YoYeahBut wrote:

> My mehanic claims that synthetics are very high detergent and are bad
> to start using on old engines. My 87 Accord has 188,000 miles. He
> said if it had had synthetic in it regularly before 100,000 miles it
> would be fine. He reccommends using some of that seal swelling high
> mileage stuff, but I'm hesitant to use anything that would soften the
> old seals. Also he says the Honda oil filters are probably a waste of
> money. He says he's not sure, but he knows the US aotomakers charge
> too much for their filters. Don't filters need to have ratings like
> engine oils.

How old is your mechanic?! I haven't heard this argument since the 50's
or 60's when detergent oils were new. Same deal concerning multi-grade
vs. straight oils, e.g., SAE 30. There are always 100's of "reasons" not
to use new things.

PS: What difference is the 100,000 mile mark supposed to mean?