SL/R107: Oil and filter
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Sep 2019
Posts: 16
Likes: 2
1981 380SL
Oil and filter
I'm sure it's been addressed before, but what oil filter brand and oil viscosity do you use? I like to synthetic. I'm thinking 5w-30 Mobil1 synthetic. I have a 1981 380SL.
Junior Member
Joined: Jul 2020
Posts: 70
Likes: 11
From: Monroe, GA
1985 380SL
You should not use a modern "fuel saving" motor oil. These do not have the necessary wear additives that older engine designs needed from new. I use Mobil 1 15W-50, this is formulated with high zinc levels for use in engines such as the old Mercedes M116/117 engines. I am in Georgia so the viscosity suites the climate. I think Amsoil makes such oils in various viscosty ranges. Look for oils with higher ZDDP levels. Personally I use the Mann filter but I think for the miles these cars are driven any quality filter is ok. The bypass valve is not part of the filter so this isnt as much of a potential issue like most cars.
Newbie
Joined: Aug 2020
Posts: 4
Likes: 3
From: Carlinville Illinois
1977 Mercedes Benz 450SL
First, blessings to you for the care of a classic Mercedes R107 roadster. You may stir controversy; one poster threatens to sock for talk of synthetic oil! I defer to my mechanics-elders and used 15W-40 conventional oil as stated in the MB handbook, MB service manual, and used with other antique engines. I considered Liqui-Moly 15W-40, but simply went with FS brand, that's what we use on the farm. Even Joe's old '53 Corvette runs good on the stuff, and many old Mercedes. The mechanics-elders told stories of synthetic oils causing gasket leaks. And my 450SL runs great on conventional 15W-40 - really purrs over 100mph. I used a Mann oil filter - OEM Germany, won a youtube test, and good deal online with washers/seal. Also popped in the recommended Mann air filter, Bosch fuel filter, Bosch distributor cap/rotor, Bosch spark plugs, and Karlyn wire-set. The fuel filter was exposed to weather below so the holder bolt rusted; had to drill it out and replace the bolt. Really needed a new fuel filter; there was black gunk dripping out! Using Seafoam to clean out the lines of gunk. What a difference!
