The Original Synthetic Motor Oil

Latest News and Information in the World of Lubrication

Reprinted from The Direct Line & The Action News

October-December 2006

Past issues of Auto Technology & Lubrication News

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Briefly

Vehicle Winterization

According to a recent Car Care Council survey, more than 70 percent of motorists neglect to properly prepare their vehicles for winter weather. Commonly neglected services include checking coolant and flushing/refilling according to manufacturer recommendations, inspecting the batter and exhaust system, checking heater and defroster operation, inspecting tires and checking/replacing wiper blades.

Grease Tip

According to Noria Corporation, it is important to exercise caution when applying grease to an electric motor bearing with a grease gun. "Take 3 to 5 seconds per shot from the grease gun, and give grease time to distribute. If grease appears around the shaft of out the purge line, stop adding grease immediately; the cavity is full. After adding the appropriate amount of fresh grease (maximum volume), leave out the purge plug for 10 to 30 minutes to allow excess grease to purge. Do not worry if grease does not purge, because this is common. Reinstall plug in purge port (or pipe)."

GM Transmission Leak

Certain 2005 and older General Motors cars and trucks equipped with a 4T65-E automatic transmission may develop a leak from the transmission case. According to GM, the leakage is most common in colder temperatures (20°F or lower) and is caused by reverse servo cover seal shrinking that creates gaps between the case and servo cover. While GM originally recommended replacing the entire servo cover and seal, the company now offers a new seal designed to be used with the original cover.

The Best of Both Worlds

Automakers are developing engines that provide both fuel efficiency and performance.

Although fuel efficiency has become increasingly important to motorists in recent years, they haven't lost their appetites for speed and performance. A recent trend among vehicle manufacturers is developing increased performance from smaller displacement engines. Automakers are finding that combining smaller blocks with direct injection, Variable Valve Timing (VVT) and other technologies allows them to produce engines that provide the fuel efficiency of a four-cylinder engine while still delivering the performance of a V6.

General Motors, for example, incorporates advanced combustion technology in its all-new Ecotec 2.0L Direct Injection Turbo Engine. Gasoline direct-injection technology, VVT and an intercooled, twin-scroll turbocharging system allow the engine to produce 260 horsepower and 260 lb.-feet of torque while maintaining the fuel economy benefits of a small displacement port-injected engine.At 2.1 horsepower per cubic foot of displacement, the engine is GM's highest specific output engine ever.

Honda is prepared to be a major player in this market as well. The subcompact 2007 Honda Fit features a 1.5L, SOHC, 16-valve, four-cylinder VTEC engine that produces 109 horsepower and 105 lb.-feet of torque. Its VVT and Lift Electronic Control provide highly efficient operation at low engine speeds and extended performance at high engine speeds.

Automakers have also been modifying transmissions and torque curves. An increasing number of seven-speed transmissions have hit the market, and Lexus recently introduced the world's first eight-speed transmission in a passenger car. The gears of these new transmissions cover smaller ranges and act as multiple overdrives, further improving fuel efficiency. some automakers have broadened the torque curves in certain vehicles to further increase fuel efficiency and performance. The Mercedes-Benz 2007 GL-Class Crossover utility vehicle, for example, incorporates a two-stage magnesium intake manifold to broaden the torque curve, allowing it to be more responsive over a broad rpm range. When operating at lower speeds, a set of flaps in the manifold close off short intake passages, improving torque at low rpm. The flaps allow a power boost at higher speeds when open.

While gasoline-electric hybrid vehicles grab the spotlight when it comes to fuel efficiency, diesel vehicles are gaining momentum as well. In fact, diesel is 30 percent more fuel efficient than gasoline.The introduction of Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) fuel and advancements in diesel engine technology have enabled diesel passenger vehicles to meet increasingly stringent federal emissions standards. High performance, fuel efficient new diesel engines are expected to continue their popularity surge in the coming years. According to John Moulton, president of the Powertrain Division at Robert Bosch GmbH, diesel-hybrid models are also on the horizon, combining the advantages of hybrids in city driving with the advantages of diesels in highway driving.

