European Car Formula Evolves

European Car Formula Evolves

European Car Formula 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil (AEL) has been reformulated to broaden its application potential in European and domestic models, including the Chevrolet* Cruze* Clean Turbo Diesel, Jeep* Grand Cherokee* 3.0L EcoDiesel* V6 and Dodge* Ram* 1500 EcoDiesel. It now meets the following additional specifications:

Chrysler MS-11106

ACEA C3

GM dexos2™

The new formulation will be available in quarts and drums once the current formulation sells out. Forecasts predict the current formulation to last through January. The new formulation is available in gallons Dec. 1.

New Manufacturer Approvals

European Car Formula 5W-40 Synthetic Motor Oil (EFM) now carries the following additional manufacturer approvals:

MB-Approval 229.

Porsche A40

In addition, the European Car Formula Synthetic Motor Oil labels are being revised slightly, removing the focus from SAPS levels and placing it on emissions system protection. The European Car Formula products will be referred to as the following:

European Car Formula 0W-40 Classic Emissions System Protection Synthetic Motor Oil (EFO)

European Car Formula 5W-40 Classic Emissions System Protection Synthetic Motor Oil (EFM)

European Car Formula 5W-30 Improved Emissions System Protection Synthetic Motor Oil (AEL)

European Car Formula 5W-40 Improved Emissions System Protection Synthetic Motor Oil (AFL)

Labels reflecting the changes will begin appearing as inventory of European Car Formula products with current labels is depleted.

New Focus

SAPS levels are a clear way of differentiating between oils within the European Car Formula family; however, the SAPS indicators on labels and advertisements added confusion for consumers who didn’t know why SAPS levels are important. Ultimately, SAPS levels are important for ensuring sensitive emissions systems on European vehicles function as designed, and the labels have been updated accordingly. Although we will continue to provide information about SAPS, its focus has been deemphasized.

Go Inside the Dyno Room with Engine Masters, presented by AMSOIL

Go Inside the Dyno Room with Engine Masters, presented by AMSOIL

An all-new show is coming to Motor Trend’s YouTube channel beginning Nov. 23 – Engine Masters, presented by AMSOIL. Each episode features parts testing and engine-to-engine shootouts on the dyno. In the debut episode, find out what single bolt-on part adds 50 hp to a small-block Chevy already capable of producing 500 hp.

Hosts David Freiburger of Roadkill, Steve Dulcich of Engine Masters Magazine and dyno guru Steve Brule of Westech Performance Group provide a blend of fun and information in this video dyno diary. New episodes will be added about every other Monday over the next several months starting Nov. 23.

The show was inspired by the annual AMSOIL Engine Masters Challenge, presented by HOT ROD. Each October, the top engine builders in the country gather at the University of Northern Ohio to see who can build the most powerful engine. Tests designed to measure torque, power and performance are administered to each engine, but only one team can come out on top to earn the title of Engine Master.

Waiting a full year to get back in the dyno room was too long for us. Engine Masters, presented by AMSOIL, lets you fuel your passion for power and performance every other Monday.

2015-2016 AMSOIL Championship Snocross

2015-2016 AMSOIL Championship Snocross

The 2015/2016 season of AMSOIL Championship Snocross kicks off with the AMSOIL Duluth National on Thanksgiving weekend, November 27-29 at Spirit Mountain in Du­luth, Minn. Watch snocross superstars Tim Tremblay and Ross Martin battle it out in the first round of the eight-round season. The weekend kicks off Friday night with the AMSOIL DOMINATOR, a head-to-head, bracket-style elimination tournament where the winner walks away with $10,000 from AMSOIL. If you can’t make it, you can catch the live stream at www.isocracing.com. Learn more about AMSOIL Championship Snocross and Team AMSOIL at www.amsoilracing.com.

AMSOIL Performance Turns Customer into Dealer

AMSOIL Performance Turns Customer into Dealer

AMSOIL product performance is often the tipping point for customers to become Dealers.

Such is the case with Dealer Julian Dhanani of La Jolla, Calif. “I started using AMSOIL products several years ago when I began modifying the 2006 Honda* Civic Si* I had at the time,” Dhanani said.

Dhanani modified the Honda so he could run it on open track days at the Streets of Willow course in Rosamond, Calif., a 1.6-mile street track. He upgraded the camshafts in the car to use on the track.

