oil.

*****
Added:
The Lubrizol links have gone stale.
can be used for searching. Eg. - "ACEA aftertreatment", "European Engine Oil"

*****

https://passenger.lubrizoladditives360.com/acea-aftertreatment-compatibility/

Lubrizol has some great pages on the ACEA oil specifications.

This E9 overview has some info about SAPS "Note 1 : SAPS refers to Sulphated Ash, Phosphorus and Sulphur, the levels of which are often restricted in the latest performance specifications."
http://www.lubrizol.com/EuropeanEngineOils/E908.html

And the C3 spec (which includes MB229.51?)
http://www.lubrizol.com/EuropeanEngineOils/C308.html

https://www.lubrizol.com/engineoiladditives/acea/conferencepapers/acea.pdf
...
Mercedes BeVo Specification Listing

http://bevo.mercedes-benz.com/bevolistenmain.php?language_id=1

Added:
...

When it comes to the older 903 and 904's [T1N 5 cylinder] we simply fill with 10 [1.0?... 9.5 is a T1N fill] quart jugs of Rotella T6 [5w-40 Full Synthetic Blue Jug] or Valvoline Blue [15w-40], same as our policy on Cummins fills using exclusively Valvoline.
For the same reasons MB folk like seeing MB bottles and labels !

... Dennis
Added 20180726

...
Actually Shell Rotella T6 5w-40 Full Synthetic (blue jug) has a good TBN. I don't know where it may be lacking except that MB BeVo takes off T1N points because it is MB228.31 spec. Which is interesting because MB says that the MB229.51, .52 which lacks some of the same properties is fine.
*****
My latest opinion for T1N engine oil.

The engine oil needed [for T1N's] isn't rocket science anymore. Modern small displacement turbo diesel engines are no longer a new special beast. There are many, many oil manufacturers that produce quality turbo diesel engine oil. Many don't submit to MB for their BeVo list official specification. Lacking a DPF and other more recent emissions controls as the T1N does, any good quality turbo diesel engine oil of the proper viscosity for your areas of operation will be fine.

I put my money where my mouth is. I've used many different brands of engine oil in my T1N. I look for MB spec and ACEA class on the labels, but the most important factor for me is viscosity. I look for 0w-40 or 5w-40 with 5w-40 being the more common that I find.

If my operation area allowed 15w-40 viscosity oil that would be included in my selections.

Actually I sometimes top off to 9 quarts with the 2 ea. gallon jugs of 5w-40 by using 1 quart of 15w-40 oil. Oh the humanity!

:2cents: vic
Worrying about draining the last little bits.
Broken record here.

Remember that if you maintain your fluid changes to the proper schedules the removed fluid is toxic waste per the EPA, but it is still good serviceable product for your vehicle. Worrying about getting the last drops out when you keep up on your maintenance is a complete waste of time and effort.

Generally the fluids need to be changed out to renew depleted ADDITIVES. The base fluid is still fine.

:2cents: vic
Added:
An overview that I found easy to use. The list isn't complete for all MB spec oils applicable to a specific Sprinter engine, but what is listed is good to use.

vic

PAGE DISCLAIMER: The Sprinter motor oil information on this page should not be used as a substitute for what your vehicle owner's manual, factory service manual, or authorized Mercedes Sprinter dealer recommends. Consult your owner's manual for the correct type of Mercedes Sprinter oil that is to be used for your specific Sprinter model.

Recommended Mercedes Sprinter Oil Specs
The recommended Sprinter oil, specifications, quality standards, and oil viscosity weight are specified in your owner's manual. These specifications can typically be referenced in the owners manual index under engine oil or operating fluids. If you have lost your owner's manual and are having difficulty determining what type of Sprinter oil to use, you may wish to refer to our BLAU® Sprinter Oil Change Kits; which match the correct Sprinter oil, oil filter, and hardware for each specific model and engine type.

