sandy conditions, and extra load pulling.
protection while also delivering improved fuel economy and emission system protection.
SELECTING THE RIGHT MOTOR OIL FOR YOUR VEHICLE VISCOSITY Choosing a good quality motor oil can be confusing. The first step in selecting the right oil is determining the right SAE viscosity grade to use. The SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) has classified oil based on how viscous it is, or the oil’s resistance to flow at different temperatures; the more viscous (thicker), the more resistance to flowing. As the temperature drops the oil thickens. Selecting the proper viscosity grade ensures that the oil will flow to engine parts, reducing friction between metal surfaces, reducing high energy loss and surface wear. Viscosity should be high enough to form a protective film, but low enough not to increase energy loss. SAE classifies oils in two ways, single-grade and multi-grade. • Single-grade Oil: Or straight-weight oil is suitable for use within a specific temperature range; outside this range, its flow characteristics will not allow adequate lubrication. These have cold weather limitations. • Multi-grade Oil: These oils are widely used because they allow for easy starting and pumping at low temperatures. Viscosity grades for motor oil are: 0W – 5W – 10W – 15W – 20W – 25W... The “W” stands for Winter Service. These oils must meet viscosity and performance specifications that permit the oil to flow and pump at low temperatures. The lower the number the better the oil performs in cold operating conditions. Always consult your owner’s manual for specific recommendations for your vehicle. HOW TO PICK THE BEST MOTOR OIL API Certification Mark ‘’Starburst’’ Look for the API Certification Mark “Starburst”. This symbol can only appear if the motor oil meets or exceeds the performance standards set by the American Petroleum Institute. This symbol must appear on the front label of the motor oil container. These oils provide engine
API Service Symbol “Donut’’ The API “Donut” identifies oils that meet current API engine oil standards. It includes the SAE viscosity grade of the oil; API standards met by the oil, and other important performance parameters. The top of the “Donut” displays the motor oil’s API performance standard. The letter “S” followed by another letter (API SN PLUS) refers to oil suitable for gasoline engines, and the letter “C” followed by another letter and number (API CK-4) refers to oil suitable for diesel engines. The second letter is assigned alphabetically and indicates the latest technology. The center of the “Donut” shows the motor oil’s SAE viscosity grade. The bottom of the “Donut” tells whether the motor oil has resource-conserving properties when compared with a reference oil in an engine test. Motor oils labeled as “Resource Conserving” have passed this test.
SAE 15W-40
P
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