After the camshafts were upgraded, the car began consuming more than a quart of oil every week, even though there were no mechanical leaks. “I tried almost every synthetic oil available at an auto parts store and found nothing that could solve the problem,” he said.

Dhanani heard about AMSOIL products through an Internet forum and decided to install AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil. “It immediately remedied the excessive oil consumption,” Dhanani said. “I continued to change the oil every 3,000 miles because I thought the 15,000-mile severe service interval was an outrageous claim.”

He soon realized the oil continued to look like new when he changed it at 3,000 miles, and he pushed the change intervals further. [The way an oil looks at the change interval does not determine whether it still meets the specifications of serviceable oil.] “I eventually used oil analysis to confirm I could indeed run the oil 15,000 miles/one year, even with moderate engine modifications,” Dhanani said.

He continued using the car on the road and on the track and installed “every AMSOIL product I could use during the last six years I owned the car,” he said.

He eventually returned the car to stock. Personnel at the shop where the aftermarket camshafts were removed asked about their usage.

The camshafts had almost 70,000 miles of road and track use at the time. “The (shop people) were in disbelief because the camshafts looked brand new and were easily re-sellable,” he said. “The current owner of the camshafts is enjoying them immensely, even after putting on an additional 15,000 miles and counting, using AMSOIL, of course.”

The shop personnel were so impressed by the camshafts’ condition that they began using AMSOIL products themselves. “Additionally, the first thing I did with my current 2013 Mitsubishi* Evolution* was switch every fluid over to AMSOIL products when I got it home, fresh from the dealership’s lot,” he said. “My experience with AMSOIL products was so profound that I became an independent Dealer and have had the pleasure of sharing its benefits with many family members, friends and customers over the last few years, along with all the ways Dealers can make money for supplemental income.

“Regardless of how much money I make through the business opportunity, I will continue to enjoy AMSOIL products and all of their benefits myself.”

*All trademarked names and images are the property of their respective owners and may be registered marks in some countries. No affiliation or endorsement claim, express or implied, is made by their use. All products advertised here are AMSOIL-engineered for use in the applications shown.

Premium Air Tool Protection

Premium Air Tool Protection

Air (pneumatic) tools are commonly used amongst automotive enthusiasts, mechanics and craftsmen. Powered by compressed air, they provide exceptional precision and higher power-to-weight ratios than their conventional power-tool counterparts, making them popular choices for those working with tools on a regular basis and for extended periods.

Air tools must be lubricated to prevent premature wear, generally requiring a few drops of oil in the intake port before and after each use and as needed.

AMSOIL Synthetic Air Tool Oil

New AMSOIL Synthetic Air Tool Oil effectively lubricates rotary and piston-type air-tool bearings and motors, while managing moisture and conditioning rubber and plastic seals and O-rings. It ensures air tools run smooth, reduces wear and helps tools last for years, even generations.

Helps prevent corrosion and deposits, allowing air tools to run cleanly and reliably.

Reduces wear, extending tool life.

Dispenses easily.

Applications

AMSOIL Synthetic Air Tool Oil provides outstanding protection and performance in common air tools, including grinders, impact wrenches, ratchet wrenches, chisels, drills, sanders, hammers and nailers.

The Best of Both Worlds

The Best of Both Worlds

AMSOIL Diesel Injector Clean + Cold Flow combines the superior deposit-removing properties of AMSOIL Diesel Injector Clean and the excellent anti-gelling properties of AMSOIL Diesel Cold Flow in one convenient package. It is designed for all types of diesel engines, including high-pressure common-rail designs. Unlike all-in-one fuel additives that may sacrifice performance in specific areas in the name of convenience, AMSOIL Diesel Injector Clean + Cold Flow makes no sacrifices; it is purpose-built for diesel owners who demand maximum results.

• Cleans dirty injectors

• Adds lubricity to reduce fuel-pump & injector wear

• Improves fuel economy up to 4.5 percent

• Disperses water to control ice formation & prevent gelling

• Improves diesel cold-flow ability by up to 20ºF (15ºC)

Fuel injectors in high-pressure common-rail diesel engines use smaller, highly engineered components to produce the higher fuel pressures needed for improved combustion. The tighter clearances invite internal diesel injector deposits that interfere with injector needle actuation, reducing performance. External deposits can also form on the injector nozzle (the typical trouble spot for traditional injectors). While many other fuel additives have yet to catch up to the internal diesel injector deposit problem, AMSOIL Diesel Injector Clean targets deposits wherever they form, maximizing power, fuel economy and performance in high-pressure common-rail and traditional diesel engines.

