The Original Synthetic Motor Oil

Lubrication News August-December 2003

August-December 2003

Past issues of Auto Technology & Lubrication News

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Briefly

Synthetic Oils Show Growth

According to the new National Petrochemical and Refiners Association's 2002 Report on U.S. Lubricating Oils and Wax Sales, lubricant sales volume in the United States fell to its lowest level in a decade. Dropping 0.4 percent overall, slight increases in sales of automotive oils and greases were outweighed by a 2.2 percent drop in the industrial market. Sales of synthetic and synthetic blend lubricants showed healthy growth, increasing 5.2 percent and 9.6 percent, respectively. Multigrade oil sales rose four percent, while monograde oil sales fell 18.6 percent, now representing only 3.5 percent of the market.

High Mileage Oils Crowd Market

Competition in the "high mileage" motor oil market is steadily increasing. The Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo in Las Vegas last month saw the introduction of four new oils marketed for vehicles with more than 75,000 miles, including one from ConocoPhillips, one from ExxonMobil and two from ChevronTexaco. They join Valvoline, Quaker State, Castrol, Mobil and Pennzoil in marketing oils that claim to maintain viscosity and protect old seals, fighting oil leaks and reducing deposits in older vehicles. Because oils marketed toward high mileage vehicles cost more than standard oils, lubricant companies have increased profits. "We're all wrestling with that [lack of growth in overall demand] and saying that our ticket out of this is that we need to innovate," says Blair Boggs of Valvoline. AMSOIL motor oils offer superior protection for both old and new vehicles, effectively curbing many of the problems associated with older vehicles and keeping them running in top condition.

GF-4 on the Horizon

What benefits will motorists see with new GF-4 motor oils?

Work on the GF-4 motor oil specification began in 2000, before the current GF-3 specification was even approved. ILSAC/Oil officially declared a need for GF-4 on January 15 of this year and introduced its final draft specifications on August 4.

The primary issues addressed with GF-4 include emission systems protection, improved fuel economy and fuel economy retention, improved oil robustness and backward compatibility with older engines. What do the experts think of GF-4?

"GF-4 moves well beyond GF-3 in increased oxidation protection to handle severe operating conditions, such as Las Vegas taxi service, and increased piston deposit protection which will maintain piston cleanliness in the longer lifetimes of newer, higher-performance engines which run at maximum piston deposit temperatures allowed for in aluminum pistons. Increased fuel economy and emission system protection are additional, strong GF-4 advantages."
- Bob Olree, General Motors

"GF-4 is a significant upgrade over GF-3 and will provide benefits for both the consumer and environment, although actual 'visible' indications may be subtle. GF-4 oils will provide improved oil thickening control due to [better] oxidation and used oil pumpability, cleaner pistons and rings, and somewhat lower valve-train wear - evident to the consumer in terms of improved engine and emissions system durability."
- Dan Sheets, Lubrizol

"GF-4 should be a benefit. It imposes higher performance requirements and allows automakers to meet stricter EPA standards. However, ILMA sees problems. Potential increased oil consumption has not been adequately addressed. Increased leakage into the environment may result if GF-4 products are recommended with a different viscosity grade than in owner's manuals."
- Celeste M. Powers, Independent Lubricant Manufacturers Association (ILSAC)

"GF-4 is a step change in an oil's ability to protect vehicles against deposits and oxidation. If consumers change their oil as recommended by manufacturers, their engines and emissions systems should be well protected with these new oils. Meeting 2004 federal emission standards and OEM warranty requirements should help the environment and save consumers and OEMs from expensive repairs."
- Joan Evans and Steve Haffner, Infineum

AMSOIL synthetic motor oils surpass the most stringent worldwide specifications and provide second-to-none protection and performance. Fuel efficiency is maximized, while oil consumption and deposits are kept to a minimum, effectively protecting emission systems.

Briefly

GM Ready to Jump Into Hybrid Market

General Motors has revealed plans to install full hybrid powertrains in its Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra trucks and full size Tahoe and Yukon SUVs by 2007. The vehicles will also be outfitted with displacement on demand technology, shutting down unneeded cylinders at highway speeds. Because the electric motors will propel the vehicles at slow speeds, they are classified as "strong hybrids." GM predicts fuel savings of 30 percent, meaning a V-8 hybrid GM full size pickup or SUV would get 20 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. GM's first "mild hybrid" Chevrolet Silverado will begin production this year. Its electric motor boosts acceleration and produces electricity to power household accessories. Ford Motor Company will begin production of its mid size hybrid Escape HEV in July, followed by a hybrid Futura sedan. DaimlerChrysler plans to introduce a hybrid Ram pickup in about a year.

Lubricant Line Tip

According to Spencer Anderson, PDM Tech, A.E. Staley, if running lubricant lines to out-of-reach bearings, it is advisable to use 3/8-inch diameter tubing rather than 1/4-inch. Not only will the larger opening require less pressure on grease guns, it is less likely to overpressurize the tubing. In addition, before making the final connection to the bearings, it is a good idea to purge the line with the appropriate lubricant. Then connect the fitting to the bearings.

Increased Popularity of Mobile Lubes

AMSOIL is amoung the best selling synthetics in the growing mobile lube market.

Mobile lube services offer onsite oil changes and other services for fleets and individuals. Every year National Oil & Lube News conducts its Mobile Lube Survey to determine patterns in advertising, operations and sales.

Although mobile lubes and quick lubes offer similar services, marketing methods and customers are quite different. Mobile lubes rely heavily on word-of-mouth advertising. In fact, 40 percent of mobile lube operators list it as their best form of advertising.

