The 1987 Porsche 928 with the 5.0L engine is a sophisticated grand tourer that demands precision maintenance. Unlike standard American muscle cars, this German engineering masterpiece features tight tolerances and operates under high stress. Using the correct lubricants is not just a maintenance recommendation; it is a requirement for preserving the vehicle’s performance, handling, and longevity. AMSOIL offers a comprehensive range of synthetic lubricants designed to meet or exceed the specific requirements of this classic Porsche.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
For the 1987 Porsche 928 (5.0L 8-cyl Engine Code [B] 81H 6), the primary lubrication needs center around high-performance synthetic motor oils, compatible antifreeze, automatic transmission fluid, and gear lubes for the manual transmission and differential.
- AMSOIL 5W-40 MS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – Engineered specifically for European vehicles, this oil provides exceptional protection against high temperatures and extends service intervals while meeting the strict requirements of the 1987 928 engine.
- AMSOIL 5W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – A premium option featuring a precise blend of synthetic base oils and additives that ensures rapid engine protection and improved fuel efficiency in demanding driving conditions.
- AMSOIL 0W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – Ideal for extreme cold weather starts, this fluid maintains viscosity for optimal flow while providing top-tier protection against wear for your Porsche’s 5.0-liter engine.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Essential for the 4-speed automatic transmission, this fluid withstands heavy towing and elevated temperatures while promoting smooth, shudder-free shifting and resisting thermal breakdown.
- AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – A high-value alternative that protects against wear, resists sludge, and provides excellent cold-weather performance for your Porsche’s transmission system.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Recommended for the manual transmission and differential, this gear lube offers advanced protection against wear, controls thermal runaway, and extends oil and seal life.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-110 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Provides robust protection for high-load applications, helping reduce operating temperatures and guarding against rust and corrosion in the gear sets.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 80W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Another versatile option for your 928’s final drive and transmission, containing friction modifiers beneficial for limited-slip applications and ensuring long-term equipment life.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A poly-organic acid (OAT) formulation that protects cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses, offering protection up to 150,000 miles or 5 years.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated option that greatly surpasses OEM standards for corrosion protection, allowing for flexibility in mixing ratios while ensuring safe operation in extreme temperatures.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Designed for hydraulic brake systems, this fluid offers excellent ABS responsiveness and a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range to ensure safe stopping power.
- AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer – Keep your Porsche’s fuel fresh for up to 12 months, protecting against varnish and gum buildup and fighting ethanol corrosion during seasonal storage.
- AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver – A potent gasoline additive that restores horsepower, cleans fuel injectors, and reduces the need for higher-octane fuel, helping to maintain peak performance.
- AMSOIL Upper Cylinder Lubricant – Lubricates the fuel system and upper cylinders to protect against wear and corrosion, compatible with capless fuel systems.
Engine Oil Specifications and Capacities
The heart of the 1987 Porsche 928 is the 5.0L V8 engine, identified by the engine code [B] 81H 6. Proper lubrication here is critical for the longevity of the timing chain, camshafts, and valve train. According to the manufacturer’s specifications, the engine requires a specific volume of oil to function correctly. When performing an oil change, the capacity is 8.3 quarts, provided a filter is also replaced.
It is vital to check the oil level after refilling to ensure the correct amount is present, as overfilling can lead to aeration and underfilling can cause inadequate lubrication. The oil drain plug requires a torque of 37 ft/lbs to ensure a secure seal without stripping the threads. For the viscosity, AMSOIL recommends the 5W-40 FS or 5W-40 MS grades for temperatures above -25°C. In colder conditions, the 0W-40 FS is the preferred choice, offering superior cold-start protection while maintaining the necessary film strength at operating temperature. The 0W-40 grade covers all temperatures, making it a versatile option for drivers in varying climates.
While the source summary does not list specific oil filters for this vintage model, the emphasis on using premium synthetic oils means that the oil’s ability to stay clean and resist shear is more critical than ever. These synthetic oils contain additives designed to clean the engine and keep it running smoothly, which is especially beneficial for a 1987 vehicle that may have accumulated carbon deposits or oil varnish over the decades.
Transmission and Gear Lube Recommendations
The 1987 Porsche 928 came with distinct transmission options, including a 4-speed automatic and a 5-speed manual, each with unique lubrication requirements. The automatic transmission, designated as type 722.3, requires a total fill capacity of 9.8 quarts for a complete change, though the initial fill is approximately 7.7 quarts. The hydraulic power steering system also utilizes this transmission fluid, making the AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle ATF a dual-purpose solution for this system.
For the 5-speed manual transmission (G28/13), the requirement is a GL-5 rating, with a viscosity of 75W-90 suitable for all temperatures. The capacity for the manual transmission is 9.3 pints. The AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 is an excellent choice here, offering friction modifiers that can benefit limited-slip differentials often found in these performance vehicles.
The rear differential, which operates with the automatic transmission, requires a GL-5 fluid with a 90 viscosity grade. The capacity for the rear final drive is 5.9 pints. Similar to the manual transmission, AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 80W-90 or 75W-110 can be used effectively. These gear lubes are formulated to control thermal runaway, a common issue in heavy-use or high-performance gear sets, and help reduce operating temperatures to prolong seal and equipment life.
