The Original Synthetic Motor Oil

Latest News and Information in the World of Lubrication

Reprinted from The Direct Line & The Action News

January-March 2006

Past issues of Auto Technology & Lubrication News

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Briefly

Ford Wants More E85 Pumps

With flexible-fuel vehicles becoming increasingly common, a top Ford official recently asked Congress to urge oil companies to install more ethanol-based fuel pumps. State officials in the Midwest claim oil companies have been slow to provide motorists with fuel composed of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline (E85), and Ford vice president of environmental and safety engineering Susan Cischke raised the issue at a Senate Energy Committee hearing on U.S. energy security. "For ethanol to be a real player in the transportation sector and lessen America's dependence on foreign oil, we need a strong, long-term focus on policies that increase U.S. ethanol production and accelerate E85 infrastructure development," Cischke told lawmakers.

Industrial Oil Change Tip

When it comes time to change oil in a complicated piece of machinery, Bill Jacobyansky, maintenance manager with Guardian Industries, describes and extra step he takes to ensure maximum equipment cleanliness. Because complicated oil supply and return lines trap particulates even when flushing agents are used, he uses a portable filter cart to add the ne oil in upstream areas and flushes the lines back toward the sump. "The new oil is then drained from the sump and refiltered until we see no visual change in between the condition of the oil that we are putting in the equipment and the oil we are draining out of the sump," says Jacobyansky. "This is done to take out the maximum amount of oxidants and contaminants in the system and give the new oil the best starting environment that we can provide."

Off-Roaders Seek Performance Products

Off-road customers demand nothing but the highest quality products for their vehicles.

The off-road enthusiast market is currently over eight million strong, and customers in this market are constantly seeking ways to improve the performance of their vehicles. According to Off-Road Retailer, 63 percent of off-roaders are self-employed, while 13 percent are craftsmen or technicians. Off-roaders spend an average of $13,000 on products for their vehicles, while seven percent spend a staggering $ 50,000 or more.

According to Jim Spoonhower, vice president of marketing research for the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), "The average off-road customer is a male in his late 30s, early 40s. That may sound surprising, but this segment is dominated by families."

Chris Ripper, general manager of Chux Trux, Inc. of Kansas City, Mo., says hardcore off-road enthusiasts seek out the best aftermarket products available and often ask friends for brand recommendations. "I think the true off-road crowd talks to each other. A lot," says Ripper. "Shows, jamborees, chat rooms clubs. Word of mouth is the best advertising for any type of business."

Off-roaders tend to be concentrated in areas near large pieces of public land, primarily the Midwest and West, but marketers note there are areas of particular regional strength spread throughout the country, with Jeep accessory sales strong in the Rocky Mountain areas and "beach buggy" style 4x4s popular along the western and southern coastlines.

The off-road market is quite varied, with enthusiasts loyal to either trucks, jeeps, SUVs, wagons or ATVs. The truck, however, dominates the market. Half of all off-roaders use a four-wheel drive truck, with another 15 percent running a two-wheel drive truck. The SUV has also been gaining popularity in recent years, due largely to advertisements picturing the vehicles in rugged off-road environments. The Jeep, the "founding father" of off-roading, also maintains a healthy and extremely loyal fan base.

The 1970s saw the introduction of the all-terrain vehicle (ATV) to the off-road market. Soon, the market was full of a variety of models to suit a wide range of riders. Buyers often come from families already involved in off-roading. Currently, ATVs account for about 11 percent of the off-road market.

According to Jon Wyly, vice president of Arrow Speed Warehouse in Kansas City, Mo., most four-wheel upgrades include winches, larger tires, lift kits and shocks. "In years past, our business as a distributor was typically about 30 percent truck/off-road and about 70 percent performance," says Wyly. "In the last few years, our mix has moved to about a 50/50 split."

Off-roaders want performance parts that will allow their vehicles to maneuver over larger obstacles and rugged terrain, and manufacturers have responded by creating accessories that lift vehicles higher and provide greater low-end torque. Durability is also important, with manufacturers introducing heavy-duty mufflers and exhaust systems that resist rust and burning and feature reinforced bulkheads.

