kevin@voder.UUCP (Kevin Thompson) (10/08/84)
> Does anyone know whether synthetic oil can be used in a rotary Mazda > engine, since it also injects the oil into the combustion chamber > to lubricate the seals. It would add to the operating cost, since > this takes about 1 qt. per 1000 miles, but it might be worth it > if it also reduces wear. > > Herman Silbiger > houxb!hrs Racing Beat (which has prepared many racing Mazdas which have won the IMSA GT-U and GT-O series) recommends the use of Amsoil synthetic lubricant in rotaries. They suggest, however, that if it's a new or rebuilt engine to use a standard mineral oil for the first 500 miles to allow the engine to break in as the synthetic reduces friction so much. Please note that Amsoil 10W-40 'Street' Motor Oil costs $6.25 a quart! That's $31.00 just for an oil change not including the quart you have to add every month or so. Also be aware that Mazda does not recommend the use of ANY synthetic engine oils, they will void your engine warranty. Having owned three rotaries I really don't think it's worth it, for the engine that is. I do use Amsoil in the differential but not in the manual transmission as I've had problems with 'slippery' oils. I use Castrol 20W-50 in the summer (I live in San Jose, California), and 10W-40 in the winter and find this oil (or Valvoline-no Pennzoil) to be more than adequate. k woul -- Kevin Thompson {ucbvax,ihnp4!nsc}!voder!kevin "It's sort of a threat, you see. I've never been very good at them myself but I'm told they can be very effective."