In addition to word-of-mouth advertising, effective marketing strategies are also important. "In this business you must find your customers, not the other way around," says Len Estevez, president of Lube N' Go Mobile Oil Change Company. "Marketing your business professionally by using telemarketers, informative brochures, flyers and visiting businesses face to face about your service is essential to becoming successful in this unique service business.

Unlike quick lubes and fixed lube sites who primarily service individual customers, the target customers for mobile lubes are fleets. Fixed lube sites report only 11 percent of their business comes from fleets, while mobile lube operators report 69 percent of their business comes from fleets.

"We have grown our customer base to include many of the city's leading corporations including Oklahoma Natural Gas, Blue Bell Creameries, Brink's Armored Car Service, Federal Express, Wells Fargo and Enterprise Rent-a-Car," says Bob Davis, owner of Tour de Lube in Oklahoma City, Okla. "We also maintain police, fire and ambulance units for several smaller cities as well as vending, courier and service companies."

Mobile lube operators offer convenience for both fleets and private individuals, and some operators focus primarily on serving individuals. "I am doing a larger percentage of private party than fleet," says Rod Beydler, owner of Rod's Mobile Lube in Hesperia, Calif. "I service cars and light trucks on a ramp trailer. It allows me to work just about anywhere - even parked on the side of the road. I do a lot of work at office complexes."

In order to increase their bottom lines, many mobile lubes are branching out and offering additional services. "New technology has introduced new services that can be performed onsite," explains Estevez. "For example, coolant flushes and transmission flushes can be performed on site and can be very profitable."

Rising real estate costs and increased interest in contracting out fleet services means mobile lube businesses will continue to grow and prosper in the future. "The rising cost of real estate is contributing to entrepreneurs seeking a less expensive opportunity to break into the quick lube business," says Estevez. "As businesses and the general public become educated about this service and how it can save them both time and money, you'll see more mobile lube operations across the country."

Survey results indicate that synthetic motor oils are popular in the mobile lube market, with 73 percent of operators offering them. AMSOIL already has a significant presence, registering as the third best-selling synthetic in the mobile lube market.

The growing mobile lube market offers excellent opportunity for AMSOIL Dealers. The AMSOIL XL-7500 Oil Change Program offers quick and mobile lube operators a higher profit potential, while offering customers superior protection and performance for extended drain intervals.

Proper Vehicle Maintenance for the College Student

A recent Internet survey sponsored by Jiffy Lube International reveals that one-third of college students with cars claim they should have changed oil more often in the last school year.

Of students who changed their oil two of fewer times during the school year, 32 percent said they meant to change oil, but they forgot. Another 18 percent blamed their busy schedules, and 15 percent couldn't afford the price of oil changes. Fifteen percent of survey respondents said they assumed someone else would take care of the oil changes, while another 20 percent said they didn't know the oil needed changing or claimed it wasn't necessary at the time.

"While most students changed their oil at least once during the school year, many of them acknowledge that they don't keep a regular maintenance schedule," says Anne Tawney, vice president of marketing with Jiffy Lube International. "Routine maintenance is the easiest way to prevent a costlier breakdown later on."

The extended drain intervals and superior protection offered by AMSOIL synthetic motor oils are ideal for busy, cash-strapped college students. AMSOIL motor oils offer drain intervals of up to 35,000 miles/one year, significantly reducing time and money spent on traditional 3,000 mile/three month oil changes. Further savings are realized through increases in fuel economy, while the superior lubricating protection decreases money spent on maintenance and repairs

Briefly

Too Much Oil

What happens when too much oil is added to an engine? According to Scotti Lee, operator of Oil Change Express in New Castle, Del., results vary with different engines, but general symptoms include oil smoking out the tailpipe, excess oil squirting out of the dipstick tube and oil agitation and foam. The severity of oil agitation depends on how much oil is in the pan, how old the oil is and how far the crankshaft reaches into the pan. Agitated oil affects the performance of the oil pump, which can lead to oil starvation and increased temperatures. Engine manufacturers include a certain amount of "cheat space" for instances when oil is accidentally overfilled. "An Example I personally witnessed was with a vehicle that came into my shop with oil registering eight to inches above the full mark on its dipstick," says Lee. "This generally means the crankcase was holding six to eight quarts of oil over its design specifications. It is instances like these that you'll notice a smoking tailpipe/squirting oil from the dipstick." The vehicle performed fine after being restored to its proper lubricant level.

Clean Bearings

According to the "Rolling Bearings Handbook and Troubleshooting Guide," after cleaning bearings with kerosene, mineral spirits or special commercial solvents, they are extremely vulnerable to corrosion and mechanical damage. They should be protected or lubricated as soon as possible and should not come into contact with bare hands.

The Exciting Future of Automobiles

New technologies will improve fuel efficiency, increase safety and aid navigation and repair.

Bernd Bohn of German auto components company Robert Bosch recently predicted that internal combustion engines will continue to dominate the automotive market well into the 21st Century. Automotive manufacturers have invested considerable time and effort in attempts to improve fuel efficiency in these engines, and they've been successful. In fact, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates engines have become 30 percent more fuel efficient over the past 15 years. However, the gains have been offset by the introduction of increasingly bigger more powerful engines. The average engine is 63 percent more powerful than 20 years ago.

John Heywood, director of the Sloan Automotive Laboratory at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, estimates new technology will reduce fuel consumption by a third by 2020 and half by 2030. Gasoline-electric hybrid vehicles and modern diesel engines are significantly more fuel efficient than their gasoline counterparts, but new technology in gasoline engines is also expected to reduce fuel consumption.