While some customers prefer to continually upgrade their vehicles with more and more off-road capabilities, others are dedicated to one or two single activities. Rock crawling, for example, is quickly becoming a popular activity within the off-road segment. For rock crawling enthusiasts who can't afford specialty vehicles, companies such as Holley offer products that allow consumers to engage in the activity with an older vehicle. For example, new fuel injection systems replace carburetors and provide constant fuel feed even when the vehicle is positioned at a sharp angle.

Off-roaders are passionate about their vehicles, and targeting the off-road segment can be very beneficial. According to Wyly, it is important to learn as much as possible about off-roading and off-roading equipment in order to connect with customers. "You really need to look like you're in the business and be able to talk the tech," says Wyly.

AMSOIL synthetic motor oils are ideal for off-road enthusiasts concerned about protection and performance of their vehicles. AMSOIL synthetic motor oils effectively reduce friction for quicker engine response and increased horsepower, while also providing second-to-none wear protection for extended equipment life.

Briefly

Automakers Seek Partnerships with Partsmakers

According to Automotive News, in order to minimize the stress of rising prices, supplier overcapacity and competition, more automakers are increasing efforts to partner with partsmakers. According to Mark Adams, senior general manager for Toyota purchasing in Europe, Toyota has maintained a collaborative relationship with its suppliers for years in order to assure low costs and top quality. Ford and Fiat Auto recently entered a long-term agreements with selected suppliers of key components globally to create a stronger, sustainable business model," says Ford of Europe vice president of purchasing Birgit Behrendt.

Minimize Lubricant Contamination

According to Lubrication Fundamentals, lubricant contamination and resulting equipment damage can be minimized by following a few simple precautions during storage and transfer of lubricants from the original container to the dispensing equipment of the equipment being lubricated. "Pumps, oil cans, grease guns measures, funnels and other dispensing equipment must be kept clean at all times and covered when not in use. Where operating conditions justify them, centralized dispensing or lubrication systems that keep the lubricants in closed systems and, therefore, protected against contamination, are highly recommended."

Proper RV Maintenance

Ensure optimum RV performance with proper transmission and hydraulic system maintenance.

Small contaminants within a RV's transmission and hydraulic systems can hold a spool valve open and prevent pressure from reaching the power steering gear, cooling fans and transmission shifter. With the RV season just around the corner, understanding and performing proper fluid and filter maintenance will ensure efficient and trouble-free operation throughout the entire season.

Normal wear and tear of transmission and hydraulic system parts introduce harmful contaminants into the oil. When hoses and housings flex, they create shock and pressure that cause particles of metal and casting material to break free and enter the lubricant stream. Further contaminants enter the hydraulic reservoir through the air, and the system is subject to tainting whenever a line is cracked to service a component.

Proper filter maintenance is one of the most effective methods to combat contaminants. Changing transmission and hydraulic system filters at the proper intervals can save significant repair expenses. The RV operations manual should be consulted to determine the quantity, locations and recommended change intervals of the various system filters. Many applications recommend the main transmission filter be changed after the first 5,000 miles and the hydraulic filters for the power steering and cooling fans be changed each year of every 15,000 miles.

Maintaining proper fluid levels is also important to ensure peak performance. Whether using a dipstick or the transmission shift pad, transmission fluid levels should be checked when the RV is parked on a level surface and running at normal operating temperature.

Lubricant top-off is usually required following a filter change. After changing the filter, start and run the engine on a level surface and once the transmission reaches normal operating temperature, check the fluid level and add more as needed. Because it picks up debris, avoid reusing fluid that falls in the drip pan.

Regular weighing of an RV is an important part of protecting the transmission. Keeping the front axle within the recommended weight rating helps prevent the possibility of excess weight overloading the steering gear and negatively affecting how the vehicle handles while driving.

RVs equipped with analog temperature gauges sense the temperature of the converter, the hottest point of the transmission oil. Maximum temperature on an analog gauge is about 300 degrees F. RVs equipped with an Aladdin system make use of more accurate digital temperature reading. When it senses overheating, the transmission seeks a lower gear in order to increase RPM, which in turn increases air, water and oil flow that will help cool the transmission.