DaimlerChrysler has introduced BLUETEC technology to the diesel market, which the company claims is capable of producing the cleanest diesel vehicles in their segment throughout the world. According to Dr. Dieter Zetsche, chairman of DaimlerChrysler and head of the Mercedes-Benz Car Group, BLUETEC is a combination of technologies designed to reduce all relevant emission components in cars and light trucks. M-B commercial vehicles pair highly efficient engines with exhaust gas treatment systems based on selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology that converts harmful nitrogen oxides (NOx) into harmless nitrogen and water vapor by introducing ammonia as a reducing agent in the catalytic converter.

Briefly

Oil Filter Tip

When used with AMSOIL synthetic motor oil, AMSOIL Ea Oil Filters are recommended for up to 25,000-mile/one year intervals in normal service or up to 15,000-mile/one year intervals in severe service. WIX oil filters are ideal for use with AMSOIL XL Synthetic Motor Oils, providing excellent protection for the entire drain interval of 7,500 miles and beyond. AMSOIL SDF Filters are available as supplies last. When used with AMSOIL synthetic motor oil, they are recommended for up to 12,500 mile/six month intervals in gasoline engines. When used with other brand motor oils, AMSOIL and WIX filters should be changed according to vehicle manufacturer recommendations.

Pickup Truck Personalization

According to the 2006 SEMA Light Truck Personalization Report, full size pickup truck owners spend an average of $1,461 on truck personalization, while mid size truck owners spend an average of $1.006.

Motorcycle Sales Continue to Increase

Motorcycle sales have been on a steady increase for 14 straight years, and high gas prices continue to attract even more customers to the world of motorcycling.

Motorcycle sales have been on a steady upward climb since 1993, and 2006 is on pace to be the 14th straight year of increased motorcycle and scooter sales. In fact, according to the Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC), sales numbers for the first half of 2006 were up 10.9 percent over the first half of 2005 among the 15 leading motorcycle brands. Sales of on-highway motorcycles were up 11 percent, while scooter sales increased 19.7 percent compared to the first half of 2005.

"It's exciting to see continued, growing interest in motorcycling across America, and that there are more and more reasons for the demand," said MIC president Tim Buche. "There has been a lot of attention paid to motorcycle and scooter sales this year because of rising fuel prices. The reality is that a long-time trend of increasing motorcycle sales, now more than a dozen years strong, just continues revving along. Sales have gone up every year since 1993. That's when the first 'Jurassic Park' was the summer blockbuster and you could buy gas for under $1.50."

Buche cites high gas prices as a major reason for the increased popularity of motorcycles and scooters. "With many motorcycles capable of 50 to 70 miles per gallon, and many scooters getting 60 to 80 mpg, dealerships and manufacturers are fielding a lot more inquiries about fuel economy," said Buche. "But during the past 14 years, motorcycling also has found its way into the fabric of American culture, with two-wheeling getting past old stereotypes and gaining acceptance and traction as a great form of transportation and recreation."

Motorcycle and scooter sales eclipsed the one million mark for the third straight year in 2005, rivaling the high sales levels of the 1970s.With over 1.5 million sales, motorcycling popularity reached a zenith in 1973, and sales remained high throughout the 1970s before cooling considerably in the 1980s and early 1990s. The comeback started in 1993, and sales have increased every year since.

"The motorcycle demographic is widening, from baby boomers who are coming back to bikes, to Generation Y Americans into adventure sports, entire families and growing numbers of women who ride," said Buche. "Motorcycles, scooters, even gear and leather riding jackets are more fashionable than ever. We used to have to look hard to find positive motorcycle imagery in pop culture. Now you see bikes everywhere, spicing up advertisements for a wide range of major industries for a wide range of major industries, in fashion layouts, in runway shows, in store windows, in art museums, in the form of toys at the local department store and with many celebrities, CEOs and folks from all walks of life."

