A Fluids Checklist for Your Vintage Restoration

When I drag a vintage Jeep or truck into the shop, one of the first jobs is figuring out what's in every reservoir, and then getting all of it out. Here's the list I work through.

• Engine oil and filter. Drain it, cut open the old filter and look for metal or sludge before you fire anything up.
• Transmission and transfer case. Old gear oil can be contaminated with water, especially on a vehicle that sat outside.
• Differentials. Check for water or metal on the drain plug.
• Grease points. U-joints, ball joints, tie rod ends and steering. Older rigs have many more grease fittings than modern ones.
• Brake and clutch fluid. It absorbs moisture over time, so flush it completely.
• Fuel. Old fuel goes bad. Drain the tank and lines and treat fresh fuel if the vehicle will sit.

What about oil for older engines?

AMSOIL offers Z-ROD Synthetic Motor Oil, made specifically for classic and collector vehicles. Details are on AMSOIL.com. Every old engine is a little different, so give me a call and we'll talk through your build.

Posted by Mark Ossinger, Independent AMSOIL Dealer, High Desert Synthetics, Sisters, Oregon. Product claims are those of AMSOIL INC.