How much oil does a 350 Chevy take?
For a typical small-block Chevrolet 350 V8, the engine holds about 5 quarts of oil with the stock pan. If you install a deep-sump or high-capacity pan, the capacity climbs to around 6 quarts, and certain aftermarket or race pans can hold 7–8 quarts. This article explains the numbers by pan type and common configurations and how to verify the correct fill on your engine.
Pan sizes and capacities
These figures reflect common configurations found in street and performance 350 builds. Exact capacity can vary by year, model, and any custom pan work; always confirm with the pan manufacturer and check the dipstick after filling.
The following figures summarize typical capacities for Gen I 350 small-block engines using standard and aftermarket pans.
- Standard stock oil pan: about 5 quarts (4.7 L) with oil filter included in the total.
- Deep-sump/high-capacity aftermarket pan: typically around 6 quarts (5.7 L).
- Large-capacity race pans and many performance designs: about 7–8 quarts (6.6–7.6 L).
- Dry-sump or specialty race systems: 12 quarts or more (11+ L) in some setups.
In practice, most street 350s are filled with 5 quarts of oil, and the level is verified on a warm engine using the dipstick. If you upgrade to a different pan, consult the pan’s capacity data and remeasure after filling to reach the correct level on a level surface.
Filling and checking for accuracy
Follow a standard oil-change procedure to ensure the correct fill. The following steps are typical for most 350 engines with a conventional oil pan.
- Park on level ground and allow the engine to cool or reach normal operating temperature as directed by your maintenance plan. A warm engine reads more accurately on the dipstick.
- Remove the oil fill cap, pull the dipstick, and note the current level.
- Pour in oil in small increments (typically in 1-quart steps for a standard fill), then recheck the dipstick after running the engine briefly and allowing the oil to settle.
- Continue adding oil until the dipstick reads at the full mark on a level surface and the engine shows no leaks or warning lights.
- Recheck again after the engine has cooled for a few minutes to ensure the level remains correct.
Important: never overfill the engine; overfilling can cause foaming, reduced lubrication, and potential engine damage. If in doubt, consult the shop manual or a trusted mechanic—they can confirm the exact capacity for your specific pan and engine configuration.
Why the capacity matters
Understanding the oil capacity helps prevent both under-lubrication and overfilling, which can cause engine wear or oil foaming. The pan size, pickup location, and any aftermarket modifications all influence the total capacity, so always verify with manufacturer specs and the dipstick after an oil change.
Additional considerations
Some engines use different pan configurations by year or model, and aftermarket or performance builds may employ deeper pans or dry-sump systems that dramatically change capacity. When in doubt, the clearest reference is the pan manufacturer’s data sheet and the engine builder’s specification for your particular setup.
Summary
A typical Chevrolet 350 small-block generally uses about 5 quarts of engine oil with a stock pan. Upgrading to a deep-sump or high-capacity pan increases capacity to roughly 6 quarts, while race-oriented pans can hold 7–8 quarts, and some racing dry-sump systems exceed 12 quarts. Always verify the exact capacity for your engine and confirm the correct fill by checking the dipstick after an oil change.
What oil should I use in my 350 Chevy?
The standard oil type for a Chevy 350 is SAE 5W-30 for most applications, but the correct choice can vary depending on the engine's age and condition. For older engines, particularly those with flat-tappet cams, an oil with a higher level of zinc and phosphorus (ZDDP) may be necessary to protect the camshaft. Modern synthetic blends or full synthetic oils are also suitable options.
Factors to consider
- Engine age and components: For engines with flat-tappet cams (common in earlier models), you may need an oil with high zinc content to prevent wear. If the engine has a roller cam (common in later models), high zinc isn't as crucial and can sometimes clog catalytic converters.
- Climate: A 5W-30 is a good all-around choice, but if you live in a colder climate, the "5W" rating indicates it flows better during cold starts compared to a 10W-30.
- Engine condition:
- For newer, roller cam engines, conventional or synthetic 5W-30 is typically recommended.
- For older engines or those with higher mileage, a high-mileage oil or a synthetic blend can provide extra protection.
- If the engine has internal leaks, synthetic oil might cause them to worsen due to its cleaning properties. In this case, a conventional or high-mileage oil may be a better short-term choice until the seals are replaced.
Specific recommendations
- For most stock engines: Use SAE 5W-30 conventional or a synthetic blend.
- For older engines with flat-tappet cams: Consider using a specialized oil with a higher zinc content, like those designed for older engines or racing, or add a ZDDP additive to your regular oil.
- For high-mileage engines: A high-mileage oil is a good option for extra protection against wear and leaks.
- For performance engines: Consult the engine builder or use a dedicated performance oil with a higher zinc content.
How much oil does 5.7 take?
The oil capacity for a 5.7L engine, such as the Dodge/Ram Hemi, is 7 quarts with a filter change. After refilling, it's crucial to run the engine to circulate the new oil and then check the dipstick to ensure the level is within the proper range.
- Capacity: 7 quarts (with filter)
- Process:
- Drain the old oil and remove the old filter.
- Lubricate the seal on the new oil filter and install it hand-tight.
- Add 7 quarts of the correct oil to the engine.
- Replace the oil fill cap.
- Start the engine and let it run for a short time to circulate the oil.
- Shut off the engine and check the dipstick to confirm the correct oil level.
How much oil does a classic 350 take?
Royal Enfield Engine Oil. High-performance Castrol Engine Oil for Royal Enfield Classic 350 is sold in containers of 2.5 liters. You may purchase it online. If you want your Royal Enfield engine to run more efficiently, you should use this engine oil.
How much oil does a 5.7 Chevy take?
5.1 quarts (with filter).