Common Fixes for a Transmission that Jerks or Hesitates

Common Fixes for a Transmission that Jerks or Hesitates

Here are a few common reasons why your transmission may shift erratically, jerk or hesitate.

Low fluid level

Depleted fluid frictional properties

Poor cold-temperature fluidity

 

Start with the easiest fix

There’s an old adage when troubleshooting: start with the least expensive and simplest fix. In this case, check the transmission fluid level first. Low fluid can prevent the transmission from shifting properly. It’s important to find out why the fluid is low and fix any problems. It could be a leaky seal or other mechanical defect. Otherwise, adding new fluid won’t ultimately solve the problem.

Worn fluid equals poor shift quality

Transmission fluid that has aged and lost some of its frictional properties can also lead to poor shift quality. When your vehicle’s computer tells the transmission to shift gears, hydraulic pressure (provided by the fluid) squeezes a series of plates together inside a clutch pack to connect the engine to the transmission output shaft and route power to the wheels. The fluid’s frictional properties play a vital role in ensuring the clutch plates bind together properly and gear shifts occur seamlessly. Over time, the frictional properties of the fluid can degrade, leading to elongated, jerky or inconsistent shifts. In this case, it’s time for a fluid change. How do you know for sure the fluid is worn? The only definite way to find out is to conduct used fluid analysis. However, fluid that smells burnt or appears dirty is likely due for a change. It’s best practice to change the fluid before the frictional properties are depleted and poor shifting is experienced since poor shifts can cause the clutches to wear more rapidly and lead to bigger issues that need mechanical repairs.

Be aware of “adaptive” transmissions

One interesting note affects newer vehicles equipped with adaptive transmissions. These units “learn” your driving habits and the characteristics of the fluid to adjust shifts accordingly. As the fluid loses its frictional properties, the computer compensates and adjusts transmission performance. If you’ve recently changed your fluid, the computer may still operate as if old fluid is installed, causing poor shift quality. In these cases, keep driving and eventually the computer will “relearn” your driving habits and the behavior of the new fluid and adjust accordingly. The problem was significant enough on some 2012-2013 Ford F-150s to cause Ford to issue a technical service bulletin (TSB 13-1-10).

Your transmission fluid’s frictional properties are vital to best performance

Comparison of Frictional Properties - ATF

To demonstrate its outstanding performance, AMSOIL Signature Series Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid was tested in taxi cabs operating in the intense heat of Las Vegas. First, the frictional properties of new fluid were tested. Then, after more than 180,000 miles of work in a fleet of taxis, the fluid was tested again. As shown in the graph, the fluid maintained nearly identical frictional properties to new fluid after 180,000 miles of severe service. That translates into solid, confident shifts day after day and long transmission life.

Cold weather can reduce shift quality

When the temperature drops, transmission fluids with poor cold-flow properties can thicken and cause elongated and hard shifts until the fluid has warmed up enough to flow properly. Switching to a high-quality synthetic transmission fluid will help. Synthetics don’t contain waxes, as conventional fluids do, so they remain fluid at lower temperatures for improved shifts during cold weather.

The best transmission fluid available won’t fix a broken transmission. But using high-quality synthetic transmission fluid can help improve shift quality and maximize transmission life.

Turbochargers Create Conditions Best Suited for Synthetic Motor Oil

Turbochargers Create Conditions Best Suited for Synthetic Motor Oil

The industry trend toward smaller engines that deliver increased power and fuel efficiency has been well documented. The AMSOIL Newsstand contains several articles about the key technologies that enable today’s advanced engines – turbochargers, gasoline direct injection (GDI) and variable valve timing (VVT). These articles have mainly addressed how these technologies affect motor oil.

In short, they’re brutal on oil. It’s one of the reasons more automakers are installing synthetics at the factory.