Regarding brake fluid, the system is a hydraulic brake fluid requiring DOT 4 Type 200 specifications. The AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 Synthetic Brake Fluid is specifically designed to provide stable viscosity and excellent responsiveness for ABS and traction control systems, ensuring that the braking power remains consistent throughout the vehicle’s life.
Cooling System and Fluid Capacities
Keeping the engine at the correct operating temperature is crucial for the Porsche 928’s performance and reliability. The cooling system has a substantial capacity of 16.9 quarts. Using a high-quality antifreeze is necessary to prevent corrosion and ensure efficient heat transfer. The AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant is a 50/50 pre-mixed formulation that is compatible with all other coolant colors and free of phosphates, nitrates, and silicates, making it safe for all metals, gaskets, and hoses in the cooling system.
For those who prefer to mix their own coolant or require a more concentrated solution for specific climate conditions, the AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant offers a robust alternative. It is concentrated and requires mixing with distilled or high-quality water. This product is engineered to protect the engine for up to 150,000 miles or 5 years, whichever comes first, providing superior protection against corrosion and erosion compared to traditional formulations.
When it comes to seasonal storage, the 1987 928 benefits greatly from fuel stabilization. The AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer helps keep the fuel fresh for up to 12 months, protecting the engine against varnish and gum buildup. This is particularly important for the fuel system of a classic car that might not be driven daily. Additionally, the AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil can be used to protect internal engine components during long periods of inactivity, ensuring that the engine is ready to run smoothly when the storage season ends.
The AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver is a valuable addition to any 928’s maintenance regimen. It helps restore fuel injectors to 100% flow rate, improves fuel economy, and reduces pre-ignition knock. This additive can revitalize the fuel system and potentially restore lost horsepower, making it a worthwhile investment for maintaining the driving dynamics of this classic sports car.
About the Vehicle: The Porsche 928
The 1987 Porsche 928 stands as a testament to a unique era in automotive history where a supercar was reimagined as a grand tourer. Introduced in the late 1970s to replace the iconic 911, the 928 was a bold departure for the Stuttgart-based manufacturer. While the 911 remained a rear-engine air-cooled legend, the 928 moved the engine to the front, adopting a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout. This design choice allowed for better weight distribution and a more comfortable ride, making the car suitable for long-distance travel without sacrificing its sporty credentials.
Under the hood of the 1987 model lies the legendary 5.0-liter V8 engine, often referred to as the “Big Block.” This engine was a masterpiece of German engineering, featuring Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection, a system known for its reliability and smooth power delivery. The engine was designed to produce significant power, typically in the range of 250 to 300 horsepower depending on the specific market and tuning, delivering a thrilling and linear acceleration curve that was well-suited for both highway cruising and spirited driving on the Autobahn.
One of the defining characteristics of the 928 is its front-end styling, often described by enthusiasts as having a “duck nose” or resembling a duck bill. This aerodynamic design contributed to its low drag coefficient, which was impressive for a sports car of that era. The interior was designed with a focus on driver comfort, featuring ergonomic controls and high-quality materials that were ahead of their time. The 928 was often praised for its ability to serve as a daily driver while still offering the performance capabilities of a true sports car.
Despite its accolades, the 928 faced certain challenges that owners should be aware of, making the use of high-quality synthetic lubricants even more critical. The first common issue involves the timing chain. These engines are known for timing chain wear, particularly in the guides and tensioners. Using a high-zinc synthetic oil like the AMSOIL FS 5W-40 can help mitigate wear on these critical components by providing superior film strength and anti-wear protection.
A second frequent problem relates to the hydraulic timing chain tensioners. Over time, these can fail due to sludge buildup or oil starvation, leading to a distinct rattling noise on startup or under acceleration. Regular oil changes with a high-quality synthetic oil that has strong detergent properties can help keep these tensioners clean and functioning smoothly, preventing costly repairs.
The third issue owners often encounter involves the cooling system. The 928 is equipped with a complex cooling system that can suffer from overheating if not maintained properly. Leaks in the radiator, water pump, or thermostat housing are not uncommon in older models. Ensuring that the cooling system is flushed and filled with a high-performance coolant like the AMSOIL Antifreeze & Coolant can prevent corrosion and maintain efficient heat transfer, reducing the risk of overheating.
Finally, the automatic transmission in the 928 can sometimes suffer from shuddering or rough shifting as the fluid degrades. The fluid in these older transmissions can become contaminated with metal particles and sludge, leading to poor performance. Using the AMSOIL Signature Series ATF can help restore smooth shifting and protect the transmission components from wear, extending the life of one of the car’s most complex systems.
The 1987 Porsche 928 5.0L is a vehicle that rewards diligent maintenance. By using the right lubricants, owners can preserve the performance and reliability of this classic grand tourer for years to come. Whether you are driving on the open road or navigating a track day, the protection offered by AMSOIL synthetic lubricants ensures that your Porsche continues to perform at the highest level.