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Buick Lucerne: Real World MPG

104 messages,  Last post on Apr 11, 2009 at 9:01 PM

You are in the Buick Lucerne Forum.

What is this discussion about? Buick Lucerne, Fuel Efficiency (MPG), Sedan

Messages Page 12 of 12

#102 of 104 Oil and vibrations by cold_motoring

Apr 01, 2009 (12:50 pm)

I worked on the 3800 line at Buick until the last one was built which was Friday, August 22, 2008 at about 12:00pm. I ran the dept that checked each engine for faults and leaks. If an engine was rejected, I analizied the computer info and preformed the basic repairs. Sometimes the decision was a bad cylinder bore or maby a lifter bore too tight causing vibration or too loose causing an oil pressure problem. Many situations.
The answer to the question on oil used during assembly is 10w30.
Remember that in a mass production situation there are many variables which could result in varying fuel millage. All the testing equipment was computer controled, but also had tolerances for the 12 different tests. If an engine was pushing the limits of one or more of the tests and the computer accepted these it sent the engine out. Each engine has its own personality which was developed through machining, parts, and the assembly process and a combination of these could lead to posible lower fuel millage. Any questions just ask and maybe I can shed some light.

#103 of 104 Re: Oil and vibrations [cold_motoring] by kenb757

Apr 02, 2009 (8:06 am)

Replying to: cold_motoring (Apr 01, 2009 12:50 pm)
Does GM use a special break-in oil or additve for the initial factory fill, or is it the over-the-counter (Goodwrench?) stuff? My DTS got about 2 mpg better (at 20 mpg) than my Lucerne Super, but I think it has more to do with tuning and the final drive ratio, than with other inherent differences in the Northstar V-8s.

#104 of 104 Re: Oil and vibrations [cold_motoring] by buicks5

Apr 11, 2009 (9:01 pm)

Replying to: cold_motoring (Apr 01, 2009 12:50 pm)
If you happen to ever see this reply, then please note that I have a 2000 Park Ave Ultra with the supercharged 3.8. This supercharged 3.8 now has 204,000 miles on it and is the best running car and engine of any vehicle i have ever owner at any miles on a vehicle. It does use a tiny amount of oil (1qt at 2500-3500 miles), past the rear valve cover, which is normal. GM replaces the gaskets on other applications, because of possible fire from dripping oil, but not an issue on this car.
 
The supercharger uses a tiny about of oil at about 5,000 miles; maybe 1/4-1/2 pint. Engine starts instantly, does not smoke under any conditions, and pulls hard with good acceleration. I have always used Mobil 1 10/30 with Mobil 1 filter (extra fine filtration).
 
The water pump is still good and tight and the dealer says the timing chain generally does not require replacement, even at high miles...a rarity.
 
Fuel economy is 24-25mpg at 75-80m mph and 29-31mpg at 55-60mph. Commuting at 17 miles one way is about 21-22mpg.
 
Shame that GM found it necessary to cease production. I had a 3.8 in a Toronado and it was also bulletproof. What a terrific engine!

Messages Page 12 of 12

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