amsoilman
Staff Alumni
You mention above that synthetic oil has "better lubricity". If you mean it is more slippery and reduces drag, I would like to see hard evidence for that statment. I have been hearing that idea for years and believe it is one of the misconceptions about synthetics. Major trucking companies have done 100,000 mile tests and found no increase in mileage (measurement for reduced drag). I'm a firm believer in synthetics but question better lubricity as a selling point.
A few years back (Oct 1995) there was a SAE Technical paper written #952553 concerning "A Synthetic Diesel Engine Oil With Extended Laboratory Test & Field Service Performance".
This was their conclusions:
Many units have operated on SYN-DEO in heavy-duty, long-haul service at extended oil drain intervals, with some units on drain intervals beyond 100,000 miles. Even under these conditions, SYN-DEO has consistently provided measurable benefits in terms of improved engine performance. (SYN-DEO) Means Synthetic Diesel Oil)
Fleet tests with SYN-DEO are being conducted in Caterpillar, Cummins, Detroit Diesel and Mack engines.
CONCLUSIONS
An SAE 5W-40 synthetic heavy duty diesel engine oil exceeding CG-4, CF-4, CF-2, CF, SH, and EC performance specifications has been developed. Results from this study indicate that formulating an optimized high performance additive system utilizing synthetic base stocks provides a product with a combination of unique physical properties, and laboratory and field engine performance attributes. The high level of performance documented for SYN-DEO in standard and extended-length engine tests was further demonstrated in field testing using greatly extended oil drain intervals. The successful performance of SYN-DEO in severe fleet service confirms the potential for premium synthetic diesel engine oils in extended service applications. Application of this technology offers numerous significant benefits to engine
users.
The extraordinary rheological characteristics of SYN-DEO make it well suited for applications where low temperature engine operation or high temperature oil stability are of concern. The outstanding pumping and cranking performance of this product offers excellent low temperature starting performance. At the same time, the synthetic base stocks provide a product with kinematic and high-temperature high-shear viscosities at levels typical of premium SAE 15W-40 mineral oils. Additionally, the high temperature volatility of SYN-DEO is well below that of most multigrade diesel engine oils.
2. When used at standard oil drain intervals, SYN-DEO will provide a substantial performance reserve in the areas of soot dispersancy, viscosity stability, sludge and deposit control, engine wear, and oxidation stability, with reduced Oil consumption and improved fuel economy, all of which should contribute to extended engine life.
Wayne
amsoilman