Types of oil used in Dodge Sprinter Model Engines
  • 2003-2006 Dodge Sprinter 2.7L OM647 OM612 L5 turbo diesel models use oil spec MB 229.5 or MB 229.3.**
  • 2007-2008 Dodge Sprinter 3.5L M272 V6 gasoline models use MB 229.5 or MB 229.3 oil specs.**
  • 2007-2009 Dodge Sprinter 3.0L OM642 V6 turbo diesel models use MB 228.51 or MB 229.51 oil specs.*
Types of oil used in Freightliner Sprinter Model Engines
  • 2002-2006 Freightliner Sprinter 2.7L OM647 OM612 L5 turbo diesel models use MB 229.5 or MB 229.3 oil specs.**
  • 2007-2008 Freightliner Sprinter 3.5L M272 V6 gasoline models use MB 229.5 or MB 229.3 oil specs.**
  • 2007-2012 Freightliner Sprinter 3.0L OM642 V6 turbo diesel models use MB 228.51 or MB 229.51 oil specs.*
  • 2013-2016 Freightliner Sprinter 3.0L OM642 V6 turbo diesel models use MB 228.51, MB 229.31, MB 229.51 oil specs.*
  • 2014-2016 Freightliner Sprinter 2.1L OM651 L4 turbo diesel models use MB 228.51, MB 229.31, MB 229.51 oil specs.*
  • 2017-2018 Freightliner Sprinter 3.0L OM642 V6 turbo diesel models use MB 228.51, MB 229.31, MB 229.51, MB 229.52 oil specs.*
  • 2017-2017 Freightliner Sprinter 2.1L OM651 L4 turbo diesel models use MB 228.51, MB 229.31, MB 229.51, MB 229.52 oil specs.*
Types of oil used in Mercedes Sprinter Model Engines
  • 2010-2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3.0L OM642 V6 turbo diesel models use MB 228.51, MB 229.31, MB 229.51 oil specs.*
  • 2014-2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2.1L OM651 L4 turbo diesel models use MB 228.51, MB 229.31, MB 229.51 oil specs.*
  • 2017-2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3.0L OM642 V6 turbo diesel models use MB 228.51, MB 229.31, MB 229.51, MB 229.52 oil specs.*
  • 2017-2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2.1L OM651 L4 turbo diesel models use MB 228.51, MB 229.31, MB 229.51, MB 229.52 oil specs.*
  • 2019-2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2.0L M274 L4 turbo gasoline models uses MB 229.5 oil spec.
* The OM642 and OM651 Sprinter engines can use a variety of Mercedes-Benz MB engine oil specs. At this time, the MB 229.52 oil spec is the newest and most up to date oil formulation for Sprinter diesel models equipped with diesel particulate filter emission systems. The MB 229.52 diesel oil quality specification will support the greatest diesel particulate filter emission system and EGR valve cleanliness and longevity. MB 229.52 can be used in place of MB 229.31, MB 229.51 oils specs recommended in older Sprinter diesel engine models.

** Any engine oil with MB 229.5 specification can replace MB 229.3. MB 229.3 oil specification should not be used in place of MB 229.5 spec.


Added:

Added:

Some of my recent thoughts about newer MB oil specifications.

Anymore the newer MB oil specifications are not about avoiding blowing up your engine. Any good quality (not necessarily expensive) turbo diesel engine oil will work for the mechanical parts. The issues are emissions system service life (DPF) and maybe playing better with biodiesel blends.



Mercedes seems always to be very conservative with recommended fluids and service intervals. The question in mind is the difference between a SAP of 0.8 as recommended vs the more common SAP of 1.0 or less that many vehicle manufacturers are happy with. Does that difference significantly reduce the service life of the Sprinter DPF, or just reduce it a bit? :idunno:


The above comment is just musing. As a T1N owner I don't have a dog in the race. The reality is that a DPF is expensive to replace.



As to what the MB229.52 spec includes over MB229.51...

The information is out there is you dig around. The differences between MB229.51 and MB229.52 spec may not apply at all to owners of older model Sprinters. The original fluid specs in the Operator Manual always apply.



The MB229.52 "improvements" are not about avoiding blowing up your engine. The mechanical part of the oil hasn't changed from MB229.5 spec. It is the emissions part that changed.



MB 229.52

Oils meeting this specifications must have lower ash content, at least 1% better fuel economy compared to the requirements of MB 229.31 and MB 229.51 and better oxidation stability for biofuel compatibility. Can also be used where an MB 229.31 or an MB 229.51 oil is required. Just like MB 229.5 and MB 229.51 this spec requires a long life oil.



Will you notice a theoretical 1% better fuel economy during real world operation? Do you use a high percentage of biodiesel? Mercedes has always been fine with up to 5% biodiesel blend. That was before MB229.52 oil was rolled out.



If the mechanical condition of your engine is the concern then an owner should stay with the approved oil that still contains some of the tried and true additives that work for that. Many of those additives have been reduced or eliminated for reasons of emissions system longevity, not for the betterment of the mechanical parts.