AMSOIL offers premium lubricants and filters to keep RVs operating trouble-free through the most severe summer operating conditions. AMSOIL Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid offers second-to-none protection and performance for extended drain intervals, while Donaldson and WIX transmission and hydraulic filters available from AMSOIL offer industry-leading filtration efficiency.

Most Popular Trucks

According to a SEMA study, the majority of pickup owners are between the ages of 35 and 64. Various age groups show preferences for different models, with younger drivers between 18 and 44 preferring the Dodge Ram, Drivers between 45 and 54 preferring the Ford F-Series, drivers between 55 and 64 preferring the Cadillac Escalade EXT, drivers between 65 and 74 preferring the GMC Sierra and drivers 75 and older preferring the Cadillac Escalade EXT.

Young Drivers Uncomfortable Changing Oil

According to a national survey conducted by Opinion Research Corporation, only 48 percent of recent high school and college graduates know how to change their vehicle's oil. The survey also reveals the majority of those polled would be more comfortable taking a final exam or fixing their computer than changing their vehicle's oil.

"By 2010, the U.S. Census Bureau estimates there will be 21 million teens of driving age," says Lisa Carlson, global director of marketing for Jiffy Lube International. "Many of these young drivers could find themselves headed for the breakdown lane. Proper vehicle maintenance is an important life skill that can be easily overlooked in the excitement of getting a driver's license and first car. Good car care habits can save a lot of time, expense and inconvenience later."

Offering superior protection and performance and drain intervals of up to 35,000 miles or one year in normal service and up to 17,500 miles or one year in severe service, AMSOIL synthetic motor oils are ideal for young drivers uncomfortable performing vehicle maintenance.

Briefly

Bush Supports Ethanol

In his State of the Union address, President Bush stated his desire to see ethanol-based fuel become competitive with gasoline within six years as part of a plan to replace 75 percent of American oil imports from the Middle East by 2025. American automakers already produce hundreds of thousands of flexible fuel vehicles each year that can use either gasoline or E85. E85 is composed of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline, and about 600 gas stations, mostly in the Midwest, currently offer it. Both GM and Ford believe E85 is a realistic alternative to gasoline and are seeking ways to expand its availability and increase consumer demand.

High Temps and Gear Oil

High temperatures have a thinning effect on oil viscosity. As a result, the ability of a gear oil to support a load decreases as temperatures increase. The rate of viscosity change is different for each oil, with the rate of change expressed as the Viscosity Index (VI) number. The higher a lubricant's VI number, the less effect heat has on its viscosity. According to Noria Corporation, "If you have a gear box running at high-temperatures that seems to have a low reliability rating, check to see if the oil has a suitable VI, and is capable of holding up under the high temperatures. If the product's VI is less than 120, as shown on the product data sheet, then consider an alternative oil for the high-temperature, heavily loaded application." AMSOIL synthetic gear lubes all feature VI numbers over 120, providing superior protection in high temperature applications.

Briefly

Small Vehicles Projected To Be A Big Hit

With new models and concepts recently introduced by Ford, Toyota, Honda and Nissan, small cars are projected to be the next big thing to hit the U.S. market. Planners believe Generation Y customers (drivers through age 29) are largely unable to afford SUVs and crossover vehicles, and they plan to tap into this market by introducing inexpensive smaller vehicles. Toyota already offers its popular Scion brand, an inexpensive car with an abundance of accessories, and soon plans to introduce it Yaris model with a $10,050 base price. With the fuel tank situated in the center of the vehicle, Honda's Fit model offers almost as much interior space as its Accord model and almost as much cargo space as its Element model. "The segment isn't what it used to be," says Michael Robinet, head of forecasting for CSM Worldwide in Farmington Hills, Mich. "They're not penalty boxes anymore. The manufacturers have solved a lot of old issues with better design and accessories."

Extend Bearing Life

According to Lubrication Fundamentals, solid particles trapped between the rolling elements and raceways are the most common cause of shortened bearing life. In order to extend bearing life, it is essential to keep dirt away as much as possible and change lubricants before oxidation contributes to deposit buildup. Oxidation-inhibited lubricants can significantly extend the length of time lubricants can be left in service.