Next year, General Motors will begin introducing "displacement on demand" technology in their engines, reducing fuel consumption by eight percent by using only half their cylinders during most normal driving. GM predicts another seven to 11 percent in fuel savings can be achieved through use of continuously variable automatic transmissions.

More advanced variable valve controls, already in the works at BMW, are expected to further increase fuel savings, while Bosch has recently developed its Directstart system. The system allows the engine to shut off while idling, but it instantly restarts as soon as the driver touches the gas pedal, igniting the combustion mixture in the fuel injection system without engaging the starter motor. Bosch predicts fuel savings of five percent with the Directstart system.

New and exciting automotive technology goes far beyond fuel economy improvements. "I've been involved (with auto research) for more than 30 years, and there's more action and more promise for improvement now than I've ever seen," says Heywood.

New technology expected to hit the marketplace within the next decade:

1) Active safety systems

Active safety systems will include radar and cameras that watch for danger. "We've put airbags just about every place you can," says Toyota product-planning manager John Weiner. "Within the next five years, the car will use algorithms to anticipate hazards and intervene or warn the driver."

2) Keyless entry

Already implemented on certain Cadillac, Infiniti and BMW models, credit-card style systems will replace car keys. Keyless entry will be introduced on around 40 different vehicles in the next three years.

3) Navigation systems

Every new car will have computer-like screens on the dash, displaying navigation systems that employ global positioning satelite and onboard DVDs to provide the driver with directions, maps and information on businesses such as hotels, hospitals and restaurants. The video screens will also have the capability to connect to PDAs and cellular phones.

4) Wi-Fi hookups

Almost every vehicle will have Wi-Fi hookups that provide weather information, news and other information. "We're going to see hot spots in places like gas stations and restaurants," says peter Wengert, marketing manager for automotive products at Microsoft.

5) Data collection

Vehicles will have the capability to collect pertinent data that can be shared with dealers, manufacturers and other vehicles, helping service personnel perform remote diagnostics and help troubleshoot for a broken down motorist.

6) Onboard cameras

Onboard cameras will help detect blind spots, while helping parents watch their kids. Many vehicles will have cameras installed in the front bumper to help drivers "see" around corners.

7) 40-volt electrical systems

Forty-volt electrical systems will become standard to accommodate the new electronic devices.

8) Voice commands

Already in use in certain BMW, Jaguar and Lexus models, voice commands will become common and necessary in order to operate the various functions in cars.

9) Electronic pedals

Already in use in Mercedes, Chevy Corvette and all recent Audi vehicles, brake-by-wire pedals send an electronic signal rather than activating a physical connection to the engine and brakes. Emergency brake handles will also be replaced by electronic switches.

10) Programmable vehicles

Vehicles will be increasingly programmable. "We have a vision that you can use electronics to let you choose what kind of vehicle you want to drive," says Stanford professor of mechanical engineering Chris Gerdes. "You can have it be sporty or luxurious, as you choose." Drivers of the new Audi A8, for example, can change the car's ride by raising and lowering road clearance.

As vehicles become increasingly sophisticated, motorists will be interested in protecting their investments with top-of-the-line synthetic lubricants. AMSOIL synthetic lubricants provide superior protection and performance, keeping vehicles running in top condition and maximizing fuel efficiency.

Briefly

Quick Lubes For Trucking Fleets

A new study reveals a shift beginning in the commercial truck market. According to Kline and Co. of Little Falls, N.J., the do-it-for-me segment of the heavy duty lubricant market is in a position to expand due to efforts to target fleet operators that normally perform their own maintenance. "The stumbling blocks for quick lube centers and truck stops to the point have been the range and quality of services and price," said Geeta Agashe, director of Kline's Petroleum and Energy Practices. "But these [obstacles] are now being removed," the study shows that many quick lubes and truck stops have expanded their repair and replacement services, and some have partnered with major lubricant suppliers and original equipment manufacturers to ease customer concerns about quality. "The price points offered by quick lubes and truck stops are already low enough to attract some interest from trucking fleets," added Agashe, "and they're likely to go down further as some chains plan to expand and competition heats up. Although the overall market for commercial automotive lubricants is mature and is expected to remain flat, the quick lube and truck stop chains are expected to take a bigger slice of the pie."

Grease Fitting Tip

Randy Norton, plant maintenance optimization coordinator with Tucson Electric Power Company, recommends purging new grease fittings with a grease gun before installation, using the same grease that will be used for regreasing. It will not only remove any present dust, burrs and debris, but it will reduce the chance of grease cross contamination.

Discount Additives

Using obsolete and"knockoff" additive packages can lower blending expenses, but at what cost?

In recent years, small additive companies have sprung up offering motor oil formulators additive packages not intended for modern, licensed oil formulas, marketing them as cheap alternatives that offer average performance for certain applications. Critics, namely the major additive companies, warn that potential performance problems may arise with use of these "knockoff" additives.

Petroleum Chemicals Marketing Services of Sacramento, Calif., specializes in selling surplus additives. Most of these additives are overstocks purchased from large oil companies who stopped using them after a new lubricant standard was implemented.

"These things have a way of getting lost in warehouses and accumulating over time," says sales manager Bob Scheetz. "By the time someone notices, they've got a hundred, maybe a thousand drums that they can't use."

Rather than paying disposal fees, motor oil blenders are more than happy to cheaply sell obsolete additive supplies to Petroleum chemicals, who unload as much as they can to other lubricant blenders. Sometimes the additives are sold "as is," while other times packages are blended together before they're sold.

