w115 240d Oil Change Question

[Ducaud]

It's about time for me to do my 1976 w115 240d's first oil change (since my ownership) and i have 2 very quick questions.

1) what is the best oil i can use? (brand/weight)
2) what is the best oil filter kit i can use and where can i buy it?

I was looking around and found this, is this what i should use?

http://i.walmartimages.com/i/p/00/07/19/24/44/0007192444819_500X500.jpg

Also, how many quarts does it take?

thanks!

[katja]

Oh, you're in for some fun...prepare to get the used black oil on something (or someone).

The Mobil Delvac 15w-40 is a good choice...Rotella is another common choice. I have been using Mobil 1 synthetic but I don't see you'd have a need for it in a warm climate and oil leaks tend to show up when you switch to synthetic. I buy seven quarts if I'm remembering correctly; I put in 6 and then add oil if I need to until I reach halfway between the "add" and "full" marks on the dipstick. You definitely do not want to overfill.

As for the filter, I have been using Hengst or Mahle. You can purchase the kits on Pelican Parts thru this web site. There is also a mesh prefilter which you can clean and re-use; mine was missing when I got my car (who knows for how long!) but it is important that you have this part and install it the correct way. I clean the metal cannister & associated parts in my solvent tank (you could use diesel or kerosene).

I found I can do my oil changes with all four wheels on the ground but depending on your size that may be uncomfortable. I loosen the bolt on the filter can until the oil starts to leak out & then let it drain. Once that has stopped, I work myself under there & loosen the filter bolt, then wiggle the can around until it finds its way out through the opening in the frame.

Installing the filter can is the hardest part I think. It helps to have a good light pointed at the spot the filter goes in. Ultimately though, you have to finish working the can back into place by feel, and make sure it is seated in the correct place before you tighten the bolt.