Proper viscosity for your service areas should be included in your selection of engine oil.
ViscosityChart.jpg
 

Attachments

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220629

Well-known member
Here's another person I'd bet wouldn't recommend using MB229.51 or MB229.52 spec oil in your T1N.

http://www.stephensservice.com/bluetec-diesel-issuesproblems/

Thanks goes to Geriakt for posting the link in NCV3. :thumbup:

:cheers: vic

Added!
The above link is provided for general information only.

A point of clarification for the information link provided above.

First. It isn't what the manufacturer recommends. Following the oil selection guidelines provided by Stephens Service may void the warranty.

The claims of sludged up engines using MB recommended engine oil haven't been supported by posts/threads here on Sprinter-source. Perhaps the problems relate to other model Mercedes products?

:2cents: vic

P.S. - I personally do agree that Mother Mercedes is over protective of her babies with BeVo oil recommendations. There are diesel oils not found on the BeVo list that are good products.
 
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ktm 300

Member
Re: MB 229.51 or 229.52 best for T1N's?

That great info, but what was the last and best mb spec # for a t1n in 06. Purchased Amsoil euro Car Formula w/MB approved spec 229.51.... Uneasy about using it due to low SAPs.
 

CJPJ

2008 3500 170 EXTD 3.0 V6 OM642.993 4.182
Re: MB 229.51 or 229.52 best for T1N's?

That great info,
but what was the last and best mb spec # for a t1n in 06.
Purchased Amsoil euro Car Formula w/MB approved spec 229.51.... Uneasy about using it due to low SAPs.
the 229.5 spec # for the t1n .

For some perspective; the 229.5 spec is also used in hi-proformance engines that can exceed 7000rpm.
- Porsche, corvette, mustang.

:2cents:
 

220629

Well-known member
the 229.5 spec # for the t1n .

For some perspective; the 229.5 spec is also used in hi-proformance engines that can exceed 7000rpm.
- Porsche, corvette, mustang.

:2cents:
Most would agree with you, especially the people who favor brand name Mobil 1 0w - 40 Euro Formula. I don't disagree that MB229.5 is good oil. I use MB229.5 spec oil in my 2004 and 2006... but not exclusively. I have also used MB228.3, MB228.31, MB228.5, etc.

The vehicle engines cited above are petrol fueled. There have been oil discussions which suggest that MB228.3 and MB228.5 spec oils were specifically developed for diesel use so may be equal to or better than MB229.5 for our 2.7L 5 cylinder diesels. A search in the Aussie section should get those discussions.

Added:
Note the reference to 228.

Daimler Specifications
Daimler issues their own set of requirements for service fill engine oils used in their Mercedes-Benz vehicles. These are compiled together into a single document which is periodically updated, either when testing requirements are changed or new specifications are added.
Each individual specification is known by its MB Sheet Number. For heavy duty diesel vehicles, the MB sheet numbers begin with the number 228 and for passenger vehicles with the number 229. The MB sheet numbers are all in a sequence beginning with the sheet number and ending with a two digit suffix denoting the specific specification. For example, in passenger cars the MB Sheet 229.3 is typically referred to as MB229.3.
The specifications detail allowable viscosity grades, ACEA or API level performance that must also be met plus additional physical, chemical and engine testing that must be conducted. This includes engine tests that have been developed by Daimler and chassis dynamometer testing fuel economy testing in specific vehicles for certain specifications.
All applications for approvals against Daimler’s specifications are made through Daimler’s online BEAM system. Daimler publish lists of approved lubricants on the Mercedes-Benz website.

The fact that MB doesn't recommend MB228.31 spec oil for our 2.7L engines kinda supports the thought of not using the newer formulation low SAP MB229.51 or MB229.52 oils in our T1N's. That said, Mercedes absolutely supports that MB229.51 and MB229.52 oil is fine for a T1N even though the emissions control specific design properties are not needed by the 2.7L diesel engines.

Many owners have reported using MB228.31 Shell Rotella T6 5w-40 fully synthetic (blue jug) with good results.

As I mentioned earlier, I have my thoughts. Others should decide based upon the information available.

:cheers: vic
 
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I have 100 000 miles in my sprinter 2006 with mobil delvac 1300 super, 15w-40 and i have no problems. This oil is 229.31. the next oil change i will use a syntetic oil but here in Mexico i can not find variety of oils. Here we only have options like Pentosin and Febi. Here in the south of Mexico we a very hot weather.
 

220629

Well-known member
Thicker oil eg. - 5w-40 vs 5w-30 may not be as critical as making certain the oil is thin enough at cold start.