Brian Cereghino, general manager of IPAC of Dublin, Calif., claims unapproved additive packages only comprise three percent of the company's revenue and most are shipped out of the country. According to Scheetz, over half of Petroleum Chemicals' additives are exported outside the United States, while the rest make their way into domestic motor oils. He sees the company's packages as cost-saving alternatives to the packages marketed by the major additive companies. "There are a lot of cars and fleets out there that don't need a oil that meets the newest standard," he explains. "So this is an option for them"

Scheetz emphasizes that the surplus additives his company offers underwent testing and approval procedures for past specifications, but critics are still skeptical.

"The concern I would have is whether or not the additive was stressed," says Ron Stepan, global automotive business manager with Chevron Oronite of Houston, Texas. "Was it overheated or contaminated by water? Or maybe it outlived its shelf-life."

Regarding skepticism surrounding blended packages, Scheetz explains that knowledgeable people can confidently estimate how the packages will perform. "There's a certain degree of uncertainty," he says, "but the major additive companies provide data sheets showing the chemical and physical properties of their products, so in our blending we keep properties within a normal range."

Petroleum Chemicals informs customers that its additives "compare" to similar packages offered by the big additive companies, and they recommend their customers use similar verbiage when comparing their oils with particular standards.

According to major additive companies, the complexity of additive chemistries can create significant problems when packages are combined. "When an operation is based on 'reasonable inferences,' those are two words that translate into 'We don't know,'" said an official with a major additive company.

"We spend $50 million a year to know exactly how those products perform. It does require a lot of testing, and there are a lot of surprises. We've tried to substitute things that seemed like natural dropins and they just don't work. They may look chemically equivalent, but they just don't perform the same."

Scheetz, on the other hand, argues that formulating is not overly complicated and claims his company performs bench tests on the packages it blends, detecting any problems.

Major additive suppliers are also guilty of supplying companies with obsolete and unapproved additive packages, often selling packages approved for older specifications to blenders of unlicensed oils. Unapproved additives are also sold. They may be scaled down versions of approved products or new, untested formulas to be used in unlicensed lubricants.

"If a customer asks us for something for which we don't have an approved formula, we can do regression models based on the data we've accumulated to say, 'If this test was available today, this product would pass it,'" says Jeffrey Cash, general sales manager with Lubrizol's Fluid Technologies for Transportation Division. "We're able to do that because of the information we've acquired through the years and the knowledge it has given us."

"With our company, or with any of the other major additive companies, you get long, outstanding reputations for quality and performance. We fully stand behind our products, and we're not going to make recommendations that are not in some way, shape or form documented and supported."

What do automobile manufacturers think of motor oils blended with "knockoff" additive packages?

"That's not something we would support or encourage," said Mike McMillan of General Motors, who is also chairman of the International Lubricant Standardization and Approval Committee (ILSAC). "The industry puts so much time into developing [engine] tests because we believe they are needed to ensure that the oil that goes into our engines is going to protect them."

AMSOIL has a solid reputation in the industry for sparing no expense when it comes to quality additive packages, purchasing top-of-the-line additives that provide superior protection and performance for extended drain intervals.

Briefly

Toyota Increases Hybrid Production Productivity

Toyota Motor Corp., which plans to offer hybrid options for most of its vehicles in the near future, recently began production on its second generation of Prius hybrid sedans. Production of the hybrids has become much more efficient and cost effective, with the current assembly line producing one car a minute. The first generation of hybrid Prius sedans were produced one every eight to 10 minutes. Although the hybrids are required to pass through 11 additional stops during assembly compared with a conventional vehicle, productivity for the current Prius model has climbed 15 percent. Toyota expects demand for hybrids to significantly increase in the coming year. Sales of the first generation Prius were 28,000 last year, and they expect the new model to sell 76,000 in the coming year, a number which already appears to be quite conservative. Toyota's success at hybrid mass production is encouraging for rivals General Motors and Ford Motor Co., which plan to introduce hybrid models later this year.

Gearbox Tip

In cases where gearbox oil seals are constantly being replaced, Mukesh Sharma of Sharjah Cement advises checking the gearbox breather for plugging. When breathers are clogged, it can cause internal gearbox pressure to build and find its way out through the oil seals, creating the misconception of seal failure.

European Vehicles Require High End Oils

European vehicles are designed to use higher quality European lubricants, often posing problems for American owners.

Many popular North American engine oils may actually be harmful to European engines. European automobile manufacturers design vehicles to use specific high quality lubricants with specific properties and additives. Most motor oils offered in America do not meet the demanding specifications, and the European lubricants are not readily available. As a result, problems such as premature wear and engine sludge develop.

"Europeans build their cars and impose higher requirements on the type of oil than we are used to here in North America," remarks an oil industry source. "They have more o a multi-tier system within their specifications, whereas the API uses the lowest common denominator as a guideline. It is by its own admission, within API 1509, a minimum spec."

While the American Petroleum Institute (API) sets oil standards in America, the Automotive Manufacturers Association (ACEA) sets them in Europe. "ACEA standards reflect a wider complexity of the offering of engines on the market right now," says Herve Blanquart, VP Automotive of Motul North America. "On top of that, manufacturers have introduced their own standards, most of which start with the ACEA standards, and go further in specific tests to solve specific problems and address specific issues."

In the U.S., the API adopts one standard for all engine oils. "For example they are working on ILSAC GF-4, and the problems they are running into is that this oil will be too thin for a lot of older engines," explains Blanquart. "In Europe, they decided from the beginning that they would not adopt a linear standard - rather a standard for each type of application - gas, diesel, turbo, etc."