Fuel dilution can be a problem

To summarize, GDI technology locates the fuel injectors directly in the cylinder (hence the name), as opposed to the manifold. This arrangement allows for greater control over injection, allowing engineers to fine-tune engines for greater efficiency and power. A side-effect of this process, however, is fuel contaminating the oil. As fuel is sprayed into the combustion chamber, it can wash past the rings and down the cylinder walls, into the oil sump. Ford* has seen the issue frequently enough to release a technical service bulletin (14-0040) titled “Fuel Odor From Engine Oil and/or Engine Oil Level Overfull” to address F-150 trucks equipped with the 3.5L Ecoboost* engine. Fuel dilution varies by engine type and driving conditions, with some vehicles showing no issues.

There are two main side-effects of fuel in the oil. First, fuel thins the oil, sometimes reducing the viscosity below the specified grade. If not accounted for in the design of the engine, this can affect wear rates and have an effect on systems that use the oil to function, like VVT.

Second, significant fuel contamination increases the rate of oil degradation. For these reasons, oil analysis labs typically condemn oil samples when the fuel content is greater than 5 percent.

Low-quality oils no match for turbos

Many GDI engines are turbocharged (TGDI). Turbos push more air into the combustion chamber, and tuning for efficiency can improve fuel economy, especially when combined with other technologies, such as direct injection. Operating at up to 150,000 rpm on exhaust gases that can exceed 1,000°F, turbos create extreme conditions that can cause low-quality oils to quickly break down, creating deposits and shortening the life of the oil. By 2020, industry experts predict nearly every new vehicle sold will come equipped with GDI technology, and the vast majority will be turbocharged.

Many motorists – and even more in the future – probably see only the tremendous benefits of improved power and fuel economy from their TGDI vehicles. Most don’t realize the toll modern engines take on motor oil.

Like most vehicle manufacturers, AMSOIL has long recommended different service intervals based on “normal” or “severe” driving conditions. Turbocharged vehicles are automatically included in the severe service category due to the extreme heat they generate. To ensure customers have the information they need to properly maintain their vehicles, a notice will soon be added to the AMSOIL Product Guides at www.amsoil.com that reminds owners of turbocharged vehicles to follow the severe-service recommendation. That means customers using Signature Series Synthetic Motor Oil in TGDI engines can extend drain intervals up to 15,000 miles/700 hours/12 months, whichever comes first, and should only extend oil changes beyond that with the guidance of oil analysis.

AMSOIL synthetic motor oil delivers superior protection

As proven in numerous tests, AMSOIL synthetic motor oils deliver outstanding protection for these challenging engines. For example, the TEOST Test determines an oil’s tendency to form deposits at high temperatures and is a good indicator of turbocharger protection. In the test, Signature Series 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil minimized deposits and easily surpassed API SN requirements. In the extreme heat of the Sequence IIIG Test, Signature Series scored 86 percent better for piston deposits than required by API SN, even after doubling the length of the test.

As modern engines become more advanced and tougher on oil, AMSOIL is committed to formulating synthetic lubricants that help you get the most out of your vehicle.

The Latest Upgrades for ATVs/UTVs

The Latest Upgrades for ATVs/UTVs

AMSOIL synthetic ATV/UTV lubricants provide hard-working and performance ATVs and UTVs upgraded performance and protection.

ATV and UTV owners invest thousands of dollars in their machines and accessories to improve utility and performance. Owners, particularly UTV owners, often purchase expensive upgrades, including roof panels, doors, winches, skid plates and snow plows. These upgrades are done to improve UTV utility and safety and maximize ATV performance, but increased weight and severity of service are side effects directly affecting lubricants.

Severe Service Challenges

Severe service and aggressive riding pose challenges. Elevated heat can break down oil, leading to harmful deposits and placing the engine at risk of extreme wear, while increasing the likelihood that heavily loaded, high-torque gears and bearings will fail. In addition, while accessories increase performance and versatility, the added weight and the propensity of these machines to be used for towing or hauling increase harmful heat and stress on gears and bearings. The negative effects of severe-service riding increase the importance of high-quality lubricants for increased protection.

What Riders Need

AMSOIL synthetic ATV/UTV lubricants provide another performance upgrade that helps owners safely and confidently push their machines to the limit. After spending thousands of dollars on a new UTV or ATV and equipping it with expensive upgrades, it makes sense to upgrade to AMSOIL performance.

