Oil is a item many owners or garages seem to ignore, why this trend is increasing I'm not sure but its not a good sign, every Range Rover I have carried out oil changes on has been very disappointing.
Firstly transfer box oils are not being changed and if they are changed the wrong type of oil is being used, I've drained out SAE90 oils on many a transfer box (P38) and with very high metal content, not only is the wrong oil damaging but its effectiveness to be cooled is not going to happen.
ATF is used in the transfer and auto box along with the power steering but check with supplier if it can be used in all as some are listed not for power steering use.
Engine oils:
I Prefer to use ELF or TOAL 10W40 or Shell Helix 10W40 HX7 as they offer great protection on the Rover V8 motors with its flat faced hydraulic lifters.
Another good oil is the Castrol Magnatec, along with the Shell Helix HX7 they are both Part synthetic oils.
Ever walked into a spares shop and noticed the odd cheaper oils on offer vs the known brands like Shell, BP, Castrol, Mobil, Caltex etc, compare the prices and you'll notice a substantial difference, now ask yourself why....... Many cheaper oils out on the market are simply junk and contribute to carboned up piston rings and valves, Its one of many reasons why I insist on a good branded oil in any engine.
You cannot use a additive and expect it to work miracles, lets face it the oil companies invest huge amounts into oil research, all these additives are nothing more than SNAKE oil, its a huge industry revolving around those who know no better.
The pic below is from one of the many Range Rovers axle oils that has been drained. YES it is highly contaminated with metal, this will be a bearing failure.
Here again a good quality oil does wonders.