European vehicle manufacturers keep tight control over which lubricants they allow to be used in their vehicles. Inner-company bureaucracies are in charge of keeping the approved lubricant lists up-to-date with the latest requirements, and a few companies apply some of the regulations to North America. European aftermarket service stations must stock different lubricants for different automobile brands. Sometimes different models put out by the same manufacturer require different lubricants.

Do-it-yourselfers are less prevalent in Europe. Qualified repair shops, franchised or tightly controlled by the vehicle manufacturers in order to dictate the type of oil being used, typically perform most of the oil changes.

The high quality oils used in Europe allow Europeans to enjoy longer drain intervals. However, when European vehicles are exported to the United States, the concept becomes distorted.

"There is in general a longer drain associated with the higher tier oils in the European system," remarks the oil industry source, "so the thought process is - if we don't allow the longer drain in North America, consumers should be able to get by with API spec oils - but it leaves manufacturers open to the type of problems Mercedes-Benz recently experienced."

A recent class-action lawsuit brought forward by owners of certain 1998 through 2001 Mercedes-Benz vehicles claimed they weren't informed that synthetic motor oil was required in order to take advantage of the extended drain intervals afforded through the use of the vehicles' Flexible Service System (FSS). Many using conventional oils experienced premature wear problems, and the settlement will cost the company over $32 million.

"The long drain indicator used by Mercedes is predicated on using Mercedes-Benz approved oil, which is a very top quality synthetic oil," explains the oil company source. "When those vehicles came to the States, somehow dealerships weren't impressing upon the consumer the need to use the right oil. And whether or not the dealers were doing so, some consumers were putting in regular API-spec oil, resulting in problems."

Although synthetic motor oils are generally of higher quality than conventional oils, not all synthetics can meet the stringent European specifications. "A good quality synthetic could solve the problem," says the source, "but in the case of M-B, for example, you're dealing with an extremely high-spec oil. Not every synthetic is going to meet that spec. Some only meet the baseline API specs. Just because it's a synthetic doesn't mean it's a top tier product.

"Shop owners must keep in mind that there are numerous special requirements for European vehicles and that they shouldn't always be knee-jerking to the stuff in the big tank. If you call M-B, Volvo, or VW, for example, they should be telling you that their vehicle needs ACEA spec products."

Although it's easy to assume that the more expensive the vehicle, the better quality the lubricant it needs, that's not always the case. For example, the mid-priced Volkswagen TDI requires a very specific high spec lubricant.

Formulated with top-of-the-line synthetic base stocks and robust additive packages, AMSOIL synthetic motor oils provide superior protection and performance over competing synthetic and conventional motor oils and meet or exceed the most stringent European oil specifications. AMSOIL synthetic motor oils provide superior protection and performance in both foreign and domestic automobiles for extended drain intervals of up to 35,000 miles or one year, whichever comes first.

Briefly

Quick Lubes Increase Profits

According to a survey conducted by the Automotive Oil Change Association, American and Canadian quick lube businesses had a very successful year in 2002, serving more customers and increasing profits. Sales for the average quick lube increased 7.8 percent compared with 2000. According to association executive director Stephen Christie, the increase in sales can be partially attributed to higher prices, as well as people keeping their cars longer. Once a vehicle goes out of warranty, motorists are more likely to visit a quick lube for an oil change, rather than their dealer. Expansion in services has aided the sales growth too. "A lot of centers are adding transmission services," says Christie. "You also see more offering tire rotations. Some (centers) have introduced other things. Owners offer whatever they feel comfortable with, and each one is a little different. But most are looking for more ways to serve their customers."

Site Glass Tube Tip

Lubricant site glass tubes sometimes get clogged at the intake, holding oil in the tube and giving the false impression of an adequate oil level when lubricant levels run low. Bill Morgan, Manager of Process Engineering, City of Vero Beach Water and Sewer, advises using a wire or pipe cleaner brush at each servicing to clean the tube and ensure it is clear from intake to glass. This procedure works well with oil site glasses that clog from contaminants, as well as grease applicators that get dry grease bridges.

Team AMSOIL Racer Terry Rinker Captures National Championship

With his fifth podium finish of th season, Rinker secured his first national Formula One title.

Team AMSOIL powerboat racer Terry Rinker was a man on a mission this race season. With his eyes fixated on his first national championship, Rinker opened the Champ Boat Series season in Tampico, Mexico with a strong third place podium finish, following it up with a second place podium in New Roads, La. The strong finishes put Rinker into first place in the overall standings, but his best racing was yet to come. Rinker dominated in Bay City and St. Louis, winning both races and further distancing himself from his nearest competitors. He finished sixth in Windsor and entered the season finale, the San Diego "Thunderboat Regatta," with a dominant 192 point lead.

In order to secure the championship, Rinker needed only to run a strong qualifying round in San Diego and make the final. He did just that, finishing in first place in the second qualifying round. All that was required to win the championship was to leave the dock in the final. "I'd have pushed his boat off the dock if I'd had to," remarked crew Chief James Chambers.

Of course, Rinker was not intent merely pushing his boat off the dock. He ran a strong and determined race, earning a strong third place podium finish that pushed his margin of victory to 197 points and left little doubt as to who deserved the 2003 Champ Boat national crown. "We couldn't have done it without the support of our sponsors like AMSOIL," Rinker announced to the fans after the race.

