The 1985 Chrysler New Yorker equipped with the 2.6-liter four-cylinder engine represents a specific era of automotive engineering where reliability was paramount. Keeping this classic sedan running requires attention to its lubrication needs, as the original designs are sensitive to the quality of fluids used. Modern synthetic lubricants can significantly improve protection, extend service intervals, and ensure smooth operation for owners looking to maintain or restore their vehicles. Selecting the correct viscosity and type of AMSOIL Signature Series oil, along with compatible filters and other fluids, is essential for preserving the mechanical integrity of this vintage machine.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides the highest level of engine protection and performance, ideal for those seeking maximum horsepower retention and wear reduction.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Offers exceptional cleaning power and is designed to keep engines running smoother for longer service intervals.
- AMSOIL OE 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A factory-licensed synthetic formula that fights sludge and deposits while maintaining excellent performance characteristics.
- AMSOIL 5W-30 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Specifically formulated for vehicles with over 75,000 miles to reduce sludge and control oil consumption.
- WIX Oil Filter – Features premium filtration media that offers improvements over original equipment manufacturer branded filters to ensure clean oil circulation.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A 50/50 pre-mix ethylene glycol formula that exceeds OEM requirements and protects all cooling system metals for up to 150,000 miles.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated option that provides extended protection up to 150,000 miles or 5 years and greatly surpasses standards for corrosion resistance.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Withstands heavy towing, elevated temperatures, and challenging terrain while remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions.
- AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Protects against wear and sludge while promoting smooth, shudder-free shifts in automatic transmissions.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Delivers excellent responsiveness for ABS and traction control systems with stable viscosity across a wide temperature range.
- AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid – Reduces friction and helps seals remain soft to prevent leaks while resisting heat for long fluid life.
Proper maintenance begins with understanding the engine’s requirements. For the 2.6L inline-four engine found in this 1985 Chrysler New Yorker, the recommended oil viscosity is SAE 5W-30, which is preferred for the best balance of protection and flow. Depending on the climate, other grades like 10W-30, 10W-40, or 10W-50 are suitable for temperatures above -18°C, while 15W-40 works for conditions above -12°C. In moderate climates between -7°C and 27°C, a 20W-20 oil can be used, and for warmer weather above -7°C, 20W-40, 20W-50, or 30 weight oil are viable options. The engine oil capacity is 5 quarts when including a filter replacement. After refilling, it is critical to check the oil level to ensure proper lubrication. The oil drain plug should be torqued to 20 ft/lbs to prevent leaks or damage to the pan threads.
While the engine requires specific attention, the cooling system also plays a vital role in the longevity of this vehicle. The coolant capacity for the radiator is 9 quarts. AMSOIL offers two excellent options for cooling system maintenance. The AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant is a convenient 50/50 pre-mix that protects metals, gaskets, and hoses while being free from harmful additives like phosphates and silicates. For those who prefer to mix their own, the concentrated AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant offers extended durability and meets rigorous standards for metallic corrosion and erosion protection. Both options are compatible with all other antifreeze colors and provide protection for up to 150,000 miles or five years.
Transmission health is often overlooked but is crucial for driving pleasure. This New Yorker features an automatic transmission, specifically the A413(31TH) or AP4 models for the 3-speed. The total fill capacity for these transmissions is 8.9 quarts, with an initial fill capacity of 4 quarts. Maintaining the correct fluid level is essential for smooth shifting and transmission longevity. The AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is designed to handle the rigors of towing and high temperatures while maintaining fluidity in extreme cold. Alternatively, the AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid offers a highly effective solution that resists sludge and guards against leaks, ensuring shudder-free operation.
Beyond the engine and transmission, other fluid systems require regular attention. The hydraulic brake fluid used in this vehicle should meet MS-4574 specifications, equivalent to DOT 3. The AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid provides a stable viscosity range, ensuring consistent pedal feel and responsiveness for the ABS and traction control systems. For the power steering system, which relies on PS009 specifications, the AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid is the recommended choice. It helps seals remain soft to prevent leaks, reduces friction, and offers outstanding anti-wear protection even at high temperatures.
About the Vehicle
The 1985 Chrysler New Yorker was a flagship full-size sedan that exemplified American automotive design of the mid-1980s. Built on the Chrysler LH platform, this vehicle was known for its spacious interior, plush ride quality, and a distinct boxy aesthetic that was characteristic of the era. The New Yorker sat at the top of the Chrysler division’s lineup, offering a level of comfort and luxury that appealed to families and business professionals alike.
The model came equipped with a variety of engine options, but the 2.6-liter inline-four engine, known as the “Redsix,” was a notable choice for those seeking fuel efficiency without sacrificing too much performance. Derived from Mitsubishi engineering, this engine was praised for its durability and smooth operation, though it required careful attention to cooling and lubrication to reach its full potential. The vehicle’s suspension system was tuned for a comfortable ride, absorbing road imperfections effectively, which made it a popular choice for long-distance highway travel.
During the 1980s, the New Yorker was a direct competitor to other large American sedans, often featuring chrome accents, vinyl roof options, and a sophisticated interior design language. Owners of this vehicle typically value its retro styling and the reliability of its mechanical components, provided they maintain them according to modern standards. While it lacks the speed of today’s sports sedans, the New Yorker offers a stable, comfortable driving experience that connects owners to a time when cars were built with a focus on enduring comfort and classic American engineering. For complete vehicle care, consider using AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil for seasonal storage or AMSOIL Brake and Parts Cleaner to maintain the braking system’s performance.