JCB 3CX 1987 Engine Oil

[Classic3CX]

Hi there,

Just wondering about info on the best spec engine oil (and best source) for the above machine, it has the Perkins 4236 in an looking to do the oil change in the next few weeks. Many thanks

[gecko.cx]

Any reputable brand of 10W-30 diesel oil will be better than what it left the factory with 40 years ago!

Have a look at this thread - it'll cover most of your questions
gecko.cx @ JCB oil change

[Classic3CX]

Sound good, thank you

[Slooby]

I used 15W40 in mine bought from Smith and Allen:

As part of my ongoing research, and to try and collate the information in one place after trawling through many posts in many places I've put together the following list of what I believe are the various lubricants used by a 1st gen 3CX, and where to source them from one of the cheapest places that I know:

Engine: 15W40 Mineral, 11 litres; https://www.smithandallan.com/products/ ... il---suto/

Gearbox: M2C33G, 18.8 litres; https://www.smithandallan.com/products/ ... f-m2c33f-/

Back Axle: 10W30 UTTO/GL4/M2C, 28 litres; https://www.smithandallan.com/products/ ... ion-fluid/

Brake Fluid: Hydraulic Oil ISO 15 HVI (NOT VG!), 1.2 litres; Try: https://www.westwayoils.co.uk/

Slew Gearbox: EP90 GL-4 or GL-5, 4.3 litres; can use either:
https://www.smithandallan.com/products/ ... gl4-ep-90/
Or:
https://www.smithandallan.com/products/ ... le-fluid-/

Hydraulics; HP Hydraulic Oil ISO 46, 118 litres – should only need to only change the filter and top up; https://www.smithandallan.com/products/ ... aulic-oil/

[gecko.cx]

I used 15W40 in mine

I also use 10W-40, but I've got longer, hotter summers than you'll see in the UK!

[Slooby]

I also use 10W-40, but I've got longer, hotter summers than you'll see in the UK!

Touche

We've been running 15W40 Mineral oil though in all the machines (the Massey Fergie, Thwaites and now the JCB) for years, and use them in winter, without issue though. I thought the manual suggested an even heavier weight oil for hotter climate use?

[gecko.cx]

Don't get me wrong - not suggesting you shouldn't.
the -40 will have help to keep the oil pressure up at higher temps and to some extent, compensate for some engine wear.
You are right - for the 4.236 in warm climate, 15W/40 is recommended