oil capacity

[johnpaulny]

I've always filled with 6 quarts when changing oil and filter, per the specifications for the 390 engine. I've come across a lot of information about using 5 rather that 6 quarts because all the old oil does not drain out. After changing, the level is about an inch over the full mark on the dipstick. Is this damaging?

[jopizz]

6 quarts with a filter change is the norm. However it should not be an inch over the full mark after running the engine to fill the new filter. There's always going to be some residual oil left but it should not be that high. Make sure your car is on level ground when you check it. If it is I would remove some so it's on the full mark. Do you have the correct dip stick.

John

[simplyconnected]

FE engines are notorious for being 'oil starved' on long trips (sustained high rpms). They claim a quart of oil sits on top of the heads if the rocker shaft oil feed holes aren't restricted.

The same folks encourage adding an extra quart, over the full line. I have tried running with the 'extra quart'. There was no ill affects at all. If you're not comfy adding a full quart, add a half and run with it.

Maintaining the 'full line' works just fine in city driving. - Dave

[johnpaulny]

Thanks for the reply. It may be the dipstick. I have had the car 3 years, 3 oil changes and always 6 quarts (with filter). Driven about 500 miles total and no problems so I'm going to assume it's the appropriate amount. Also, I read that if there is a problems with frothing there would be bubbles within the oil on the dipstick, which I have not seen.

[johnpaulny]

Thanks. I've seen some info about this as well.