4 replies to this topic

[crmpicco]

Hi Guys,

I am just going to buy a gallon of oil for an oil and filter change and thought i'd change the spark plugs whilst I was at it.

Can anyone recommend a specific brand or type of oil I should go for? Probably be a Halfords trip in EK to be honest )

Similarly for the spark plugs?

It's a 1999 T MPi. The mileage is at 51,000.

I've read on another forum that Mini engines are not designed for synthetic oil and mineral oil is to be used. I'm not sure what oil was put in by the garage when THEY last done the service, but I have topped the oil up with some oil I was given and it's 10w-40w. Not certain if it's synthetic or mineral now.

What is better for me to buy? Is synthetic oil safe on Classic Minis?

Cheers,
Picco

[welshdan]

i use castrol gtx on all of my minis including my t reg mpi.

halfords own brand oil wrecked my gearbox on my old spi after 30K.....

[Manx Mini....]

Looking on the NGK website BPR6E or BPR6ES are what is recommended for your car.
As for oil the castrol website recommends Magnatec 10W-40 A3/B3 (i, j)

[redhotmini]

i use valvoline VR1 20w50 oil - you need the thicker oil as the gearbox runs in the engine oil, thin oil is all well and good but a thicker oil is best as this is what they would have used when developing the a series and gearbox, dont forget its a 50+ year old design so thin oils aren't the best idea

[taffy1967]

I agree with redhotmini as my Mini has gone past 99,000 miles and is still going strong and I've mainly used 'Duckhams Q Classic 20W/50' which is available from most motor factors like 'Motor World' or by mail order from 'Mini Spares'.

Don't use any synthetic oil in your Mini. Not if you want the gearbox to go the distance like mine has.