The 1980 Chrysler New Yorker equipped with the 5.2-liter 8-cylinder engine (Engine Code G) represents a classic American luxury sedan that demands specific care to maintain its performance and longevity. Proper lubrication is critical for this vehicle, as the engine design and transmission systems rely on precise fluid specifications to operate smoothly under various driving conditions. Using the correct oils, filters, and coolants helps prevent premature wear, manages heat effectively, and ensures that the engine runs quietly and efficiently for years to come. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of the recommended fluids and components tailored specifically for this model.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 10W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Offers the highest level of protection against wear and horsepower loss, extending service intervals up to 25,000 miles for optimal engine health.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 10W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides a balance of protection and cost-efficiency with guaranteed protection for up to 20,000 miles or one year.
- AMSOIL OE 10W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A value-focused synthetic option that delivers excellent performance and protects against sludge and deposits.
- AMSOIL 10W-30 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Specifically formulated with enhanced detergents and anti-wear additives for engines exceeding 75,000 miles.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Delivers 99% efficiency at 20 microns with extended service life to match synthetic oil intervals.
- WIX Oil Filter – A premium aftermarket alternative featuring advanced media that outperforms standard OEM-branded filters.
For the engine of your 1980 New Yorker, the oil capacity is 5.0 quarts when the AMSOIL Oil Filter is included. After refilling, it is essential to check the oil level to ensure proper lubrication throughout the system. The drain plug should be torqued to 20 ft/lbs to prevent leaks without damaging the threads. The vehicle is designed to operate effectively with viscosities of 10W-30 or 10W-40 in moderate temperatures, with other options like 5W-30 or 15W-40 available depending on ambient conditions. For those extending service life, switching between the Signature Series, Extended-Life, or High-Mileage motor oil provides tailored protection.
Transmission and Cooling System Recommendations
The automatic transmission requires specific fluid to ensure smooth shifting and durability. For the A904(30RH) model, the total fill capacity is 8.6 quarts with lockup, while the non-lockup version requires 8.8 quarts. Initial fill is generally around 4 quarts. The A727(36RH) variant has similar requirements, needing 8.3 to 8.6 quarts total depending on the configuration. To maintain transmission health, AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is an excellent choice, offering protection against sludge and extreme temperatures. For a more budget-conscious approach, AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid provides reliable performance with shudder-free shifts. Additionally, a WIX Transmission Filter is recommended to keep the fluid clean and free of debris.
Cooling the engine is equally vital for a classic V8. The coolant capacity varies based on the air conditioning configuration: 17.4 quarts with AC and 14.8 quarts without. AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant is an ethylene glycol-based, pre-mixed formula that offers protection for up to 150,000 miles. For those who prefer mixing their own, AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant provides concentrated protection that vastly surpasses corrosion standards.
Gear, Brake, and Power Steering Fluids
Differential lubrication is crucial for the rear axle, particularly the 7.25 RG units. Whether the differential is 10bc or 9bc, and whether it has a limited-slip or standard setup, the capacity generally ranges from 2.1 to 4.4 pints depending on the specific configuration. AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 80W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube is suitable for most conditions, while AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 and AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-110 offer variations for different temperature requirements or limited-slip applications containing friction modifiers.
For braking and steering, AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid ensures excellent responsiveness for ABS and traction control systems. Power steering systems benefit from AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid, which helps keep seals soft to prevent leaks and resists high temperatures for a long fluid life.
Additional Maintenance and Care
For owners who store their vehicle seasonally, AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer helps keep fuel fresh for up to 12 months, while AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil protects internal components from rust during inactivity. To maintain peak engine performance and fuel efficiency, AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver Gasoline Additive restores horsepower and cleans injectors. For general vehicle care and cleaning, a range of products including AMSOIL Synthetic Multi-Purpose Grease, AMSOIL Heavy-Duty Metal Protector, AMSOIL Silicone Spray, and various cleaning sprays are available to keep the vehicle looking and running its best.
About the 1980 Chrysler New Yorker
The 1980 Chrysler New Yorker was a flagship model in the Chrysler lineup, epitomizing American luxury and comfort during the early 1980s. As a full-size sedan, it was renowned for its plush interior, generous dimensions, and a focus on ride quality rather than sporty handling. Under the hood, the 5.2-liter V8 engine provided a robust power source that was characteristic of Chrysler’s big-block heritage, offering ample torque for cruising and towing.
Owners of the New Yorker valued the vehicle’s stability and presence on the road. It was a staple in the luxury sedan market, competing with offerings from Ford and Chevrolet. The car featured a spacious cabin that comfortably seated passengers, often equipped with high-end options for the era such as leather upholstery, wood-grain trim, and advanced climate control systems. While the 1980s brought about changes in the automotive industry due to fuel economy regulations, the New Yorker retained its identity as a comfortable cruiser designed for long-distance travel. Its heavy-duty suspension and substantial weight contributed to a smooth, isolated driving experience that many enthusiasts still appreciate today. The vehicle represents a significant era in automotive design where size and comfort were prioritized above all else.