Ever-improving technology is another reason for the increased popularity of motorcycles. "Another factor with the soaring sales has to do with the bikes themselves," says Ty van Hooydonk, Director of Product Communications with Discover Today's Motorcycling. "Motorcycles and scooters are simply better than ever, in performance, style and variety, and still very affordable. The latest Cycle World Buyer's Guide lists more than 400 models. And it's not just sportbikes and cruisers and touring bikes. There are emerging niches between these broad categories, appealing to a wider array of personal tastes in bikes. There's a fun little $3,000 sportbike that gets 74 miles per gallon. There are beautiful big cruisers that cost $12,000 or less. There are many desirable bikes at these prices and beyond that Americans aspire to own and enjoy."

AMSOIL 10W-40 (MCF) and 20W-50 (MCV) Synthetic Motorcycle Oils provide superior protection and performance and improved fuel efficiency in motorcycles, reducing maintenance expenses and keeping bikes running smooth and trouble-free.

Improve Fuel Economy in Four-Wheel Drive Vehicles

Four-wheel drive vehicles often receive poor fuel efficiency. Four Wheeler Editorial Director Douglas McColloch offers the following tips for increasing fuel efficiency in four-wheel drive vehicles:

1) After installing bigger tires, regear the axles to ensure optimal engine rpm at cruising speeds. The speedometer should also be recalibrated.

2) If running a three-speed transmission, consider an overdrive unit. A manual transmission also provides an increase in fuel efficiency.

3) Ensure the engine and fuel-delivery system are tuned. Improper carb jetting, clogged injectors and filters, improperly gapped spark plugs and worn out 02 sensors can all decrease fuel economy.

4) Install freer-flowing aftermarket air filter and exhaust components that improve intake and exhaust flow.

5) Use synthetic lubricants for reduced wear, better viscosity retention and longer service intervals.

6) Keep tires properly inflated and wheels aligned.

7) Install an electric cooling fan to replace the stock beltdriven fan.

8) Shed excess weight such as lightbars, nerfbars, side steps, jerrycans, auxiliary lights and storage boxes during the winter months.

9) Turn off the A/C when it is unnecessary.

10) Avoid short trips, jackrabbit starts and too-high (or too-low) revving.

Briefly

Grease Tip

According to "The Lubricating Grease Guide," where grease is handled in dispensing systems, the grease grade used should be more closely related to the system capabilities than the application requirements. Consistency differences are important in service. "Consider, for example, the use of grease in a gear case. The grease should be carried into the meshing gear teeth, which are thus kept covered with lubricant. If the grease is firm, the gear teeth may cut a channel through the grease and run dry, causing damage to the teeth. Unless operating temperature is high, therefore, soft to semifluid greases are ordinarily recommended." Because the grease will churn, soften, heat up and exit through the seals, carrying grease to the rolling elements in ball or roller bearings is not recommended. A common recommendation for ball bearings is to fill the bearing space about one-third full of firm grease, often NLGI No. 2.

Aftermarket Sales Increase

According to the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA) 2006/2007 Aftermarket Factbook, U.S. vehicle aftermarket sales increased by five percent in 2005 to $267.6 billion, the largest increase since 2000. "We're extremely pleased to see steady growth in aftermarket sales while the new car dealerships' share continues to slide for the fifth consecutive year," said AAIA president and CEO Kathleen Schmatz. "And contrary to the frequent prediction that DIY is dying, our data shows that the DIY is dying, our data shows that the DIY side of the industry grew by a healthy 5.6 percent."

Rinker Completes a Perfect Season

Team AMSOIL powerboat racer Terry Rinker sweeps the 2006 ChampBoat Series season, breaks the world record for consecutive wins and earns his second straight championship.

Team AMSOIL, powerboat racer Terry Rinker had a lot to be proud of following the final ChampBoat Series race of the year at the Inaugural Grand Prix f Savannah in Savannah, Ga. on November 5. Not only did he wrap up his third ChampBoat Series championship in four years, he completed the sweep of the seven race season and broke the world record for consecutive victories.

