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Foretravel Motorhome Forums => Foretravel Tech Talk => Topic started by: lavocat on September 15, 2010, 09:21:08 am

Title: Powertech/Cat 12 KW genset Oil
Post by: lavocat on September 15, 2010, 09:21:08 am
My powertech has a sticker on it recommending Chevron Delo 400 oil.  That is what FOT used when they serviced it.  Would it be a problem to use Rotella in the 15w40?  Also, mine has a spring loaded valve and hose on the drain plug so that you open the valve and drain into a container.  Problem is it drains VERY SLOW.  Alos I was only able to get about 1.5 quarts less than the capacity out and the dipstick read full before I started.  When I filled it it also would not take the full capacity as indicated in the book.  Any thoughts?
Title: Re: Powertech/Cat 12 KW genset Oil
Post by: Gary Bouland (RIP) on September 15, 2010, 01:51:16 pm
Gerald,  More for the sake of simplicity Than any other reason I use Rotella in both the Cummins and the Kubota Genny.  Makes life simpler.  I doubt that there is enough difference in the two to worry about.  In addition, with Rotella in the hydraulics ( unless you need Dexron  ) you only need to carry one type with you.


Title: Re: Powertech/Cat 12 KW genset Oil
Post by: Dub on September 15, 2010, 04:08:52 pm
Agree with Gary. Delo and shell both make good oil. I've been using Shell Rotella since 1975 in cats, cummins,detroit and kubota with no engine failure because of lube. Like Gary, I like to keep it simple and I buy 1 brand by the case and am done with shopping for oil. Also used Delo from 1970 to 75 and had no lube issues there either. Long history with shell oil.
Title: Re: Powertech/Cat 12 KW genset Oil
Post by: Mike Baldacchino on September 15, 2010, 04:13:10 pm
Watta you'se guys think of synthetics?
Title: Re: Powertech/Cat 12 KW genset Oil
Post by: Gary Bouland (RIP) on September 15, 2010, 04:29:17 pm
At the rate that the ragheads are raising oil prices I guess I will have to start using single malt in the engine and drinking Rotella, might be cheaper.  Bought a 5 Gallon bucket of Rotella Y'day for 51 bucks plus tax... OUCH.  End of rant. OH... Don't start me on tires, 78 bucks each for tires for my little Nissan Pickup....  :'(
Title: Re: Powertech/Cat 12 KW genset Oil
Post by: Dub on September 16, 2010, 02:25:40 pm
Quote
Watta you'se guys think of synthetics?
Mike, I have never used synthetic for engine lube so I don't have any opinion about it but I have changed to synthetic in the trans and rear ends of our semi trucks. Reason for trying it was a mechanic raving about the added protection from wear and the reduction of heat. I changed a few over that were running the desert Southwest where heat is an issue and trans as well as differentials did run cooler.None of the fleets I know personally have changed to synthetic motor oil. More than you asked and i'm referring to diesel trucks but engines and differentials are very similar to dp motor homes.
Title: Re: Powertech/Cat 12 KW genset Oil
Post by: Dub on September 16, 2010, 02:33:51 pm
Quote
Don't start me on tires, 78 bucks each for tires for my little Nissan Pickup....
I hear ya Gary, seems like only a short time ago a man could buy a good pick up tire for under 50 bucks. Not any more my friend. They have us by the short hairs.