Oil Shelf Life

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domtoni
DDK forever
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Oil Shelf Life

Post by domtoni »

Guys, I have 5 litres of Valvoline VR1 in my garage, is probably 6 or so years old, is it still good or should I just dispose of it?

Thanks
domtoni
1969 911E
ER Polybronze bushings, turbo tie rod ends, and 21/26mm torsion bars
neilbardsley
Nurse, I think I need some assistance
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Joined: Mon Apr 16, 2012 4:31 pm

Re: Oil Shelf Life

Post by neilbardsley »

No good. Even if sealed probably best not to use.

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“A REMINDER. I would be grateful if those members who have borrowed bits from me in emergencies (e.g starter motor, oil cooler, etc) would return them and/or contact me”. – Chris Turner RIP
Nine One One
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Re: Oil Shelf Life

Post by Nine One One »

neilbardsley wrote: Tue Jul 29, 2025 3:38 pm No good. Even if sealed probably best not to use.

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Maybe not ???
When stored properly and sealed in a container, most lubricants will last between 2 and 5 years while some fully synthetic oils can last up to 7 to 8 years.

https://www.autodoc.co.uk/info/does-engine-oil-expire

Engine oil can be hygroscopic it will absorb moisture from the air over time ...once the container is opened.

If you are bored, you can always try this?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E1T4XFPgBeo
neilbardsley
Nurse, I think I need some assistance
Posts: 8619
Joined: Mon Apr 16, 2012 4:31 pm

Re: Oil Shelf Life

Post by neilbardsley »

from AI so it must be true

"AI Overview
Valvoline VR1 Racing oil, like most motor oils, does not have a documented expiration date when stored under optimal conditions. However, it is generally recommended to use it within five years of the manufacture date if stored properly. After this period, the additive package can degrade and potentially separate, affecting performance. "
“A REMINDER. I would be grateful if those members who have borrowed bits from me in emergencies (e.g starter motor, oil cooler, etc) would return them and/or contact me”. – Chris Turner RIP
domtoni
DDK forever
Posts: 704
Joined: Sat Feb 26, 2005 2:38 pm
Location: kinver staffs

Re: Oil Shelf Life

Post by domtoni »

Thanks guys, will dispose of it properly.
domtoni
1969 911E
ER Polybronze bushings, turbo tie rod ends, and 21/26mm torsion bars
RobFrost
DDK 1st, 2nd and 3rd for me!
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Re: Oil Shelf Life

Post by RobFrost »

domtoni wrote:Guys, I have 5 litres of Valvoline VR1 in my garage, is probably 6 or so years old, is it still good or should I just dispose of it?

Thanks
It was in the ground for 200 million years. 6 more won't do too much harm.

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1970 911T, Signal orange (Restoration thread)
1988 3.2 Carrera backdate, Black
2001 996 Turbo, Lapis blue (am I allowed to put that here?)
I'm looking for a pre-impact bumper 911S or other high-revving 911 to restore - please let me know if you see one.
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