1982 Buick Regal 5.7L Diesel Maintenance Guide: Oil, Filters & Fluids

AMSOIL diesel oil guide for 1982 Buick Regal
AMSOIL diesel oil guide for trucks, vans, SUVs and diesel engines

For the 1982 Buick Regal with the 5.7L 8-cylinder Diesel engine (Code N), the oil capacity is 7 quarts with a filter change. Recommended viscosities include 10W-30 for temperatures below 16°C, 15W-40 for -18 to 16°C, and 30 weight for continuous driving above 0°C. AMSOIL recommends using Signature Series 10W-30 Max-Duty Diesel Oil (DTTQT-EA) paired with an AMSOIL Oil Filter (EAO64-EA).

What oil does a 1982 Buick Regal 5.7L Diesel take?

The engine requires an oil with a CF grade specification. Depending on your operating temperature, the recommended viscosities are 10W-30 (for temperatures below 16°C), 15W-40 (for -18 to 16°C), or 30 weight for continuous driving in temperatures above 0°C.

AMSOIL product recommendations

The following AMSOIL products are specifically listed for the 1982 Buick Regal 5.7L Diesel engine to assist with routine maintenance and performance optimization.

Engine Oil Options

Product Name Code
AMSOIL Signature Series 10W-30 100% Synthetic Max-Duty Diesel Oil DTTQT-EA
AMSOIL 10W-30 Heavy-Duty 100% Synthetic Diesel Oil ADNQT-EA
AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 100% Synthetic Max-Duty Diesel Oil DHDQT-EA

Oil Filter

Product Name Code
AMSOIL Oil Filter EAO64-EA

Coolant & Antifreeze

Product Name Code
AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant ANTPC1G-EA
AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant ANT1G-EA

Automatic Transmission Fluid

Product Name Code
AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic ATF ATLPK-EA
AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic ATF OTLQT-EA

Engine Oil Specifications

Specification Details
Oil Grade CF

Viscosity Guide

Temperature Range Recommended Viscosity
Below 16°C 10W-30
-18 to 16°C 15W-40
Above 0°C (Continuous Driving) 30

How much oil does it take with a filter change?

The total capacity for the 1982 Buick Regal 5.7L Diesel engine is 7 quarts when replacing the oil filter. It is important to check the oil level after refilling to ensure accuracy.

Oil Change Specifications

Component Specification/Torque
Capacity (with filter) 7 quarts
Oil Drain Plug Torque 30 ft/lbs

Automatic Transmission Fluid Requirements

The transmission fluid requirements vary by the specific transmission model installed in your vehicle. Note that for all listed transmissions, the manufacturer’s Technical Service Bulletin has updated the specification from Dexron II or III to Dexron VI.

Transmission Capacities

Transmission Model Initial Fill Total Fill
THM325-4L 3.2 quarts 10 quarts
THM200-4R 5 quarts 11 quarts
THM250C 4 quarts 10.8 quarts
THM350C 3 quarts 10 quarts

Diesel maintenance notes for this vehicle

Owners of the 5.7L V8 diesel engine should prioritize rigorous maintenance due to the historical reliability challenges associated with this specific engine family. Key areas of focus include:

  • Fuel System Integrity: Ensure fuel delivery systems are clean and free of leaks.
  • Cooling Efficiency: Maintain proper coolant levels and quality to prevent overheating.
  • Oil Monitoring: Regularly check oil levels after refills, as the engine capacity is 7 quarts with a filter.

Common diesel oil-related concerns and how AMSOIL products may help

Maintaining a vintage diesel requires addressing specific wear and environmental factors.

Concern Why it matters AMSOIL product from this lookup How it may help Important limitation
Engine Wear Diesel engines experience high pressure and friction. Signature Series 10W-30 Delivers up to 6X more wear protection. Requires proper service intervals.
Contaminants Small particles can cause internal damage. AMSOIL Oil Filter Provides 99% efficiency at 20 microns. Filter must be replaced regularly.
Extreme Temperatures Viscosity changes can affect lubrication. Heavy-Duty 10W-30 Excels in extreme temperatures. Not a substitute for correct viscosity selection.

Recall, TSB, and manufacturer communication notes

Official NHTSA recall research for the 1982 Buick Regal identified two specific campaigns:

  • Fuel Injection System (Campaign 82V012000): The governor weight retainer in the injection pump may fail, potentially causing the throttle valve to stick. The remedy involves dealer replacement of the assembly.
  • Fuel Inlet Pipe (Campaign 82V080000): The fuel inlet pipe may develop cracks at the flared end due to vibrations, leading to leakage. The remedy is a new fuel inlet pipe installed by a dealer.

Note: Owners should verify current open recalls by VIN through an authorized dealer or the NHTSA website.

About this vehicle

The 1982 Buick Regal is a mid-size vehicle that was part of Buick’s premium intermediate lineup during its era. This specific configuration features a 5.7L (350 cu in) V8 diesel engine, which belongs to the Oldsmobile Diesel engine family produced by General Motors between 1978 and 1985.

It is important for owners to understand that these V8 diesel units were designed using the architecture of the Oldsmobile 350 gasoline engine. Historically, this specific V8 version has been noted for significant reliability challenges compared to its V6 counterparts. Because of these documented mechanical shortcomings, maintenance is critical. Owners often research common failure points such as head gasket issues or fuel delivery complications.

Given the historical context of the Oldsmobile-designed V8 diesels, prioritizing fuel system integrity and cooling efficiency is highly recommended. Verifying service history and any previous engine rebuilds is a vital step for long-term ownership of this classic diesel configuration.

Common questions about this vehicle’s diesel oil and maintenance

What is the oil capacity for my 1982 Buick Regal 5.7L Diesel?

The engine holds 7 quarts of oil when performing a service that includes a filter change.

Which AMSOIL oil is best for extreme temperatures?

Both the Signature Series 10W-30 and Heavy-Duty 10W-30 are designed to excel in extreme temperatures.

How often should I change my oil filter?

While specific intervals depend on driving conditions, using a high-efficiency filter like the EAO64-EA can help manage wear-causing contaminants.

Does my transmission need Dexron VI?

Yes, the manufacturer’s Technical Service Bulletin indicates that the specification has been updated from Dexron II or III to Dexron VI for these transmissions.

What should I do about the fuel injection recall?

If your vehicle is part of campaign 82V012000, a dealer will replace the governor weight assembly in the injection pump at no cost to the owner.

Can I use any antifreeze in my coolant system?

For this application, AMSOIL lists ANTPC1G-EA and ANT1G-EA, which are designed to protect all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses.

Disclaimer: This information is derived from provided source data. Always consult your official vehicle owner’s manual or a certified mechanic before performing maintenance.

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