Ensuring your 1987 Dodge Charger with the 2.2L Turbocharged 4-cylinder engine remains reliable requires more than just filling up the tank. This specific powerplant, designated with the [E] engine code, demands fluids capable of withstanding high stress, extreme temperatures, and the unique demands of older turbocharging technology. Proper lubrication preserves engine internals, maintains optimal performance, and extends the vehicle’s operational life, especially for a classic car that has seen decades of use. Selecting the right oil and compatible fluid additives is the single most effective way to protect this vintage machine.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
To maintain the peak performance of your 1987 Dodge Charger, we recommend the following AMSOIL products tailored for this vehicle’s specific mechanical needs. These selections are designed to provide maximum protection for the engine, cooling system, and auxiliary components.
- AMSOIL 5W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – A specialized synthetic blend featuring a precise mix of base oils and additives designed to meet the high demands of European and performance-oriented engines, offering superior protection for turbocharged applications.
- AMSOIL 5W-40 MS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – Another premium European formula engineered for gasoline, diesel, and hybrid vehicles, providing robust defense against wear and thermal breakdown in high-stress conditions.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Delivers 99% filtration efficiency at 20 microns to trap small, wear-causing contaminants, ensuring clean oil circulation and extending engine life with greater capacity than competing filters.
- WIX Oil Filter – A premium aftermarket option featuring media that improves upon original equipment manufacturer standards, offering reliable filtration to keep your engine lubricated and clean.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A pre-mixed 50/50 ethylene glycol formulation that exceeds OEM requirements, protecting all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses for up to 150,000 miles or 5 years.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated alternative that greatly surpasses standards for corrosion protection, offering long-life performance in passenger cars and light trucks when mixed with water.
- AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – The ultimate choice for extreme protection, providing 75% more wear protection and superior temperature performance for vehicles requiring high-grade synthetic viscosity.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Formulated with advanced cleaning power to keep engines running smoother for longer, offering guaranteed protection for up to 20,000 miles or one year.
- AMSOIL OE 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A cost-effective synthetic option that fights sludge and deposits while maintaining the high standards of engine cleanliness and wear protection required by modern and classic vehicles alike.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Delivers excellent brake response and a stable viscosity across a wide temperature range, ensuring safety and reliability in all weather conditions.
- AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid – Reduces friction and helps seals remain soft to prevent leaks, while offering strong anti-wear protection and quiet operation for your vehicle’s steering system.
The heart of your Dodge Charger is the 2.2-liter engine, which comes in a naturally aspirated or turbocharged configuration. For the specific [E] E Turbo variant, the demands on the lubrication system are significantly higher than standard engines. The oil must withstand the high heat generated by the turbocharger while ensuring quick flow during cold starts. A 5-quart capacity (with filter) is required for this engine, and maintaining the correct viscosity is crucial for the health of the turbo bearings and the piston rings.
Maintaining Cooling and Transmission Health
Beyond the engine, the cooling system of the 1987 Charger plays a pivotal role in the vehicle’s longevity. With a capacity of 9 quarts, the radiator and cooling circuit require a high-quality AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant to prevent corrosion, scale, and freezing. AMSOIL provides both pre-mixed ethylene glycol and concentrated propylene glycol options that protect metal components, gaskets, and hoses. The ethylene glycol formulation is a 50/50 pre-mix designed for immediate use, while the propylene glycol concentrate offers a more eco-friendly and long-lasting alternative that can be mixed with water to your desired specification.
The transmission in this vehicle, particularly the A520 5-speed manual, requires specific attention. The fluid capacity is listed at 4.9 pints. While the vehicle can operate with standard fluids, a high-quality synthetic motor oil like AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 is recommended for manual transmission use to ensure smooth shifting and reduced gear wear. Proper fluid maintenance here prevents the “notchy” shifting feel common in older manual transmissions and extends the life of the synchronizers.
Essential Fluids for Braking and Steering
Safety is paramount in any vehicle maintenance plan. The hydraulic brake system on the 1987 Dodge Charger benefits greatly from a synthetic AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 Brake Fluid that meets DOT 3 and DOT 4 standards. The recommended AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 fluid offers a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range, ensuring consistent brake pedal feel and preventing the vapor lock that can occur with traditional fluids in older systems. Similarly, the power steering system requires a fluid that can handle the hydraulic pressure without degrading. The 100% synthetic multi-vehicle AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid reduces friction and helps maintain seal elasticity, preventing costly leaks that are common in vehicles of this age.
About the Vehicle
The 1987 Dodge Charger represents a unique chapter in American automotive history. By this year, the Charger nameplate had been revived as a trim level for the Dodge Magnum, but the “Charger” badge often appeared on the rear of these vehicles. The model was built on the K-platform, a front-wheel-drive architecture that dominated the Chrysler lineup during the mid-1980s. This platform was known for its efficiency and practicality, offering a compact yet spacious interior that appealed to families and commuters alike.
The 2.2-liter engine, often referred to as the “A” engine family, was the workhorse of the Chrysler empire. In its naturally aspirated form, it offered decent torque for the era, but the turbocharged version brought a level of performance that surprised many owners. The turbocharged variant, featuring the [E] engine code, utilized a Garrett T2 turbocharger to boost power, delivering a spirited driving experience for a front-wheel-drive compact. This engine was renowned for its robustness, though the turbocharging aspect introduced specific needs for thermal management and oil protection. The vehicle’s driving character was a blend of utility and hidden performance, making it a favorite among enthusiasts who appreciated the potential of a turbocharged economy car.
Classic car owners of the 1987 Dodge Charger often appreciate its straightforward mechanical nature. Unlike modern vehicles with complex electronic management systems, the Charger was largely analog in its operation, allowing for easier maintenance and a more engaging driving connection. The front-wheel-drive layout provided excellent traction in inclement weather, a practical advantage for daily drivers in various climates. While it may not have the raw muscle-car heritage of earlier Chargers, the 1987 model is a testament to the engineering ingenuity of the time, bridging the gap between economy efficiency and performance capability.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Owners of the 1987 Dodge Charger often face specific maintenance challenges related to the age of the vehicle and the characteristics of its engine. One common issue is oil consumption, particularly in higher-mileage turbo models. The synthetic oils recommended for this vehicle help mitigate this problem by maintaining better viscosity stability at high temperatures, reducing the thinning of oil that leads to increased consumption. Another frequent concern is the degradation of rubber seals and hoses over time. The synthetic brake fluid and power steering fluid recommended for this car help keep these seals soft and pliable, preventing leaks that can lead to costly repairs. Additionally, the cooling system on these older vehicles is prone to corrosion and scale buildup, which can clog the radiator and lead to overheating. The use of high-performance antifreeze and AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze formulations provides superior corrosion protection, keeping the cooling system clean and efficient. Finally, carbon buildup on the intake valves and fuel injectors can affect performance and fuel economy. The use of AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver Gasoline Additive helps to clean these components, restoring power and ensuring the engine runs smoothly. By addressing these common issues with the right lubricants, owners can significantly extend the life and performance of their classic Dodge Charger.
Conclusion
Caring for a 1987 Dodge Charger requires a commitment to using high-quality lubricants that can stand up to the rigors of age and usage. Whether you are navigating city streets or enjoying a weekend drive, the right AMSOIL products ensure that your vehicle receives the protection it needs. From the synthetic motor oils that guard against wear to the specialized coolants that prevent overheating, these fluids work together to keep your classic machine running smoothly. By choosing the best lubricants for your specific vehicle needs, you are not just maintaining a car; you are preserving a piece of automotive history.