The Importance of Clean Fuel

Clean fuel takes on increased importance in today's low emission heavy duty trucks.

In order to meet increasingly tight emissions regulations in the heavy duty truck market, injection pressures as high as 30,000 psi are becoming increasingly common. Tolerances and clearances in the injection pump and injectors are becoming smaller and smaller as a result, making fuel cleanliness increasingly important.

Fuel Filtration

Fuel filtration is taking on an important role in the quest for cleaner fuel. According to WIX senior technical services manager Chris Greeson, everyone in the industry is seeking improved fuel filtration, but few realize that increased efficiency often comes at the expense of capacity. The more contaminants the fuel filter catches, the quicker the media fills up and requires changing. Larger fuel filters constructed with efficient synthetic media are effective in order to capture more contaminants and counter shorter change intervals.

Change Intervals

It is important to change fuel filters before they plug and impact driveablilty. Dirty fuel and cold weather operation can often plug filters quicker than normal. "When I was in the field as a filter salesperson, I carried extra fuel filters with me in my company car," says Greeson. "When the weather got cold, I gave a lot of them away on the side of the road. I was surprised at how many over-the-road trucks don't carry extra fuel filters with them."

According to FleetNet America, fuel filters are one of the top 10 reasons trucks require breakdown service. Fleet drivers can save both time and money by carrying extra fuel filters with them on the road.

Opening used filters and looking at the subassembly can provide valuable clues regarding the quality of the fuel used and filter change intervals. A black and oily subassembly reveals poor fuel quality and too long a change interval, while red sludge indicates a rusty fuel tank. Used filter should be dark, with no obvious signs of contaminant build-up.

Cold Weather

When the weather turns cold, water in diesel fuel forms ice crystals and causes filter plugging. Often, this problem is misdiagnosed as fuel gelling (wax crystal formation), which generally occurs at colder temperatures than ice formation. To diagnose the problem, remove and drain the filter and place it on a piece of filter paper of blotter that will absorb the fuel. If the blotter gets wet as the filter warms up, ice crystals were the source of the problem. If it's a wax problem, the wax will remain in the filter.

To avoid cold weather problems, be sure water is drained from the saddle tanks and fuel delivery system before cold weather sets in. AMSOIL Diesel Fuel Additive Concentrate can be used to combat fuel gelling problems, lowering gel points by 20 to 35 degrees F.

Cleanliness

Contaminants often enter fuel systems during routine maintenance such as changing fuel filters, fuel lines and injectors. In order to avoid such contamination, it is important to work in a clean environment and clean parts and their surrounding areas before removing filters or parts. Because rags and shop towels can leave behind lint and fibers, compressed air is a better choice for drying and cleaning parts.

Clean fuel

According to Matt Stein, lead engineer for engine liquid filtration at Donaldson, people commonly blame plugged fuel filters on the filters themselves, rather than the fuel quality. Fuel should be purchased from reputable suppliers who keep clean facilities and have reasonably high fuel turnover. If a facility looks dirty or if it doesn't look like the pump filters get changed on a regular basis, there's a good chance the fuel is dirty. For those who keep their own fuel supply, it is important to have a filter on the dispensing unit before it enters the truck. Drivers should also be certain the saddle tank is free of contaminants that could enter the tank while fueling.

AMSOIL carries the full line of premium Donaldson replacement fuel filters, featuring the latest advances in filter media that make the difference between engine power and engine problems.

Briefly

Ford Partners with VeraSun to Increase E85 Availability

Ford Motor Company recently announced a partnership with renewable energy company VeraSun Energy Corporation. The partnership's goal is to increase the number of gas stations offering E85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline. Approximately five million flexible fuel vehicles (FFVs) capable of running E85 are on the road, but two challenges facing greater growth of the market are access to convenient fueling locations and lack of consumer awareness. Currently, only around 500 gas stations in the U.S. offer E85. Ford offers four new 2006 vehicle models with the flexible fuel option: the Ford F-150, Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis and Lincoln Town Car.