The 2003 and 2005 ChampBoat Series champion got off to a quick start in Savannah, setting the fastest qualifying time of 32.46 seconds and winning his heat race in order to earn the pole position for Sunday's main event. Although the 50-lap finale was slowed by a series of crashes and four restarts, Rinker effectively held off challenger Shaun Torrente to win his seventh straight race, break the world record for consecutive victories and defend his championship. Teammate Randy Rinker finished ninth.

"It is a dream come true," said Terry. "I couldn't have done this without my fine crew who prepared a perfect AMSOIL/Rinker boat. All I had to do was get it to the finish. We look forward to keeping the streak alive in '07. We aren't going to lie down now that we have the record, and we want to extend it in the worst way."

The ChampBoat Series races will be broadcast on the Speed Channel this winter, with the first episode scheduled to air Saturday, December 23.

Briefly

Prevent Air Contamination

According to Noria Corporation, air contamination can lead to the following problems in hydraulic systems:

Spongy hydraulics - Loss of hydraulic control can slow throughput, increase the percent defective rate and potentially cause injury or death.

Gaseous cavitation - Some operators claim gaseous cavitation leads to wear, while others say it causes noisy operation.

Oxidation - The more oil comes into boundary contact with air, the higher the rate of oxidation.

Thermal degradation - Compressing an air bubble from ambient pressure to 3,000 psi increases the bubble's temperature to more than 2,000 degrees F, thermally degrading oil at the boundary contact between the air and bubble.

Signs of air entrainment and foaming should be taken seriously. "If you have recurring problems, evaluate the lube specification and the tank design, and check for low levels and signs of a suction line leak."

Water Contamination Tip

According to "The Practical Handbook of Machinery Lubrication," water contamination caused by condensation is common in North America due to dramatic changes in temperatures. "Hydraulic or turbine oil with a 'milky' appearance is an indication of water in excess of 2,000 PPM, and action must be taken to replace the oil, or remove the water through special filtration systems available for this purpose."

Truck Winterization

Winterization inspections are essential to maintain truck reliability and performance throughout the winter season.

Another winter season is on the horizon, and impending sub-zero temperatures and snowstorms in some parts of the country present challenging and sometimes unsafe conditions for truck drivers. In order to maintain truck reliability and performance throughout the winter season, a winterization inspection is essential for trucks operating in cold climates.

"Often, trucks from warmer climates incur the most detrimental weather-related damages," says Brian Mulshine, service development and marketing manager at International Truck and Engine Corporation. "Many northern fleets are accustomed to living in the cold and take proactive measures to protect their trucks. But statistics tell us that many of the vehicles requiring roadside assistance during the winter months are those that are maintained in states with warmer climates. Customers operating in warmer climates have to remember that even though they may not go everywhere, their trucks do."

AMSOIL synthetic motor oils excel in cold temperatures. Their low pour points and wax-free formulations ease cold weather starting and provide vital start-up lubrication to prevent engine wear.

International Truck and Engine Corporation offers the following winterization checklist:

Under-Hood Inspection
1) Check antifreeze levels for freeze point and additive concentration.
2) Inspect the fuel/water separator and drain water from fuel tanks.
3) Check thermostat operation.
4) Check the starter system.
5) Check the block heater and fuel heater operations.
6) Inspect the condition of all belts and hoses. Replace as needed.
7) Pressure test the cooling system and ensure all hose clamps are secured to prevent cold leaks.

Heater System Inspection
1) If the truck is equipped with heater shut-offs, be sure they are on.
2) Check the heater's performance and operation of the door.
3) Replace the cab air filter.
4) Blow out debris from heater core films.

Air Dryer Inspection
1) Drain water from all air tanks and inspect valves for function and leakage.
2) Check air dryer operation and heater per manufacturer's specifications.

Electrical System Inspection
1) Test the alternator output and starter draw and apply protection.
2) Load test the batteries, check their condition and apply protection.

Chassis Inspection
1) Check the exhaust system for leaks.
2) Check tire condition and pressure.
3) Inspect wiper blades and windshield washer operation and fill washer bottle.