Rinker plans to race one more competition i Florida before calling it a year and returning to the shop to begin preparation for the 2004 race season. Although his offseason will be relatively short, Rinker will certainly take time to savor his dominant season and national championship. "We'll have a lot of work ahead of us," said Rinker, "but it's better to go into the next season as number one instead of working from behind."

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Mack to Issue Tougher Diesel Oil Spec

Wanting more stringent requirements for viscosity maintenance, Mack Trucks Inc. plans to replace their EQ-N Premium Plus heavy-duty diesel oil specification with an updated specification. According to senior staff engineer Greg Shank, the new spec will require oils capable of accepting higher levels of soot without thickening or compromising wear protection. More stringent requirements in the area of shear stability are also expected to be incorporated into the new spec. Other engine manufacturers have expressed interest in tougher diesel oil specifications as well. The Engine Manufacturers Association, which includes Caterpillar, International Truck, Cummins and Detroit Diesel, plans to petition the american Petroleum Institute to upgrade its CI-4 specification to incorporate new, tougher viscosity and shear stability tests. AMSOIL synthetic motor oils maintain their protective viscosities and resist shear under the most severe operating conditions.

Greasing Tip

Applying a thin layer of grease on sliding surfaces such as boom slides and crane outriggers can be a frustrating experience. Al Allen, lubrication superintendent with Sundt Construction, recommends using paint rollers. A regular paint roller of the appropriate size allows the lubricator to roll a thin coat of grease on the area, instead of all over himself. Paint roller pans with snap-on covers work well to keep grease clean and free of contaminants.

Transit Bus Companies Turning to Hybrids

Hybrid diesel buses offer significant emissions reduction and improved fuel efficiency.

Hybrid engine technology appears to be the wave of the future in the diesel market, and some transit bus companies have already started the conversion process. Hybrid engines make use of electric components while accelerating, shifting back to diesel at cruising speeds. Several benefits are apparent with these hybrid vehicles, including reduced air pollution and improved fuel economy.

According to Matt Kester of the Allison Transmission Division of General Motors, hybrid buses cost around 30 percent more than conventional diesel-powered buses, but the increased cost is offset by fuel savings of up to 50 and 60 percent, lower maintenance costs and longer brake wear.

Ebus of Downey, Calif., is a manufacturer of hybrid transit buses. "These new alternatively fueled vehicles provide maximum flexibility by providing the best features of both internal combustion and all-electric propulsion systems," says Ebus chairman Andy Eklov. "Ebus hybrids are unique because they use a micro-turbine to generate electricity for the battery. Some hybrids use diesel generators, but they're not as clean as the micro-turbine."

Visalia, Calif. was the first city to purchase Ebus hybrid buses. "We put together a downtown trolley system about three years ago," says Visalia transit manager Monty Cox. "It was a pilot program because we weren't sure about it, so we bought four used trolleys from Wittier (CA). It worked out fine, but they were 30-foot full size trolley buses. We were looking for something a little cleaner, and we were looking for funding to replace them."

Proposing to purchase hybrid electric trolleys, the city of Visalia successfully obtained a Congestion Mitigation Air Quality (CMAQ) grant of $650,000 from the U.S. Department of Transportation. Requesting proposals from hybrid bus manufacturers, the city eventually settled on Ebus 22-foot trolleys.

"That vehicle fits rights into our nice downtown," says Cox. "It runs on propane and is a lot cleaner than a regular diesel engine, but it hasn't been without challenges."

Enduring 100-degree highs over the summer, Cos was worried Visalia's summer heat would damage the buses' batteries. However, Ebus successfully developed a cooling system for the batteries, and Visalia's bus batteries have suffered no heat damage.

Mark Brager, director of sales with Orion Bus Industries of Mississauga, Ontario, encourages transit companies to purchase hybrid buses because they are ideal for stop and start conditions. "The hybrid gives you the best application of both an engine and an electric motor," he says. "It takes the strongest features of both and combines them."

Brager is especially pleased with the emission-reducing capabilities of hybrid buses. "The mission of transit systems is to serve the public, which includes mitigating damage to the environment," he explains. "They run in the city's core where vehicle pollution is at its worst."

In addition to benefits in the areas of emissions and fuel efficiency, Brager says another significant benefit is "regenerative braking." "On a traditional bus the brakes heat up, the bus slows down and energy is lost," he says. "On a hybrid, that energy is recaptured."

Orion recently sold 325 hybrid buses to New York City, a city which has actively encouraged hybrid technology for more than a decade. The first buses will be delivered in October. "I'm confident the technology will be more than acceptable," says Dana Lowell, assistant chief maintenance officer for research and development at New Youk City Transit. "Our primary concern is emissions, and the benefits of hybrids have been proven in testing to reduce all four regulated emissions."

According to Kester, interest in hybrid buses is steadily increasing in cities across the nation, especially those with air pollution concerns. "It's a big issue in Houston, where they have air quality problems," he says. "It's an important technology for them."

AMSOIL Synthetic Diesel Oils offer unmatched protection and performance in both hybrid and conventional diesel engines. With AMSOIL Diesel Oils, emissions are significantly reduced and fuel efficiency is maximized.

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GF-4 Specification Approved

ILSAC/Oil recently approved final draft limits for the GF-4 engine oil specification, clearing the way for the American Petroleum Institute (API) to publish it and begin licensing the new oils for 2005 model vehicles. According to ILSAC/Oil chairman Bob Olree of General Motors, first licensing should begin no later than July 2004, and GF-3 licensing will cease after April 2005. Next on API's agenda will be developing GF-4's companion API "S" Service Category, most likely API SM. AMSOIL motor oils are formulated to provide superior protection and performance and exceed the most stringent worldwide specifications.