AMSOIL 10W-40 Synthetic ATV/UTV Motor Oil

• Delivers reserve protection against heat

• Helps prevent varnish and sludge

• Delivers consistent clutch feel

AMSOIL 5W-50 Synthetic ATV/UTV Motor Oil

• Delivers reserve protection against heat

• Helps prevent varnish and sludge

• Delivers excellent all-weather performance

AMSOIL Synthetic ATV/UTV Transmission & Differential Fluid

• Delivers reserve protection against heat

• Helps prevent varnish and sludge

• Boasts outstanding shear stability and resists extreme pressures

AMSOIL Synthetic ATV/UTV Front Drive Fluid

• Delivers reserve protection against heat

• Helps prevent varnish and sludge

• Boasts outstanding shear stability and resists extreme pressures

Today’s Specialized Sleds Demand Specialized Oil. Is Your Oil Up to the Challenge?

Today’s Specialized Sleds Demand Specialized Oil.

Is Your Oil Up to the Challenge?

It’s a great time to be a snowmobiler. Modern sleds deliver power, performance and efficiency unthought of a few years ago. And with each new model year, sled manufacturers seem to push the limits of performance even further, allowing you to ride faster and push your sled harder, while using less gas and oil and producing fewer emissions.

Although greater performance translates into ear-to-ear grins on the trail, it can be brutal on motor oil.

The Ski-Doo* Rotax* E-TEC* and Arctic Cat* C-TEC2* engines offer perfect examples. The E-TEC incorporates electronic equipment that can adjust the amount of oil the engine uses depending on operating conditions. As a result, the engine produces fewer exhaust emissions – and more severe operating conditions.

Similarly, Arctic Cat’s C-TEC2 engine features dual-stage injection, where fuel is injected directly into the boost port side of the cylinder at low rpm and also into the crankcase area at high rpm. Like the E-TEC, it uses less oil than previous engines. In one Arctic Cat promotional video, riders are told to expect fuel-to-oil ratios in the range of 65:1, depending on riding conditions. The result, according to Arctic Cat, is improved performance, fuel-economy and emissions. 

Getting the most out of your sled requires using an oil proven to stand up to the punishment doled out by modern engines. Two-stroke oils should focus on three areas of performance:

Piston protection

Exhaust power valve cleanliness

Cold-flow properties

The intense heat and friction inside today’s snowmobile engines can overwhelm inferior oils, leading to scuffing and wear. Excellent lubricity — a term that refers to the oil’s ability to reduce friction — is essential for maximum wear protection. After 50 hours of intense dyno testing in a Rotax E-TEC 800R engine — enough time to replicate and entire riding season — AMSOIL INTERCEPTOR® Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil completely prevented piston scuffing.

High heat and increased power can also cause deposit formation on exhaust power valves, which can lead to sticking and reduced performance. Oils with outstanding cleanliness properties are key to maximum power valve performance. In the same 50-hour dyno test, INTERCEPTOR completely prevented exhaust power valve sticking. For full testing results, visit http://www.amsoil.com/proof.

In the area of cold-flow ability, INTERCEPTOR also performs. Today’s snowmobile engines direct less oil to critical components, through narrower passages, for longer distances. Oils that don’t remain fluid in sub-zero cold can fail to reach components at startup, promoting wear. With a pour point of -72°F, INTERCEPTOR remains fluid in extreme cold to ensure oil reaches critical components, keeping your engine protected.

While snowmobile manufacturers may be experts at building sleds, no one can match AMSOIL expertise and experience when it comes to formulating synthetic two-stroke oils. Plus, AMSOIL synthetic snowmobile oils are Warranty Secure™, keeping your factory warranty intact. They’re outstanding choices whether you ride a Polaris*, Ski-Doo, Arctic Cat, Yamaha* or other brand of sled.

What is Cetane?

What is Cetane?

Cetane numbers are used to indicate the combustion speed of diesel fuel. Diesel fuels with higher cetane ratings have shorter ignition delays, providing more complete combustion and allowing engines to operate more effectively.

Although diesel engines operate best on fuel with a cetane value of 50 or higher, most diesel fuel sold in North America has a cetane value of between 40-45. AMSOIL Diesel Cetane Boost effectively raises the cetane number of diesel fuel up to seven points, improving its ignition quality and leading to better engine performance.