Snocross Season Begins November 24-26

The 2006-2007 WPSA snocross season gets started on the weekend of November 23-26 with the inaugural AMSOIL Duluth National in Duluth, Minn. Team AMSOIL star D.J. Eckstrom has earned first place Pro Open podium finishes at the AMSOIL Duluth National the past two seasons, and he collected six total podium finishes last season on his way to finishing third overall in the Pro Open class and seventh overall in the Pro Stock class. Eckstrom will be joined this season by new teammate Shaun Crapo, who finished third in the Pro Stock class and fifth in the Pro Open class last season for Team Arctic Cat. Look for Eckstrom and Crapo all season as they race for a championship.

2006-2007 World PowerSports Association Snocross Schedule
Nov. 24-26	AMSOIL Duluth National - Duluth, MN
Dec. 16-17	Michigan National - Gaylord, MI
Jan. 12-14	Air Force Canterbury Snocross - Shakopee, MN
Jan 25-28	Winter X Games - Aspen, CO
Feb. 10-11	Eastern National - Verona, NY
Feb. 17-18	Ski-Doo Grand Prix de Valcourt - Valcourt, Quebec, Canada
Feb. 23-25	Eagle River Snocross National - Eagle River, WI
March 10-11	West Yellowstone Snocross - West Yellowstone Park, MT
March 16-18	Nielsen Enterprises Grand Finale - Lake Geneva, WI

Powersports Equipment Sales Leaders

According to the Powersports Business Market Data Book 2006, American Honda Motor Corp. sold more powersports units in the United States than any other manufacturer for the fifth straight year in 2005. ATV, motorcycle, personal watercraft (PWC), snowmobile and utility vehicle sales figures were compiled from industry groups, OEMs and industry analysts.

Briefly

Greasing Tip

According to Chester Asher, maintenance engineer at Mittal Steel, the overgreasing of bearings or bearing housings can lead to blown seals that cause loss of lubricant, overheating, mechanical failure and safety issues. "A pressure-relief fitting can prevent overpressurization because this type of fitting will relieve and discharge grease when the proper internal pressure is obtained," says Asher.

Gearbox Tip

According to Audrei Caroline Moron of NCH Corporation, a rubber balloon can be used on vents and breathers in gearboxes where water condensation is not an issue. "It is inexpensive and keeps contaminants out, without blocking ventilation in the gearboxes," says Moron. "Compatibility of the oil with the balloon should be checked in advance by soaking the balloon in the oil to be used."

Strong Transportation Support

According to a report from the Center for Transportation Excellence (CFTE), transportation measures have won voter approval at double the rate of all ballot measures since 2000. In fact, voters in 33 states have passed 70 percent of all proposed transportation measures. More than 80 percent of the measures since 2000 have authorized financing, with support strong for a variety of financing options, including sales taxes, property taxes, bonds and dedicated fees. "These findings should embolden policymakers at all levels to continue supporting transportation investment necessary to solve the problems people obviously care about," said CFTE advisory board member Janette Sadik-Khan.

AMSOIL Holds the Line on XL Motor Oil Pricing

AMSOIL INC. has announced a roll back on its November 1, 2006 price increase on its XL motor oils. This comes in reaction to the decreases seen recently in crude oil and fuel costs, and the associated stabilization of costs on those raw materials directly related to crude oil. Dealers, customers and accounts may refer to pricing effective July 1, 2006 for accurate prices on the XL products

Other raw material costs, however, have not been affected by the dip in crude pricing. These include the high quality specialty base stocks and additives that AMSOIL incorporates into its top-tier motor oils and lubricants. The cost on these raw materials is directly related to a limited supply, and the forecast points to an even tighter market.

AMSOIL will continue to do the right thing by closely monitoring its raw material and production cost options and, when necessary, impose only those increases proportionate to those costs. Furthermore, AMSOIL will ensure that any major reductions in raw material and production costs will be passed on to its Dealers and customers, as was done for the XL products.