Greasing Tip

According to Machinery Failure Analysts and Troubleshooting, bearings generally require minimal quantities of lubricant at any one time, but a supply must be readily available. However, a larger quantity is required if the lubricant is also serving as a heat-removal medium. Insufficient lubrication at medium to high speeds leads to temperature increases and usually a whistling sound, while excessive lubrication leads to sharp temperature increases due to churning in all but exceptionally low-speed bearings. Conditions that produce abnormally high temperatures can negatively affect the protection and performance qualities of an otherwise adequate lubricant.

Most Important Automotive Industry Issues of 2005

According to Automotive Design and Production, the following were the 10 most important issues facing automobile manufacturers and suppliers in 2005:

Volatile Crude Oil Market

Oil price volatility affects consumer confidence, prices of materials and fuel inefficient vehicle models.

Volatile Material Prices

Increasing steel and plastic prices affect the profit margins of large and small suppliers.

New Vehicle Launches

A record number of new vehicle launches put financial pressure on manufacturers and suppliers. Many must redesign their business models to accommodate shorter product life cycles and smaller production runs.

Electronics

Modern vehicles are incorporating more and more electronics, including satellite radio and portable electronic devices that blur the lines between customers' vehicles, homes and offices. Such devices have quick design cycles that manufacturers and suppliers must consider when designing vehicles.

Supply Base

Distress in the supply base led to a record number of mergers and acquisitions.

China

China consumes a large supply of materials and continues to expand its domestic industry, impacting the automotive industry.

Globalization

Many multi-regional companies have not yet successfully transformed into globalized companies sensitive to the differences between world markets.

Horsepower and Performance

North American consumers are demanding more horsepower and better performance from their vehicles.

Hybrid Vehicles

Hybrids are becoming increasingly popular and manufacturers are struggling to keep up with demand.

Changing Guard

Between 1995 and 2003, 45 percent of OEM middle and upper managers retired. This changing of the guard has the potential to change the nature of relationships between the various levels of the automotive value chain.

High Quality Base Oils Essential for Extended Drain Lubricants

According to General Motors, the average drain interval is 8,500 miles in its 2005 model year vehicles equipped with Engine Oil Life Systems, while competing vehicles average 5,000 mile intervals. GM projects an annual savings of 6.6 million gallons of oil and $145 million for owners of these vehicles and foresees even longer motor oil drain intervals and fill-for-life transmission fluids in the near future.

Michael McMillan of General Motors believes improved motor oil performance is required due to increasing use of spark-ignited direct-injection and turbocharged engines, sludge problems experienced by certain vehicle models and increasing drain interval recommendations made by vehicle manufacturers.

McMillan believes higher quality base oils are the key to creating longer drain lubricants. "In the past, performance was perceived as relying primarily on additive performance," says McMillan. "Base oil performance was considered minor. If you had wear or oxidation problems, you added more ZDDP (zinc dialkyldithiophosphate), for deposits, more deposit inhibitors; for pumpability, more pour point depressants; for fuel economy, more friction modifiers; and for foam, more silicone."

As vehicle technology continues improving, and fuel economy and emission regulations continue tightening, vehicle will continue to require premium lubricants blended with high quality base oils.

Note:
You'll not find better use of quality base oils than the PAO based AMSOIL Synthetic Motor oils!

Briefly

Satisfied RV Owners

According to the 2005 Consumer Satisfaction Survey commissioned by the Go RVing Coalition's Committee on Excellence, the vast majority of towable (96 percent) and motorhome (94 percent) owners intend to continue RVing over the next five years. In addition, 82 percent of towable owners are completely or very satisfied with their product and 81 percent would recommend the same make and model to a friend. Results are based on 11,187 responses from 2004 model year RV owners.

Tax Credits for Fuel Efficient Diesels

Consumers who purchase select new diesel cars, light trucks and SUVs are eligible for up to $3,400 in tax credits based on the vehicle's weight, fuel efficiency rating and emissions level, as determined by the Environmental Protection Agency. The credit is available from January 1, 2006 through December 31, 2010.

Contamination Control Tip

According to the book Fluid Contamination Control, the key to controlling lubricant contamination is knowing the source. It pinpoints the three most common sources of contamination as the following:

1) Contaminants implanted during manufacturing or through maintenance, repair and overhaul procedures.

2) Contaminants created by the system tribologically, chemically or by desorption.

