What do you use?


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Yes, there are valid reasons to consider a specific oil viscosity for a stage 2 tuned Land Rover Defender 2.5L TD5 over the standard engine tune. A stage 2 tune increases power and torque, putting additional stress on the engine, which may necessitate an oil with different properties to ensure proper protection and performance.

Here’s why viscosity matters for a tuned engine:

1. Increased Stress on Engine Components
A stage 2 tune generally results in higher combustion pressures and temperatures. This can increase wear on critical components such as pistons, rings, bearings, and camshafts. A slightly thicker oil (higher viscosity) at operating temperature may provide a more robust oil film to handle the increased loads.
2. Higher Operating Temperatures
Tuned engines may run hotter due to increased fuel and air flow. An oil with higher thermal stability and viscosity can better maintain its protective properties at elevated temperatures.
3. Turbocharger Protection
The TD5 engine is turbocharged, and with a stage 2 tune, the turbo may experience higher boost pressures and temperatures. A higher viscosity oil or one with superior high-temperature stability (e.g., synthetic oils) can better protect the turbo’s bearings.
4. Manufacturer Recommendations
Land Rover typically recommends a specific oil grade for standard TD5 engines, such as 5W-30 or 10W-40, depending on climate. For tuned engines, upgrading to a fully synthetic oil with higher shear resistance (e.g., 5W-40 or 10W-50) is often advisable to handle the increased demands.
5. Oil Additive Requirements
Performance oils designed for tuned engines often have enhanced additive packages, including anti-wear agents, detergents, and dispersants, which are crucial for high-performance applications.
Recommendations:
Oil Viscosity: Consider using 5W-40 or 10W-50 fully synthetic oil for a stage 2 TD5.
Oil Brand: Use a high-quality brand such as Mobil 1, Castrol Edge, or Liqui Moly with a proven track record for performance engines.
Service Intervals: With a tuned engine, consider reducing oil change intervals to account for the increased stresses and potential oil degradation.
 
thinking of moving to 5w40 then, truck is not ragged at all, just going to be using it as daily for a while
 
Sorry kissmyaura, I can't help it, a long post warning. (Wife away and no Defender to work on).
Castrol EDGE Fully Synthetic 5W-40 would be an excellent choice for your stage 2 tuned Land Rover Defender TD5. Here's why:

Key Benefits of Castrol EDGE 5W-40 for a Tuned TD5:
Enhanced Thermal Stability:

It performs well under high temperatures, which is critical for a tuned engine that operates under increased stress and heat.
Superior Shear Stability:

The oil maintains its viscosity under extreme loads, ensuring a robust oil film even at high RPMs and torque levels typical of a stage 2 tune.
Turbocharger Protection:

Designed to handle the demands of modern turbocharged engines, it provides excellent lubrication to turbo bearings, which are subjected to high heat and rotational speeds.
Fully Synthetic Base:

Fully synthetic oils like Castrol EDGE offer better oxidation resistance and longevity compared to semi-synthetic or mineral oils.
Compliance with Manufacturer Standards:

Castrol EDGE 5W-40 meets or exceeds ACEA A3/B4 standards, suitable for high-performance diesel engines like the TD5.
Why 5W-40 Specifically?
5W: Offers good cold-start protection, ensuring rapid oil flow to critical components during startup.
40: Provides the thicker oil film needed for high-load, high-temperature operations typical in tuned engines.
Final Thoughts:
Castrol EDGE 5W-40 is a solid choice for protecting your tuned TD5 engine and ensuring consistent performance. Pair it with a high-quality oil filter and adhere to your shorter service intervals.
Do I remember correctly (difficult for me these days) you posted that you are running a turbo boost bleed valve. If so that will increase the duration/time that the turbo is loaded but not increase the loading on the turbo.
Hope that helps.
 
I would cry if I had to put castrol edge in any of my cars, the price of it!
Look at it as an investment for your loved one.
An increase in mpg by using fully synthetic against the usual gravy will pay for itself.
 
Look at it as an investment for your loved one.
An increase in mpg by using fully synthetic against the usual gravy will pay for itself.
I don't think anything effects the MPG of a defender other than the brick like aerodynamics and the speed you drive it. My MPG is religiously tracked using Fuelly and unless I am towing or slipstream at 50mph behind a truck nothing else seems to make any meaningful difference! Averaged over 218k miles I get 27mpg, which is about right!
 
i get 33mpg 60mph motorway, luton to kent straight run
She will sit happy at 70 or even 80, but thats too fast for me too many cockwombles about.
I have had 85 just to see it would go more but my anoose gave out :D so had to slow down
 
Seems Edge is ACEA C3 spec, ie pretty std stuff.

Mannol 7715 on ebay, 61 quid for 20 litres, under half the price of the Edge.

All people need to check is the ACEA spec of the oil, and they will be just fine.
 

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