405 L4-1905cc 1.9L (1989)
Engine Oil: Technical Service Bulletins
Engine - Oil Consumption
BULLETIN NO. 357
DATE:
August, 1989
SUBJECT:
OIL CONSUMPTION
MODELS:
ALL 405 VEHICLES
As stated in the 405 Owner's Manual, "an average consumption of 0.5 liter (half a quart) in 600 miles is considered normal. Adding oil between oil
changes is a normal routine maintenance operation. It is necessary to check the oil level regularly."
With today's extended service intervals, engines that do not consume any oil between services may run an increased risk of excessive varnish or sludge
build-up, especially when the vehicle is used for short trips or in heavy stop-and-go traffic. This occurs as the special additives used in motor oils to
prevent these conditions break down over time and mileage. However, in engines that require the addition of oil between services, these additives are
replenished with the new oil, which reduces the likelihood for varnish and sludge build-up.
In addition, oil viscosity can have an effect on the rate of oil consumption. When ambient temperatures ar regularly over O~C (32~ F), a high quality
15W40 motor oil should be used. If the vehicle is used in areas where the ambient temperatures are regularly below O~C (32~F), a high quality 1OW40
motor oil is acceptable. Previous Service Bulletin No. 264 does not apply to the XU9 engines, as 5W30 motor oils are not recommended.
When encountering incidents or complaints of excessive oil consumption it is first necessary to determine the exact rate of oil usage for the engine, as
follows.
Oil Consumption Test:
Before performing this test, make sure the vehicle has accumulated at least 7500 miles, and that the required service at this mileage has been carried out,
as engines tend to consume more oil during break-in.
-
Perform a visual check of the engine for signs of oil leakage from gaskets and seals, etc. Correct as necessary before proceeding.
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Check the crankcase breather system for restrictions in hoses, etc. Make sure Service Bulletin No. 330 has been performed on vehicles
manufactured prior to VIN 503689.
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Warm engine to normal operating temperature (cooling fans engaged) and turn off.
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Remove oil filler cap to allow maximum venting of the crankcase.
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With the vehicle on level ground or lift, drain engine oil for fifteen minutes.
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Reinstall drain plug with new gasket.
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In a graduated container measure the exact quantity of oil required (4.8 qts. or 153.6 oz.) and pour it into the engine. Disregard the level on
the dipstick (unless there is a substantial discrepancy).
--
Note the mileage on the odometer.
-
Allow the owner to operate the vehicle for 1200 miles.
-
Once again with the engine at operating temperature and the vehicle level, drain the oil into a graduated container for fifteen minutes.
Measure the exact quantity of oil in the container.
-
Note the mileage and calculate the oil consumption rate.
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If the oil consumption is less than 1 quart in 1200 miles, no further action is to be taken. If the engine is consuming more than 1 quart in
1200 miles, contact your Regional Office or District Parts/Service Manager for further information.