An interesting comment from Blackstone Labs as to thin oil.

Thanks goes to Geob for the PDF. :thumbup:

View attachment Feb_17_Engine_Newsletter.pdf

vic

Added:

The point of posting the Blackstone information is to make people aware that proper MB spec Xw-30 weight oil can be a fine choice, not that Xw-40 oil is bad.

Where is this going?

One article by an oil testing professional doesn't negate all of the testing Mercedes Benz has done over decades. Everyone loves to quote the Operator Manuals and BeVo if someone suggests straying from the doctrines. Is that to change?

So now some comments by one person have the forum questioning the MB recommended oils that have given multiple hundreds of thousands miles engine life. It isn't like our Sprinter engines are grenading.

What I got from the article.

If your manufacturer recommends thinner oil than what you may be comfortable with, don't sweat it. The thin oils work fine.

What I didn't get from the article.

Do not use the 5w-40 MB proper spec oil anymore because it will ruin your engine. (It has been fine for the life of many, many vans.)

:cheers: vic

P.S. - To be clear, my comments above are about viscosity, not additives. I still don't feel MB229.51 or MB229.52 oil is the best choice for my T1N, but that's an additive package thing.
 
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220629

Well-known member
Everyone easy please. This is a sticky.

vic

Good old Lubrizol for information again. This PDF explains some of the "Why's" of oil formulation.

View attachment Lubrizol{HCWMKHZLZP-225201116126-KLLVSPEMSF}.pdf

Note that page 7 indicates MB229.3 spec oil uses ACEA base ratings with MB adding additional testing criteria (6 tests for MB229.3). I suspect that applies similarly to other MB specs. ACEA as base, + X additional MB specific parameters.

Added:
How important is a complete drain during oil change?

Bit of a silly question, but since my preferred oil change location is not flat is there any harm, or benefit, to having the van at a slight tilt? If slant is ok/beneficial then nose up/down, listing to port/starboard? Looks to me that a slight tilt towards the driver's side could be ok or even a good thing...
It may have some effect, but my personal opinion is that the net result is in an area of diminishing returns.

Many people seem to view leftover used oil in a crankcase like it is toxic acid or completely detrimental to the next fluid being added. If a proper OCI schedule is being followed the drained oil is actually good serviceable product.

Think about it.

:2cents: vic

Added for clarity:
But this thread is not about oil quality. Take that discussion somewhere else.

If a proper OCI is used the oil is drained long before it no longer is within spec. A cup of old oil left here and there in the engine is not toxic. Assuming no evidence of sludge is found in the pan/sump, I feel that any methods employed to try and flush, wash, or otherwise fully remove the leftover oil (except extra drain time) has more potential for engine harm than does leaving a bit of leftover old oil.

Just my opinion. I have no data. Copy and paste to another thread if you wish to discuss/refute.

Some references I've used along with BeVo.

Lubrizol
https://www.lubrizol.com/en/Lubricant and Fuel Additives/Engine Oil Additives/ACEA

Ravenol
View attachment Ravenol N-GB-New_ACEA.pdf

Ethyl
This is an older version which goes to MB229.5 spec. A newer version is available $$.
View attachment Ethyl oil rating.pdf

And of course BITOG
(Maybe 15w-40 MB228.3 ain't so bad?)
BITOG Thread said:
In general terms a 15/40 will last longer than a 5/40 if they both use similar base stocks (Amsoil make a fully synthetic 15/40), but in pure oil film strength terms the oil engineer is correct, which is why the best type of oil for use in very hot deserts is listed by Volvo for TDI engines as a 15/40 even for an engine that has an 0/40 approved.
The bad news is that nearly all 15/40's are designed for trucks and that means they have to be cheap, so the quality of their add packs is not so good and not many are true long life oils as a result.
https://bobistheoilguy.com/forums/ubbthreads.php/topics/2861557/2

Perhaps T1N RV owners who often change their oil based upon time (too few miles per year) should be using 15w-40 MB228.3 spec oil? Some RV's can be fairly heavily loaded and often see only warm, or hot ambient temperature operation.
 
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I feel more power in the engine and less noise with a 5-40 febi oil. It is a sintetic oil. Last years i was using mobil 15-40 1300 super delvac.I'll stay with synthetic oil from now on. I think having the parts of the engine slipping better will have fuel savings and lengthen the life of the turbo and the engine shafts. Febi is 229.3.
 

220629

Well-known member
Has anyone used this stuff from chevron? It is on sale this month at Costco.
...
It has been MB BeVo approved for T1N Sprinters for some time.

