I don't know a ton about this engine other than it was purchased "new" as a Crate Engine directly from Chevy. It has Edelbrock carb and intake manifold, a nice ignition unit, and runs headers to a dual exhaust.

I don't know if it has high-performance parts inside but it doesn't "lope" so I'm sure the cams are stock-ish or very mild.

We live in Las Vegas, but it's "winter", 70 at max during the day, and into the 40's at night. It does freeze here but only maybe 20 days a year at most.

Anyway, I'm lost as to what oil weight to use.. I'm sticking with Dino oil, and was thinking 10w-30 for winter... it will be time for a change by April so maybe something a bit thicker?

What do you guys think? I'm sorta thinking that since basic Chevy engines are almost indestructible, it isn't a life-and-death decision... hell my cousin runs ATF-3 in his Chevy 350 that he uses in a Demolition derby car. But, I might as well do my best to get the right oil!

 

10W30 should be fine for you year round.

 

Here is a good read about oil. Thicker is not better for most people. You really need about 10Psi for every 1000 rpm the motor will turn. This guy suggests using 0w-30 for just about everything. Its a good read and full of information. I believe im gonna take his advice in my vehicles.

http://www.bobistheoilguy.com/cms/

 

I use 10-30 in Indiana and it gets down below 20 degrees F on most winter days and my tuck runs just fine, I also use it in the summer and no problems there in the 95 degree F 85% humididty.