I really appreciate all the comments. Although it seems that it is still a well discussed issue. I have read, and still reading the links on oil science. It really is a science. Good points on all sides. A couple points also that don't make sense to me, but food for thought none the less. I think what it boils down to is what you are best comfortable with in your motor (regardless if the motor appreciates the same comfort). Bottom line is, I'm still confused.. lol.. I am not a mechanic by trade, but have built cars, and or motors and pretty good skills with that, but the science of motor oil has always eluded me really. I just always ran what I felt is best with good results so far over the years. Now with being new to the Ford flathead V8, started my inquiry all over again. My car has been running and sounding fine with next to no pressure on the gauge. However I haven't run it much since I only purchased it just before I stored it for the winter. Right or wrong, I like to see the needle actually do something. Sorry, it's just my OCD. That way, I at least know the oil pump is actually earning it's keep. This is what I have decided to do. I picked up this oil, and will add this zinc additive for additional security. We'll see how this pans out.
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I think you made a good choice. The 20/50 as posted by many over the years on this forum as improving oil pressure and working in their engines, the cleaning properties of Castrol and the zinc additive can all help the longevity of your engine. Even if zinc or other components may not be required on these loose, low compression, low valve spring pressure It can certainly help reduce friction and wear and will not show now, it may make these engines ALMOST perpetual. Go back to the 50's where engine failures in all make of cars was frequent compared to the same OLD engines now running, not to todays modern engines. As far as I see it the only difference between than and now is the oil. Attached is a picture of SOME of the sludge I removed from an original 38 engine that sat on the floor of a garage since the early 50's. I bought it several years ago, it never had the pan off and had standard bearings which didn't show much wear and not much of a ridge on the top of the cylinders. I doubt this engine had 30,000 miles on it. I compare this with my 39 engine installed 32 years and 120,000 miles ago with zero sludge and the only conclusion I come to is oil. My reason for changing to Valvoline Cummins Blue is from looking at the make up of the oil. I liked the molly and the zinc additive. It may be over kill for this engine as the Castrol has kept it like new all these years but if it helps a little over the long run that's what I want. Even if you don't have any intention of changing oil click on and read the oil article in my first post. I just thought of all oils being almost the same with a different label. There are different base oil that are used to start with and different additives in most. Like a lot have said almost any oil works in these engines but some may promote REAL LONG life which we may not be here to see the results. G.M.
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