3 minute read

Fuelling the future

Penrite Oil is an Australian-owned and operated company that has been blending and producing highquality lubricants and other products for nearly 100 years.

Penrite is proud to be one of the few remaining companies around the world with a complete range of products specifically designed to meet the original requirements of veteran, vintage, and classic vehicles. This is including cars, trucks, motorcycles, and tractors. In 1926, when Les Mercoles started blending engine oils on his mother’s stove top in St Kilda and delivering product to local customers using his father’s wheelbarrow, veteran, vintage, and classic vehicles were considered cutting edge. Since then, Penrite has been utilising the latest technology, plus nearly 100 years of research and development, to protect the investments, passions, and everyday drives of their loyal and dedicated customers.

Unparalleled standard Modern lubricants may contain additives that can have adverse effects in many older vehicles. Yellow metals such as brass and copper used in mechanical manufacturing, as well as early types of lubrication systems, need specialised lubricants. One of the key features of Penrite’s Classic engine oils is the use of low-detergenthigh-zinc formulations. This is critical in providing anti-wear protection in classic and vintage vehicles.

Penrite’s Classic engine oils are available in a range of viscosities to suit different engines and driving conditions. The Penrite Classic range of oils are ideal for petrol and diesel vehicles manufactured between

1950 and 1989, while the Shelsley range of engine oils are blended specifically for petrol, kerosene and diesel fuelled vintage, pre-war and post-war vehicles manufactured to 1950.

In addition to engine oils, Penrite’s Classic range also includes transoils for gearboxes and differentials; gear box oils, which are used in gearboxes fitted with straight, synchro and epicyclic gears, and in vehicles fitted with pre-selector gearboxes; suspension oils for telescopic and lever arm type shock absorbers, dashpot and damper oils for pre & post-war SU Carburettors, a semi fluid and steering box grease and a classic car coolant to protect cooling systems from rust & corrosion. These products are designed to provide excellent protection and smooth operation for classic and vintage vehicles.

Fuelled by devotion

“At Penrite, we understand the passion that classic car owners have for their vehicles”, Penrite Oil Brand Manager Jarrod Harding said. Penrite Oil is a company with a rich family history of classic car racing and ownership. The Dymond family-owned Lane 88 museum houses a collection of pre1970’s vehicles, including a 1903 Oldsmobile Model R Curved Dash Runabout,

1920 Ford Model T, a 1927 Bugatti Type 35C, a 1936 Riley Kestrel, 1936 Mercedes Benz 540K, a 1938 BMW Type 328, a 1959 Aston Martin DB4 and a 1922 Vauxhall 14/40 Model M restoration project car to name a few.

“We know that these cars are more than just machines; they’re a piece of history and a source of pride for their owners,” Jarrod said.

He added the classic range was maintained to service the niche requirements of classic vehicle owners in Australia and New Zealand, and to honour the legacies of the technologies of yesteryear that paved the way for the modern vehicle technologies of today.

“Our formulations are specifically designed to protect these unique and special vehicles,” Jarrod added.

“Whether you’re a collector, restorer, or enthusiast, Penrite’s Classic product range has everything you need to keep your classic car running smoothly and looking great for years to come.”

For those who maintain classic and vintage vehicles but are unsure what products to use, Penrite’s Australian-based technical hotline can help. “Penrite’s highly experienced team of experts are here to provide clarification and support,” Jarrod said.

“We know the value of protecting these precious assets, and our team can give customers confidence that they’re servicing with the best products available locally in Australia and New Zealand”.

A century of service

Overall, Penrite’s Classic product range is an excellent choice for anyone who owns or maintains classic and vintage vehicles. With its high-quality formulations and superior protection, Penrite is a trusted and respected brand in the classic and vintage vehicle community.

To celebrate its upcoming 100-year in Australia and New Zealand, with some limited-edition collector’s edition classic product releases. Keep an eye out for some of Penrite’s most popular classic engine oils in limited edition packaging, a must-have for the most discerning collector’s garage.

“We’re very proud of our unique product offering and we look forward to putting the Classic range in the spotlight as part of our upcoming centenary celebrations,” Jarrod said.

For more information, visit penriteoil.com.