Hydraulic System Flushing Tips

According to Peter Hodges, author of the comprehensive reference book Hydraulic Fluids, flushing is often required of both new and recently repaired hydraulic systems if significant contamination has occurred. Systems assembled on site often incorporate components treated with corrosion protectives. A proper flushing prevents them from slowly dissolving into the hydraulic fluid and affecting performance. Flushing should be done with the same viscosity oil used in service or a lower viscosity of similar composition, and critical components such as valves, pumps and motors should be isolated or bypassed to avoid accumulation of contaminants. A minimum charge of flushing oil should do the job, and filters should be checked periodically until particle counts on fluid returning to the filters have decreased to a satisfactory level. Circulation temperature should be around 40 degrees C.

AMSOIL Introduces New Interceptor 2-Cycle Oil

New AMSOIL Interceptor Synthetic 2-Cycle Oil eliminates power valve deposits.

New AMSOIL Interceptor Synthetic 2-Cycle Oil is formulated to provide unsurpassed protection, performance and clean engine operation in recreational two-cycle equipment operating in both hot and cold temperature extremes, including carbureted, electronic fuel injected (EFI) and direct fuel injected (DFI) snowmobiles, personal watercraft, motorcycles, ATV's and jet boats. It is recommended wherever API TC and JASO FC two-cycle oils are specified and replaces TC-W3 oils in the above applications.

AMSOIL Interceptor addresses the exhaust power valve sticking problems experienced with certain snowmobile models. Formulated with wax free premium quality synthetic esters and "Double Treat" additive package, Interceptor provides the ultimate in clean engine operation. Extensive field testing reveals that Interceptor virtually eliminates deposits that cause ring sticking and exhaust valve sticking. In fact, two separate field trials conducted with over 100 snowmobiles produced no stuck exhaust valves after thousands of accumulated miles during an entire season of riding.

AMSOIL Interceptor effectively prevents plug fouling and dramatically reduces wear on cylinders, pistons and bearings, while also reducing the smoke and odor associated with two-cycle engines. Friction and operating temperatures are kept at a minimum, and with a -51 degree F pour point, Interceptor provides exceptional cold temperature performance.

Rocky Mountains Field Testing

Subjected to adverse field testing conditions in the Rocky Mountains, including long trail rides, high RPM powder powder riding and steep hill climbs, AMSOIL Interceptor demonstrated superior lubrication properties and outstanding deposit control.

AMSOIL INC. worked closely with West Yellowstone Arctic Yamaha owner and operator Bill Howell during the development of AMSOIL Interceptor Synthetic 2-Cycle Oil. Operating a fleet of over 100 Arctic Cat 600 snowmobiles equipped with exhaust power valves in Yellowstone National Park, Howell had previously been running a conventional two-cycle oil and been frustrated with valve sticking in his sleds. He has seen valves stick after less than 500 miles of operation. In over 400,000 accumulated miles of testing with AMSOIL Interceptor, Howell experienced no valve sticking or problems of any kind in any of his over 100 snowmobiles. In addition, smoke and odor were dramatically reduced.

Brian Holt, owner and operator of Good Times Adventure Tours in Breckenridge, Colo., also agreed to test new AMSOIL Interceptor 2-Cycle Oil in his snowmobile fleet. Operating a fleet of Ski-Doo 500 Grand Touring snowmobiles equipped with exhaust power valves, Holt had been experiencing similar exhaust valve sticking problems while running a conventional two-cycle oil.

Testing AMSOIL Interceptor over the 2002-2003 season, Holt was greatly impressed. "While pulling groomers, my snowmobiles get really hot and are worked harder than any sled I know of," says Holt. "AMSOIL Interceptor performed exceptionally well in these units with no valve sticking and no motor failures during the 2002-2003 season."

A recent survey of customers cited the following reasons for using synthetic or synthetic blend motor oils:

California Makes a Stand Against Obsolete Motor Oil

The state of California is increasing enforcement of a law requiring warning labels be displayed on obsolete motor oil containers.

Long obsolete API SA and SB engine oils continue to appear in discount, convenience and dollar stores across the nation. Although use of these oils can have devastating effects if used in modern automobiles, most do not display any kind of consumer warning. Instead, misleading words and phrases such as "high quality" and "premium" appear on the labels. Recognizing the inevitable problems the use of obsolete motor oils could cause motorists, the state of California is intensifying the enforcement of a law requiring API SA and SB motor oils to be clearly labeled as obsolete and potentially harmful to modern engines.

Last spring, the state Department of Food and Agriculture's Division of Measurement Standards sent letters to motor oil marketers informing them of their plans to begin strictly enforcing the law, and they have spent the summer quarantining obsolete motor oils found in retail stores without proper warning labels. Despite this initiative, many oil companies think it will do little to stop motorists from buying and using obsolete oils.

"I don't think it's going to have an impact at all," says Coastal Unilube President and Chief Operating Officer R. Kent Farmer. "How many people pick up a container and read the label on it?"

The California Business and Professions Code requires that obsolete motor oil containers of one gallon and smaller display warning labels based on SAE J183, the SAE standard for motor oil performance. The SAE J183 text for API SA oils warns that the oil lacks additives, is not suitable for gasoline engines built after 1930 and can cause unsatisfactory performance and equipment damage in modern engines. The text for API categories SB through SG is similar, but identifies different obsolete dates and does not mention lack of additives.