It appears that they are on the same track as many formerly approved MB228.3 *only* 15w-40 engine oils. It has been changed to a lower ash formulation to work for vehicles with DPF.

The question for those who want to strictly follow the MB specifications is if the Delo is approved for both MB228.31 AND still maintains MB228.3 spec. [See the Delo 400 LE comment below.] Technically MB228.31 only is not approved for the T1N 5 cylinder diesels.

Personally I would use, and have used a MB228.31 spec oil and not worry about it. Many have been doing so.

Frito has 115k miles on nothing but Rotella T6 [5w-40 full synthetic in the blue jug MB228.31 approved only]. :thumbup:
Mobil 1 difficult to source here. :idunno:
(Some have maybe not noticed that their 15w-40 oil of choice has changed from MB228.3 to MB228.31 over the years.)

"Chevron Delo 400 LE, which already meets MB 228.3, was approved for the new specification without reformulation. MB 228.31 approval requires running the full suite of API CJ-4 tests, plus passing two additional engine tests developed by Mercedes Benz; MB OM611 and OM441LA."

The OM611 and OM441LA refers to Mercedes standard test engines. ACEA uses the same test engines.

Added:
"Without reformulation" hints that the MB228.3 is still valid.

*************
Another diesel engine oil with MB228.3 and MB228.31 on the label. (Not necessarily on the BeVo list.)

Gulf Synthetic Super Duty Plus Diesel Engine Oil, SAE 5W-40
View attachment gulf_synthetic_super_duty_plus_5w-40_pds.pdf

Added: It seems that the Gulf oil above is more common across the pond, not the USA. I have no idea why, or where my supplier gets it, but I snap it up whenever it shows on the shelf.

:2cents: vic
 
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Isla

Member
I had my oil changed once at a dealer in Tennessee and they put LiquiMoly Leichtauf 5w-40. Been usin it sense, good thing?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 

220629

Well-known member
I had my oil changed once at a dealer in Tennessee and they put LiquiMoly Leichtauf 5w-40. Been usin it sense, good thing?


...
A quick search shows it to be MB229.5 spec. That is good. There are probably similarly priced MB229.5 oils that are easier to find.

Here are some comments related to use in gas engines.

https://www.bobistheoilguy.com/forums/ubbthreads.php/topics/3735861/Liqui_Moly_Leichtlauf_High_Tec

vic

Note: This sticky is now locked to keep the compilation of information on topic.
 

220629

Well-known member
From a recent thread.

...

When it comes to the older 903 and 904's [T1N 5 cylinder] we simply fill with 10 quart jugs of Rotella T6 [5w-40 Full Synthetic Blue Jug] or Valvoline Blue [15w-40], same as our policy on Cummins fills using exclusively Valvoline.
For the same reasons MB folk like seeing MB bottles and labels !

... Dennis
vic

Added:
5w-40
https://rotella.shell.com/products/...d6752bb50d245468c48b2/rotella-t6-brochure.pdf

15w-40
http://hd.valvoline.com/our-products/valvoline-premium-blue-8600-es-heavy-duty-diesel-engine-oil
 
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220629

Well-known member
Some additional information as to why low SAP oil probably isn't the best choice for a T1N or any diesel without a DPF.

The quotes are for the information which they contain. They are not for support of any particular brand oil.

Amsoil said:
What is SAPS?


SAPS stands for sulfated ash, phosphorus and sulfur.
They comprise a significant portion of a motor oil’s additive content. Sulfated ash is not added to oil; it is the result of additives in the oil burning and creating ash. The additives that can produce ash are most commonly used for total base number (TBN), but also help in other areas, like antioxidancy, anti-wear, cleanliness and soot handling. Phosphorus provides anti-wear properties and further antioxidancy, while sulfur contributes antioxidancy, anti-wear properties and engine cleanliness.

SAPS Levels

Given the beneficial properties these additives impart, it’s easy to assume a higher concentration equals a better oil. But higher SAPS levels can be a detriment to expensive exhaust devices, such as diesel particulate filters (DPFs) and catalysts. The European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) realized the importance of using motor oil formulated with precise SAPS levels, and lower limits were established in 2010.