Delivers maximum horsepower

Increases fuel economy

Improves startability

Smooths idle

Reduces smoke and emissions

Preferred Customer Keeps Trailblazer on the Road with AMSOIL Products

Preferred Customer Keeps Trailblazer on the Road with AMSOIL Products

Preferred Customer Brett Carlile of Moreno Valley, Calif. said his 2002 Chevy* TrailBlazer* has been dependable as the family’s “truckster” since he purchased it slightly used in 2003.

Shortly after he purchased the TrailBlazer, he started experiencing overheating issues. “I realized I needed the best motor oil available to protect the engine from the damage of ‘excessive heat,’” Carlile said. He researched online and read about AMSOIL synthetic motor oils. “The testimonials and test comparisons to other brands were especially helpful,” he said.

Carlile ordered AMSOIL Signature Series 10W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil (ATM) for the Chevy. “Immediately after receiving my first order I changed the oil and realized a 2 mpg increase in fuel economy,” Carlile said. He became a Preferred Customer when he placed his second order.

He eventually learned the overheating problem was with the variable speed viscous fan clutch. “Two years into ownership I received a letter from Chevrolet extending the engine block warranty,” Carlile said. “This engine has an aluminum block with sleeved cylinders, and the cylinder sleeves were cracking.”

“Here we are many years later and the old girl is running like a top.” - Brett Carlile, Moreno Valley, California

Carlile said he didn’t worry about the engine because he was confidently using AMSOIL synthetic motor oil. “I am a firm believer in the AMSOIL product line and install it in all of my vehicles and small equipment,” Carlile said.

Still Running — This Chevy TrailBlazer is still dependable for the Carlile family with more than 200,000 miles on the engine.

Through the years, the family has made countless trips to Arizona and one trip to Canada. In fact, the old truck is still used regularly as a daily commuter. “Here we are many years later and the old girl is running like a top,” Carlile said. “Annual oil analysis reports she is doing fine.”

He also uses AMSOIL Signature Series 10W-30 in his lawn mower and edger every year. “My lawn mower and edger are now 27 years old and have been on AMSOIL most of that time and are still going strong,” he said.

In addition to AMSOIL Signature Series 10W-30, Carlile also uses AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATL) in his 2003 Silverado* and AMSOIL Synthetic Manual Transmission and Transaxle Gear Lube (MTG), 75W-90 Long Life Synthetic Gear Lube (FGR) and Slip Lock® Differential Additive (ADA) in his 2005 Mazda* RX8*.

10 Reasons to Switch To AMSOIL

Can AMSOIL Synthetic Lubricants be Safely Mixed Together?

Can AMSOIL Synthetic Lubricants be Safely Mixed Together?

Applications require specific lubricant properties to deliver maximum performance and protection. AMSOIL carefully tailors its synthetic lubricants under the strictest quality control standards to provide the required properties for the intended application. Mixing AMSOIL synthetic lubricants is not only unnecessary, it may lead to reduced performance and even equipment failure.

Automatic transmission fluids offer a perfect example. Some transmissions require lubricants that contain specific frictional characteristics to reduce, or eliminate, clutch slippage, while other transmissions may require different frictional requirements. Mixing fluids recommended for different performance specifications may lead to a host of problems, including erratic shifting and transmission failure.

In some applications, mixing lubricants may not lead to equipment failure, but it will reduce performance. For example, if AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil is installed in a vehicle, and the vehicle owner adds AMSOIL OE 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil to top off the engine if Signature Series isn’t available, the vehicle will continue to operate perfectly; Signature Series and OE Synthetic Motor Oil share a similar chemistry, and formulations of the same viscosity can be safely mixed. However, mixing the lubricants will shorten Signature Series' life expectancy and reduce its performance benefits. AMSOIL does not support extended drain intervals where oils have been mixed.

To minimize the risk of performance- and warranty-related issues due to improper mixing, AMSOIL does not recommend mixing AMSOIL synthetic lubricants.

Pair AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oil with AMSOIL Ea® Oil Filtration

Pair AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oil with AMSOIL Ea® Oil Filtration

The function of oil filtration is to remove contaminants introduced into the lubricating oil and prevent them from reaching sensitive engine parts – without restricting normal oil flow to the various points requiring lubrication. Two primary types of oil filtration are available: full-flow and bypass.