Note: Effective immediately, retail-on-the-shelf prices for XLM-04, XLF-04 and XLT-04 gallon containers have been decreased from $67.20 to $65.60.

Dealers and customers are encouraged to consider the following points in regard to the recent price increases:

1. Every lubricant manufacturer, not just AMSOIL, has been forced to raise prices.

2. AMSOIL has raised prices only where costs have risen, and has not raised prices where costs have not risen.

3. AMSOIL motor oils continue to save money through extended drain intervals and improved fuel economy.

4. No other lubricants on the market provide better performance or protection.

5. AMSOIL motor oils provide environmental benefits through extended drain intervals, improved fuel economy and reduced emissions.

6. AMSOIL Dealers offer customers full service through one-stop shopping with an expansive line of automotive products.

7. AMSOIL customers have the opportunity to purchase AMSOIL products at wholesale prices though the Dealer and Preferred Customer programs.

Rinker Ties World Record with Sixth Consecutive Victory

Rinker and his crew enjoy another victory lap in Hartford.

With one race remaining in the 2006 ChampBoat Series season, Team AMSOIL powerboat racer Terry Rinker has already had an incredible and unforgettable year. With his fifth straight victory, Rinker broke the ChampBoat record for consecutive wins at the Greater Chicagoland Grand Prix, setting himself up for a chance to tie the world record of six straight wins at the inaugural Grand Prix of Hartford on the Connecticut River.

Tens of thousands of race fans in Hartford witnessed history as Rinker got off to a great start and led the 50-lap race from start to finish. Although he felt pressure from Shaun Torrente and Wyatt Nelson at the end of the race, Rinker held firm and won the race by more than two seconds, tying the world record and all but assuring his second consecutive ChampBoat Series championship. Teammate Randy Rinker finished a strong sixth and holds 10th place in the points standings.

"We felt pressure all day, but we keep a close eye on our competition and did what we had to do in traffic to get the job done," said Terry. "Both Shaun and Wyatt were tough on us; I give them credit, but I want to also salute my crew for preparing another first class effort. They are the best in the business bar none."

AMSOIL Listed Among Most Popular ATV Oils

AMSOIL Formula 4-Stroke™ Power Sports Synthetic Motor Oil (AFF) offers superior protection and performance for ATVs, and AMSOIL Dealers have achieved significant penetration in the ATV market. According to a survey of ATV retailers published in the October 2006 issue of ATV Industry Magazine, Formula 4-Stroke™ Power Sports Synthetic Motor Oil is among the most popular ATV-specific oils in the marketplace.

Credit Card Security Procedures - Fraud Prevention

Because, in today's world, fraudulent credit card transactions can cause huge business losses, AMSOIL INC. has implemented a provision to protect AMSOIL and its customers. This provision prevents the processing of stolen and/or fraudulent credit card numbers and the handling of declined credit cards.

Previously, if a Dealer placed an order using the credit card of a person not registered as an AMSOIL customer, it was possible that the card had been stolen or would have been declined and charged back to AMSOIL INC. When this happened the balance became the responsibility of the Dealer since the order had been placed under the Dealer's ZO number using the non-registered person's credit card.

In order to minimize risk and protect all Dealers and AMSOIL from credit card fraud, the following policy had been implemented:

"AMSOIL will only accept credit cards from registered AMSOIL customers. AMSOIL will not process an order if the name on the card does not correspond to a registered customer or customer's business name."

If the telephone ordering person asks for the customer's AMSOIL account number, he or she will verify the customer is active and in the computer system before processing. it results in an extra step, but it is something that must be done for proper verification. AMSOIL will be verifying active registration status of the actual credit card holder for each order placed.

Briefly

Ea Oil and Air Filter Applications

AMSOIL Ea Oil (EaO) and Air Filters (EaA) offer superior efficiency, capacity and durability, extending engine and filter life. Currently, Ea Oil and Air Filters cover over 55,000 applications, with more applications being added on a consistent basis. Ea Oil Filters cover 26,433 post-1980 applications and 10,112 pre-1980 applications for a total of 36,545 applications, while Ea Air Filters cover 15,616 post-1980 applications and 2,840 pre-1980 applications for a total of 18,456 applications. In addition, Ea Motorcycle Oil Filters (EaOM) cover 1,084 applications and Ea Motorcycle Air Filters (EaAM) cover 113 applications.

