MTFCA Forum

Not trying to create another "what oil should I put in my T" post. I know that regardless of what weight, viscosity, traditional/synthetic, adding ATF vs not decisions I make, the one thing I should definitely avoid using is an oil that contains graphite because such a product will wreck the magneto. That said, how does one know if an oil does or does not contain graphite? Most motor oils do not exhaustively list their components, and with the exception of advertised viscosity ratings, marketing terms such as "high mileage!" and "extended life!" are really the only way to compare the various products. Is motor oil that contains graphite common in most oils sold in auto parts stores? Was it ever?

Thanks

Dan

Dan

the can/bottle will have large graphics for "graphite" on it.

VERY few oils contain graphite and likely would be a special order in all but the most unusual cases at very large stores that cater to boutique purchasers.

1970s, I think....and this was about the only one?

.

Arco did market a graphite oil in the late mid to late '70s as the gas prices jumped, tried to claim better milage.

You won't find it on the shelves today. But you can find flake or powder graphite if you wanted to add it to your oil, but..... not your T! Bad on the magnets and magneto pickup.

Bad is right, Dan ! Graphite is conductive - shorts out the magneto !!

There was a motor oil with graphite called Krex being sold in the late 90’s or around 2000. I remember it being sold at a GM dealer I worked for.

Maybe this would be a good oil for shackles etc? Except for the price/ounce
NOTE: Is Discontinued By Manufacturer
Product description
A superior automotive lubricant (NOT an additive), dispersing billions of microscopic particles of graphite that enhance the effectiveness of motor oil. When added to the crankcase of an engine, Krex Graphite Engine Lubricant adheres to all of the internal parts of the engine, protecting and lubricating all the engine's vital moving parts: pistons, bearings, valve stems, and lifters. Today's advanced automotive engines reach temperatures as high as 1,250 degrees F, yet standard motor oil begins breaking down at 350 degrees F. (Even the best full synthetic oil breaks down at 500 degrees F.) Thus, only graphite, which can withstand temperatures up to 5,000 degrees F, can fully protect engines at these extreme temperatures. In addition, Krex Graphite Engine Lubricant improves engine compression, reduces energy consumption, and increases load carrying capabilities.

There are many modern day oils with additives that are questionable as to whether they are conductive and, therefore harmful to your magneto. Additives such as graphite, moly, lithium, carbon, etc. For your simple Model T, it is better to keep it simple and use only basic motor oil. If there is any question, do not chance it. Jim Patrick

Arco had to discontinue the graphite because it clogged up CatConverters I had a 71 Ford that loved it and it did leave a spot on the driveway where parked but boy did it run smooth. I don’t run a magneto but would wonder him it might affect the clutch.

First telltale sign: graphite oil is very black, like used oil from a diesel.
And yes it will render your clutch allmost useless.
Good thing is you'll have a hard time finding it on the shelf of a auto parts store or service station