
Originally Posted by
KWAWD
Thanks Madmagna. I've done a lot research today and spoken to Mitsubishi head office, Castrol customer service and Penrite technical support.
I've also read a bunch of threads here and on a few other motor forums and I've researched SAE, API and synthetic versus mineral based oils.
I've decided to go with the Penrite HPR5. I've chosen Penrite based on the recommendations of the members here. I think that HPR10 would be great as well, but Penrite specifically recommend HPR5 for this car and that's based on the expected temps we have here and the SAE rating being more relevant, but it's not a super critical difference. Recently we've had some very low temps here so the HPR5 product does make sense.
I won't use the Magnatec anymore based on the recommendations here, just to be safe.
Synthetic is definitely the way to go as the technical benefits are clear; primarily more reliable temperature control and far less impurities.
On the question of the flush, there doesn't seem to be any real risks in using it, the overwhelming information on the web is that it's a plus and we have our own Madmagna's expert recommendation as well. I feel it will help to remove some of the built up deposits more efficiently than simply doing more frequent oil changes would. Certainly I have not seen any recurring problems mentioned about engine flushes and the people I spoke to could not identify any problems either.
I will do the flush, drain/fill and drain/fill (so double drain and fill) as that reduces the risk of old additives/oil/detergent left behind after the flush. Overkill? Maybe, but small price to pay to mitigate the risks.
Only problem is availability of getting this done as everyone is booked up for some reason and I want this done ASAP. I did find someone who can do the flush for me tomorrow and I've got the second drain/fill booked for Saturday.
I'll then do the next couple of services at 5K intervals and by then I expect the crankcase should be nice and clear and this issue resolved.
After that I'm going to do the servicing every 7Ks which should ensure longevity of the engine components over time. I think the recommended intervals of 10Ks is just too long, based on my reading of all the pros and cons.