3) Contaminants ingested by the machine by inhalation of dust, air and water; encroachment of energy and migration of microbes.

Proper Lubricant Storage

Proper storage environment and handling practices extend lubricant shelf life.

The environment in which lubricants are stored greatly affects their shelf life. Because lubricants are not always stored under ideal conditions, it is difficult to identify a specific shelf life, and recommended shelf lives cited by manufacturers often differ considerably.

A number of factors affect a lubricant's shelf life:

Product Design

Some formulation chemistries and additives are more aggressive than others. The nature of the chemistry can affect lubricant shelf life.

Storage Temperature

High heat (above 100 degrees F) and extreme cold (below 0 degrees F) can affect lubricant stability. Ideal storage temperatures are between 45 and 80 degrees F.

Water

Water can promote microbial growth, as well as react with additives to form insoluble materials. The presence of water is often the result of improper handling procedures or condensation. Water condensation can occur when storage temperatures fluctuate over a wide temperature range.

Contamination

Elements such as iron and copper can be introduced in the lubricant through improper handling, storage and use of equipment catalyzing the lubricant oxidation process and shortening shelf life.

Frequent Agitation

Frequent agitation of an open lubricant container can incorporate air into the oil. Oxygen can react with the lubricant and affect viscosity and consistency. Agitation can also emulsify water into the oil and increase the rate of lubricant degradation.

Light

In some cases, light may impact the color and appearance of lubricants.

Ideal Storage Tips

1) Store lubricants in a cool, clean, dry indoor area.

2) Store lubricants at a temperature between 45 and 80 degrees F and be sure storage temperature does not fluctuate significantly.

3) When storing large lubricant containers outside for extended periods of time, prevent dust and moisture from entering the container.

4) Store grease containers right side up to prevent bleeding (fluid separation). Bleeding is a common problem at higher temperatures.

5) Wipe tops and edges of containers before opening to avoid contamination from improper handling.

6) Always use clean tools.

Common signs of improper storage of contamination include layering within the fluid, formation of solid particles and color change or hazy appearance. If any of these conditions are discovered, it is advisable to properly dispose of the product. In some instances a lubricant can be tested to determine its servieability. If test results are within the original specifications, the lubricant should be suitable for use. Because equipment design and specifications change over time, it is also advisable to validate the product's performance claims against the equipment manufacturer's current specifications.

When AMSOIL lubricants are stored under ideal conditions, a five year shelf life should be used as a general guideline. Exercise care when using lubricants that have been stored for long periods of time. The lubricants can be tested in a laboratory to assure their integrity and must be carefully evaluate against their listed chemical and physical properties to ensure no irreversible changes took place. Physical evaluation of grease is a good practice to ensure proper consistency and no excessive bleeding.

Eleven Licensed Oils Fail API Testing

The results of the American Petroleum Institute's 2004 engine oil aftermarket audit program, which tests the quality of API-licensed motor oils found in the retail market, reveal that 11 of 611 motor oil samples were "nonconforming." Nonconforming oils either had incorrect additive treat levels, failed the cold cranking limit, were not the correct viscosity grade or were otherwise deficient. Two of the 11 nonconforming oils were found to have "significant nonconformances" that could cause engine damage.

Twenty-eight percent of API's 529 licensees had at least one product sampled for the 2004 audit, with 20 percent of the samples obtained from bulk oil sites, 38 percent from quick lubes, 27 percent from auto repair shops and the balance from service stations, car dealers and truck facilities. Passenger car motor oils comprised 79 percent of the samples, while the rest were heavy-duty motor oils. Samples included 10W-30 (30%), 15W-40 (19%), 5W-30 (17%) and 5W-20 (6%) viscosity grades, and 18 percent of the samples were obtained outside the United States and Canada.

In order to remain licensed, the nonconforming oils had to undergo additional third-party physical and chemical testing. One oil passed the additional requirements and retained its license, while another also met the additional requirements and had its license briefly reinstated before being caught committing the same offense.

According to Kevin Ferrick of the API, "API did not require the removal of any of the oils of the nonconforming licensee from the marketplace while the additional testing was under way, during the enforcement action or later."