Full-Flow Oil Filtration

Full-flow oil filters install directly into the line of oil circulation; the oil passes through the filter as it travels between the oil pump and the engine. A full-flow oil filter must remove and hold contaminants without obstructing oil flow to the engine. Because they use a thin layer of porous filter paper, most oil filters on the market compromise the filtration of finer materials. Such filters have almost no extended cleaning ability because they have a low capacity for storing dirt.

These “surface-type” paper filters quickly become restricted as debris builds up on the surface, at times forcing the filter bypass valve to open and allow unfiltered oil into the engine.

Bypass Oil Filtration

Because oil must be filtered quickly while removing most of the particles, the average full-flow filter traps particles as small as 20 microns. Bypass oil filtration uses a secondary filter with the purpose of eliminating nearly all contaminants in motor oil. Bypass filters have high capacities and eliminate much smaller particles than full-flow filters, including those in the two to 20 micron range, as well as soot and sludge. They reduce engine wear and increase oil volume, but their high efficiencies mean they also have higher restriction and must be used in conjunction with a full-flow filter.

Bypass filters operate by filtering oil on a “partial-flow” basis. They draw approximately 10 percent of the oil pump’s capacity and trap the extremely small, wear-causing contaminants that full-flow filters can’t remove. The continual process cleans the oil, reducing long-term wear and helping extend oil life.

AMSOIL Ea Oil Filters

AMSOIL Ea Oil Filters feature advanced full-synthetic media, making them one of the highest efficiency filters available for the auto/light-truck market.

Provide filtering efficiency of 98.7 percent at 20 microns

Offer greater capacity than competing filter brands

Allow maximum efficiency without restricting flow

Provide extended service life

AMSOIL Ea Bypass Filters

AMSOIL Ea Bypass Filters provide the ultimate in protection against wear and oil degradation in auto/light-truck, heavy-duty and other applications.

Provide filtering efficiency of 98.7 percent at two microns

Offer improved oil filtration for prolonged engine life

Allow increased oil capacity

Provide extended service life

The Hotter it Gets, the Hotter it Gets

The Hotter it Gets, the Hotter it Gets

AMSOIL Severe Gear® Synthetic Gear Lube provides superior protection against thermal runaway.

Modern turbo diesel pickup trucks, V-10 gasoline pickups and sport utility vehicles (SUVs) and high-horsepower V-8 trucks boast more towing and payload capacities than ever before.

The extreme loads, pressures and temperatures experienced by modern vehicles place increased stress on gear lubricants that can lead to a serious condition known as thermal runaway. As temperatures in the differential climb upward, gear lubricants tend to lose viscosity, while extreme loads and pressures can break the lubricant film, causing increased metal-to-metal contact and heat. The increased friction and heat, in turn, cause the lubricant to lose further viscosity, which further increases friction and heat. As friction and heat increase, lubricant viscosity decreases. As viscosity decreases, friction and heat continue to spiral upward. The hotter it gets, the hotter it gets. It is a vicious cycle that eventually leads to greatly increased wear and irreparable equipment damage.

AMSOIL Severe Gear® Synthetic Extreme Pressure (EP) Gear Lube features an exclusive blend of high viscosity, shear stable synthetic base oils and an extra treatment of high-performance additives that provide a highly protective iron sulfide barrier coating on gear surfaces. Severe Gear Synthetic Gear Lube effectively protects equipment from thermal runaway through superior viscosity protection.

Viscosity Protection

Viscosity is the most important property of a lubricant in its defense against friction and wear. Viscosity correlates to film strength, and it is film strength that keeps moving parts from contacting each other and creating friction, heat and wear. The higher the viscosity of a lubricant, the greater protection it provides. AMSOIL Severe Gear Synthetic Gear Lube is available in 75W-90, 75W-110, 75W-140, SAE 190 and SAE 250 viscosities, each providing superior protection through superior film strength.

Viscosity Index

As temperatures rise, gear lubricant viscosity and load-carrying abilities decrease. A lubricant’s viscosity index (VI) indicates its ability to maintain its protective viscosity in high-temperature service. The higher a lubricant’s VI, the less its viscosity changes in temperature extremes.

AMSOIL Severe Gear Synthetic Gear Lube provides a high viscosity index, allowing it to protect against thermal runaway by maintaining its superior viscosity protection in high-temperature service.