The three different SAPS levels of European motor oils can be confusing, especially when considering the same viscosity motor oil (5W-40) is available in mid- and full-SAPS AMSOIL European Car Formula options.
...
AMSOIL European Car Formula 5W-40 Full-SAPS Synthetic Motor Oil (EFM) is recommended for European gasoline or diesel vehicles requiring any of the following performance specifications:

API SN/SM
ACEA A3/B3, A3/B4
BMW LL-01
GM/Opel LL-B-025
Mercedes-Benz 229.3, 229.5
Porsche A40
Renault 0710, 0700
Volkswagen 502.00, 505.00
https://www.amsoil.com/newsstand/auto-and-light-truck/articles/european-motor-oils-and-saps-content/

http://www.synforce.com.au said:
ASTM D 874 Test Parameters

These additives usually contain one or more of the following metals:

barium
calcium
magnesium
zinc
potassium
sodium
tin
These elements can be present in combined form:

sulphur
phosphorus
chlorine
The sample is ignited and burned until only ash and carbon remain.

After cooling, the residue is treated with sulphuric acid and heated to 775C until carbon oxidation is complete. The ash is then cooled, retreated with sulphuric acid, and heated to 775C to constant weight. The sulphated ash can be used to indicate the concentration of known metal-containing additives in new oils. The result to the nearest 0.001 mass% for samples below 0.02 mass% and to the nearest 0.01 mass% for higher levels are reported as the sulphated ash.
http://www.synforce.com.au/sulphated_ash.html

The additives which leave ash after the above tests can help to extend your engine service life. Without a DPF there is no reason to limit those additives.

vic
 
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220629

Well-known member
For those who drain their oil conventionally using the drain plug vs sucking out.

There has been some recent discussion about sludge building up in the oil sump possibly to the point of interfering with proper oil supply. Our T1N Sprinters are not getting any younger.

Last oil changes I formed a small rake using iron wire to insert into the drain hole and help verify whether sludge is a problem. I didn't find any evidence of problem in my Sprinters. Over 320,000 miles on my 2004 typically a 14,000 mile OCI, 160,000+ for the 2006 - no real OCI history on that.

Not necessarily a very scientific test, but I feel better.

:2cents: vic

Added:
Many, many T1N owners have achieved multiple hundred thousand miles using the ASSYST maintenance prompt for oil changes. Typically for me the ASSYST OCI Oil Change Interval has been 14 - 16,000 miles. That includes many miles towing my sailboat. The 2004 now has over 325,000 miles original drive train.

My opinion, supported by my ASSYST history and MB recommendations.

Changing the oil filter and even the oil at a 5000 mile OCI is a waste of money and resources.

My fuel filter change goal is every 2nd oil change. Using my typical ASSYST OCI that works out to around 30,000 miles. Anecdotal information from other owners suggests that a 20,000 mile fuel filter change is conservative. Further supporting documentation would be that MB has raised the fuel filter change interval to 20,000 miles on newer Sprinter models. The T1N and NCV3 fuel filters are similar in design and size.

My recommendation to those who want to spend money and obsess about all things Sprinter. Put your concerns and spare money into properly maintaining your cooling system. Don't believe the MB myth that any engine temperatures up to 250F are ok. Except under extreme circumstances, a properly cooling Sprinter engine will not approach 250F, and certainly you should not be seeing over 235F regularly.

Very few Sprinter engines have been ruined by extended OCI. Many more have been undone by poor cooling.

:2cents: vic
 
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220629

Well-known member
NCV3 information. It may give a reason to avoid extended oil changes. (Newer NCV3 Sprinters suggest a 20,000 mile OCI.)

A response in a V6 OM642 timing chain failure thread.

Thanks goes to Dennis for his continued input. :thumbup:
No belt just a twin row timing chain.
Yes it does stretch and made worse by infrequent spec oil or irregular oil changes. Again carbon abrasives in the oil causes a "chain" wear reaction, excuse the pun.
When it lets go it does some serious damage , but then the same can be said of all similar engines including BMW 4,4 gasoline and Ford/ Landrover/Jag 5 litre AJ series engines .
A chain breakage on one of these beauties starts at $8000 up.
I have 5 engines to fix like this at the moment. In fact I have been knee deep in one (5 litre AJ) all day today!
The OM642 Sprinter complete drop in exchange is $10,400 plus labor is a great deal!
Dennis
I've always advocated the ASSYST oil change interval. For my T1N service that is usually a 12 - 14,000 OCI. T1N timing chain failure is not rampant in ASSYST T1N Sprinters. In my opinion the tried and true 10,000 mile OCI is conservative and works for all but a few Sprinters which may truly under severe service. Certainly the 10K OCI easily applies to most owner's non-commercial mixed city/highway driving service.

:cheers: vic
 
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