"The law has been on the books for quite a few years," said David Lazier, chief of the Division of Measurement Standard's petroleum products branch. "We've just taken a more direct stance on it due to the fact that we're seeing a lot of SA oils in the market place, on shelves right along with SL. Unfortunately, the public isn't aware that these oils may not protect their vehicles."

Amalie Oil Co. is among the oil manufacturers that had product quarantined in California. They have a policy of not selling SA and SB oils in California, but Amalie officials claim one of their customers diverted product destined for another location.

"We've told our customers that selling non-detergent oil in California is a no-no," said Amalie Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing Dennis J. Madden. "We try to stay on top of it by asking people where the oil is going. But if a guy buys from us and says he's going to ship to Singapore or some place else, I have no way of knowing what he does with it."

Although they recognize the problems associated with obsolete motor oil, Amalie is not about to stop marketing it. After all, other companies are profiting from its sale, and markets in Latin America and Puerto Rico buy mass quantities of it.

"We would rather not sell non-detergent oil," says Madden. "There's no question that it's not good for today's engines. I tell people, 'It's not going to give your car a heart attack. It's more like cancer. 'But a lot of people are only concerned with price and they'll buy that stuff because it's 30 cents cheaper. And as long as people are going to buy non-detergent oils, and other companies are going to sell them, we feel like we have to compete."

Coastal Unilube has also had its SA motor oil yanked from shelves in California, but unlike Amalie, it has recently switched to new labels consistent with California requirements. President and chief Operating Officer R. Kent Farmer agrees that SA and SB oils are harmful to modern engines, but claims most motorists use them sparingly.

"It's amazing that people still buy them," says Farmer. "But I think people are buying a quart at a time. They're not walking out with a case of it, so I don't think people are doing full changes with SA or SB."

Rather than profiting from selling lubricants detrimental to engine health, AMSOIL manufactures only top-of-the-line synthetic lubricants that keep engines running in top condition, while effectively extending engine life. AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oils exceed the latest API SL service requirements and provide second-to-none protection and performance for extended drain intervals.

Obsolete Motor Oils On the Market

With some companies marketing long obsolete motor oils, customers must be on their toes.

For customers interested in saving a few dollars, API category SA motor oil may be purchased from a number of different oil manufacturers. Of course, API SA motor oil is straight petroleum oil with no additives, and it is unsuitable for use in engines built after 1930. It could cause serious damage if used in modern automobiles. Why, then, is it available?

According to Harry Pizzingrilli, vice president of sales and marketing at Pitt Penn Oil Co., "Frankly, a lot of our customers are in the inner city. They dump in a quart of this oil today and, literally, have to put in another quart tomorrow. The economy's bad, people are trying to get more use out of their cars, they don't repair them and so they use this low-end oil. Why use a much higher priced SL oil in these cases?"

Found in various discount, convenience and dollar stores, obsolete SA, SB and SC motor oils generally cost about half the price of current oils. As API SA, SB and SC specifications become more and more dated, one would think the market for these obsolete oils would be continually shrinking. However, according to the National Petrochemical & Refiners Association's annual Report on U.S. Lubricating Oil Sales, 275 million gallons of obsolete motor oil were sold in 2001, up from 260 million gallons in 2000. The fear is that many people buying these motor oil don't realize they don't meet their vehicles' requirements.

Many labels of obsolete motor oils, rather than specifically warning motorists not to use the product in vehicles built after a certain year, simply state the oil is intended for "older cars." With many labels also containing misleading words and phrases such as "high quality' and "premium." one can imagine how easy it would be for a customer to accidentally pick up this obsolete oil, install it in their vehicle and suffer the consequences.

For example, the label on City Star SAE 10W-30 Motor Oil states, "A quality motor oil, refined and distilled by the latest method. Provides lubrication that protects the motor against friction. CITY STAR provides efficient lubrication in many types of service where low cost and economy are of primary concern."

The American Petroleum Institute does not permit oil companies to use obsolete specifications in the API donut, and as owner and enforcer of the Engine Oil Licensing and Certification System, it is up to API to decide the fate of the handful of companies who are marketing obsolete motor oils. No action has been taken yet, so for now, it is up to consumers to be on their toes.

AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oils are formulated to exceed the latest API SL service requirements and provide second-to-none protection and performance in vehicles old and new.

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Star brite Still Out There

Despite an agreement with API to halt sales, unlicensed Star brite engine oils are still popping up in various Bi-Lo Food Stores in North Carolina. Labeled as meeting long obsolete API SA/SB specifications, Star brite engine oils were recalled by the state of North Carolina in January for failing to meet viscosity standards. Spectrochemical analysis on three viscosity grades of Star brite motor oils showed only trace amounts of common chemicals and metals typically found in modern motor oils. "It appears as if this oil has not been additized at all," commented a laboratory expert after viewing the results. "In these tests you generally find a significant amount of calcium - that's your TBN - at several hundred parts per million. You'd find a significant amount of phosphorus...and zinc and magnesium as well. But there's nothing here."

Senate Calls for Decrease in Oil Consumption

The U.S. Senate recently approved a measure requiring the president to reduce the country's oil consumption by one million barrels per day by 2013. The United States currently consumes nearly 20 million barrels a day, and that number is expected to rise to 24 million by 2013 if no changes are made. Sponsors of the measure say the president can choose from a wide variety of actions to cut oil consumption, including weatherizing homes and increasing use of alternative fuels. According to the measure's principal sponsor, Senator Mary Landrieu of Louisiana, the goal is modest, but it is clear-cut and attainable. By helping vehicles decrease fuel consumption, AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oils effectively curtail oil consumption.