Prevent Microbial Contamination

According to Noria Corporation, microbial contamination of a lubricant promotes oxidation and acid formation and has a negative effect on additives. Insoluble suspensions eventually lead to sludge, deposits and viscosity change, causing filters to plug and oilways to become blocked. Because bacteria cannot survive without water, the best defense against microorganisms is to control water contamination.

Filter Element Change Tip

When changing a filter element inside a housing, Noria Corporation recommends draining the oil from the filter housing first. There is usually a drain port near the bottom of the housing and a port on top to let air in. This practice prevents debris trapped in the element fro rinsing out when pulled through the oil in the filled housing.

Changes in the Diesel Market

New Synthetic 5W-40 Premium Diesel Oil provides superior protection for 2007 and newer diesel engines

Diesel engine emissions have been an ongoing environmental concern for the past few decades. Particulates and nitrogen oxides (NOx) associated with health problems and damaging smog and acid rain have been targeted by governments globally, and the United States, Europe and Japan have responded to demands to reduce these harmful emissions. In the U.S., particulate and NOx levels were first regulated in 1988, with regulations becoming increasingly stringent through the years. NOx forms when atmospheric nitrogen in the power-cylinder oxidizes. Because peak cylinder temperature plays a key role in NOx formation, methods of reducing the temperature, including cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) technology, have been targeted as solutions to reducing NOx emissions. Diesel particulates are composed of solid carbon (soot), sulfate, bound water and unburned fuel and oil. Because sulfur is key to particulate formation, the sulfur level in diesel fuel has been gradually decreased over the years.

In order to meet 2002 NOx emission standards, most engine manufacturers introduced low levels (10-15%) of cooled EGR technology. EGR engines reduce NOx emissions by recirculating a portion of the exhaust to the engine's combustion chamber, lowering peak combustion temperature and NOx formation. Although EGR engines effectively reduce emissions, they also run hotter and introduce higher levels of soot and acid into the oil, leading to increased wear, increased oil viscosity and shorter oil drain intervals.

The API CI-4 diesel oil specification was introduced in December 2001 to protect against the higher temperatures and increased levels of acids, soot and oxidation associated with EGR engines. API issued an upgrade to its CI-4 specification, CI-4 PLUS, in September 2004 in order to provide improved oxidation resistance, shear stability, acid neutralization and soot dispersancy for EGR engines.

AMSOIL Synthetic Diesel Oils for Pre-2007 Diesel Engines

AMSOIL offers four premium quality synthetic diesel oils for 2006 and earlier EGR equipped and non-EGR equipped diesel vehicles. AMSOIL Synthetic 15W-40 Heavy duty Diesel and Marine Motor Oil (AME), Series 3000 Synthetic 5W-30 Heavy Duty Diesel Oil (HDD), Synthetic 10W-30/SAE 30 Heavy Duty Diesel Oil (ACD) and Synthetic Blend 15W-40 Gasoline and Diesel Oil (PCO) surpass the most stringent diesel oil specifications for 2006 and earlier diesel engines, including API CI-4 PLUS. These oils offer superior protection and performance for extended drain intervals in non-EGR equipped engines, and drain intervals may be extended by oil analysis in pre-2007 EGR-equipped engines.

2007 Emission Standards

Because low levels of EGR technology were successfully applied to diesel engines to meet 2002 NOx emission standards, most manufacturers have incorporated increased EGR rates of 25-35% in their engines to meet 2007 NOx emission standards. Increased EGR rates mean 2007 diesel engines run hotter than their predecessors, requiring diesel oils with improved oxidation resistance to prevent thermal runaway and maintain engine protection.

