How much oil does a 1936 Ford take?
A typical 1936 Ford takes about 5 quarts of engine oil with the oil filter installed; roughly 4 quarts if you don’t replace the filter. This is a general guideline and actual capacity can vary by engine and pan design.
In 1936, Ford primarily used the flathead V8 in most passenger models, with some bodies offering an inline-six. Those engines share similar oil-pan setups but can differ slightly in exact capacity. This article outlines the common figures and practical guidance for maintaining a 1936 Ford.
Engine options in the 1936 Ford
Oil capacity varies by engine family. The figures below reflect typical configurations found in 1936 Ford passenger cars.
- Flathead V8 (221 cu in / ~3.6 L): About 5 quarts with a new filter; about 4 quarts without replacing the filter.
- Inline-six (in some 1936 models): About 4 quarts with a filter; roughly 3.5 quarts without the filter.
Note: Exact capacity can depend on the specific model year, oil pan design, and whether an external filter is used. Always verify with the vehicle’s manual or a trusted Ford restoration reference for your exact car.
How to perform an oil change on a 1936 Ford
Use these steps to ensure you use the correct amount of oil and keep the engine in good condition.
- Warm the engine to operating temperature to ensure a complete drain and accurate level readings.
- Turn off the engine, park on level ground, and place a suitable drain pan beneath the oil pan.
- Remove the drain plug and allow the old oil to drain completely.
- Remove the old oil filter (if equipped) and install a new filter, ensuring proper seating and gasket integrity.
- Reinstall the drain plug securely once draining is complete.
- Fill with the recommended amount of oil for your engine type (about 5 quarts for V8 with filter, or about 4 quarts for inline-six as a starting point). Add gradually and check the level with the dipstick as you go.
- Run the engine for a few minutes, then turn it off and recheck the oil level, topping up if necessary to bring it to the full mark on the dipstick.
- Inspect for leaks around the drain plug and filter, and properly dispose of the used oil and filter.
Following these steps helps ensure you use the correct oil volume and maintain proper engine lubrication. For vintage cars, consider using a modern detergent oil in an appropriate viscosity and avoid overfilling, which can cause pressure issues.
Summary
For a 1936 Ford, plan on roughly 5 quarts of engine oil with a filter installed (about 4 quarts if not replacing the filter). The exact figure varies by engine type and pan design, with the flathead V8 as the common configuration and the inline-six present on some models. Always consult the specific owner's manual or a trusted restoration reference for your exact vehicle, and follow proper oil-change procedures to maintain engine health.