Further decreasing the level of sulfur in diesel fuel has been determined to be the most cost-effective way to decrease particulate emissions. The introduction of Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) fuel in June 2006 dropped diesel fuel sulfur levels from 500 ppm to 15 ppm in order to meet 2007 particulate limits, provide compatibility with NOx after-treatment systems and enable high EGR rates.

In addition, in order to further reduce particulate emissions, diesel particulate filters (DPF's) have been incorporated into all 2007 American diesel engines, and diesel oils will be faced with the challenge of balancing engine protection with DPF life. Increased EGR, although effectively decreasing NOx emissions, results in less efficient combustion and increased levels of soot, and some of it finds its way into the engine oil. Detergents and dispersants within the oil are responsible for preventing soot from accumulating on internal engine components and increasing friction and wear, as well as preventing soot particles from agglomerating into larger particles that increase oil viscosity and clog oil filters. Traditionally, detergent additives in diesel oils have effectively prevented acid buildup, corrosive wear, piston deposit formation and oil consumption, while an additive known as ZDDP has effectively provided wear protection for the valve train system, front gear case, injector screws, push-rod ends and timing chains, as well as oxidation inhibition. The problem, however, is that ZDDP and many detergents contain ingredients that plug diesel particulate filters, including sulfated ash, phosphorus and sulfur.

Due to the negative effects of sulfated ash, phosphorus and sulfur on diesel particulate filters, ASTM agreed to accept limitations in these areas and incorporate new additive chemistry for diesel oil category CJ-4. Sulfated ash provides lubricity and alkalinity (TBN) to counteract acid formation during combustion. While most API CI-4 PLUS oils are composed of 1.50 percent ash, new API CJ-4 diesel oils are limited to 1.0 percent ash, dropping TBN levels from 10 to 14 with average CI-4 PLUS oils to 8 to 9 with CJ-4 oils. Lower sulfated ash, phosphorus and sulfur levels, as well as increased soot loading, affect an oil's ability to provide protection over extended drain intervals.

Synthetic 5W-40 Premium Diesel Oil

AMSOIL Synthetic 5W-40 Premium Diesel Oil (DEO) is the premium choice diesel oil for model year 2007 and newer heavy-duty and pickup truck diesel engines requiring API CJ-4 emission quality oil standards. It delivers extraordinary lubrication in diesel engines found in commercial, fleet and personal vehicles. Formulated with the latest additive technology and the most advanced synthetic base oils, Synthetic 5W-40 Premium Diesel Oil exceeds the higher performance demands of modern engines. It withstands the stress of heat, soot and acids to help prevent deposits, corrosion and wear, and its broad viscosity range offers superior protection over a wide temperature range. Synthetic 5W-40 Premium Diesel Oil resists breakdown and is recommended for the longest service interval established by the engine, vehicle or equipment manufacturer. Drain intervals may be extended when monitored by oil analysis. AMSOIL Synthetic 5W-40 Diesel Oil is a low sulfated ash, phosphorus and sulfur formulation that meets and exceeds modern specifications for emission quality diesel oil. It is compatible with all exhaust treatment devices and is designed to extend the service life of particulate filters.

AMSOIL Synthetic 5W-40 Premium Diesel Oil replaces 5W-40, 10W-40 and 15W-40 viscosity oils. It is "backwards compatible" with pre-2007 diesel engines and recommended for newer and older diesel and gasoline engines and other applications requiring the following worldwide specifications:

• API CJ-4, CI-4+, CH-4, CF
• API SM, SL, SJ...
• ACEA E7
• Mack EO-O Premium Plus
• DDC Power Guard 93K218
• caterpillar ECF-3, ECF-1
• Cummins CES 20081
• Volvo VDS-4
• MB 228.3
• MTU Type II

Synthetic 5W-40 Premium Diesel Oil may be used in pre-2007 diesel engines, but for increased protection and performance for extended drain intervals, AMSOIL continues to recommend Synthetic Heavy Duty Diesel & Marine Oil (AME), Series 3000 Synthetic 5W-30 Diesel Oil (HDD) or Synthetic 10W-30/SAE 30 Diesel Oil (ADC).