Shear Stability

Many gear lubes are formulated with viscosity index (VI) improvers in order to ensure multi-grade viscosity protection in both hot and cold temperatures. VI improver additives keep lubricants from becoming too thick to flow in cold temperatures and too thin to protect in high temperatures. However, shearing forces within equipment can cause these additives to break down and lose viscosity.

AMSOIL Severe Gear effectively protects against thermal runaway by maintaining its protection qualities, even in severe, high-shear operating conditions.

The superior viscosity protection, viscosity index and shear-stability properties of AMSOIL Severe Gear Synthetic Gear Lube effectively protect equipment from the devastating effects of thermal runaway. Severe Gear Synthetic Gear Lube is ideal for severe-duty applications, including towing, hauling, steep hill driving, commercial use, plowing, racing, off-road use, rapid acceleration, frequent stop-and-go operation and high ambient temperatures.

How Does Extreme Cold Affect Lubricants?

How Does Extreme Cold Affect Lubricants?

Extreme cold can cause conventional motor oil, transmission fluid and gear lube to thicken, starving vital moving parts of necessary lubrication. In many cases, thick motor oil will prevent vehicles from starting. Cold, thick transmission fluid results in delayed or sluggish shifts and inadequate protection for bearings, valves and other critical parts. Thick gear lube, meanwhile, requires more energy to turn the gears, reducing fuel efficiency. Because gears and bearings in the axle housing are splash-lubricated, conventional gear lubes that are too thick at cold temperatures can starve internal components of lubrication, which can cause excessive wear and premature failure.

Conventional petroleum lubricants thicken because they often contain paraffins (wax). While modern refining techniques remove most of the wax from petroleum oil, some wax-like molecules remain. These wax-like molecules are soluble at ambient temperatures above freezing, but crystallize into a honeycomb-like structure at lower temperatures and cause circulation problems. At startup, this can leave working parts unprotected while the lubricant warms to a temperature that allows it to flow.

AMSOIL synthetic lubricants do not contain paraffins, so they remain fluid in sub-zero temperatures. Watch the video to see what happens when AMSOIL Signature Series Synthetic Motor Oil and a conventional oil are cooled to -40º. While the conventional oil fails to flow from the beaker, Signature Series remains fluid and delivers 36% easier and faster cold starts*. This means it can reach vital components faster, providing more immediate engine protection and reduced wear.

How Long Does Synthetic Motor Oil Last?

How Long Does Synthetic Motor Oil Last?

Generally speaking, synthetic motor oil will nearly always last longer than conventional oil, saving you time and money. But your specific synthetic oil change interval will depend on several factors, including operating conditions, motor oil quality and personal preference.

Why Does Oil Lose its Effectiveness?

Extreme heat hastens chemical breakdown (oxidation), altering the oil’s chemistry and preventing it from lubricating, cooling and protecting as designed. Sludge can form, which clogs narrow oil passages and prevents oil from reaching vital components, causing wear. Oxidation can also lead to increased oil viscosity, which negatively affects energy efficiency. Ultimately, the oil loses its effectiveness and must be changed.

Contaminant build-up also affects oil life. Motor oil is formulated with detergent and dispersant additives responsible for holding dirt, soot (in diesel engines) and other contaminants in suspension and preventing them from depositing on engine surfaces or forming sludge. These additives are sacrificial in nature, meaning once they’re depleted, the oil’s effectiveness suffers and it must be changed.

Better Raw Materials Equal Better Oil

Like any other product, quality plays a big role, and in the case of motor oil helps determine service life and effectiveness. Synthetic motor oil is formulated using higher-quality raw materials than conventional oil, allowing it to perform better and last longer.

AMSOIL Signature Series Synthetic Motor Oil, for example, is guaranteed for 25,000 miles/700 hours of operation/one year, whichever comes first, in normal service (15,000 miles in severe service). Its synthetic base oils don’t contain the impurities inherent to conventional oils, allowing it to more effectively resist chemical breakdown and extreme heat. Signature Series is also formulated with high-quality additives that effectively neutralize contaminants for long service life.

The graph helps demonstrate this fact. A key indicator of potential service life is the oil’s Total Base Number (TBN), which indicates the oil’s ability to neutralize contaminants, such as combustion by-products and acidic materials. Higher TBN oils are able to neutralize a greater amount of acidic materials, which results in improved protection against corrosive reactions and longer life.

Total Base Number AMSOIL Signatures Series Test Results

Compared to nine leading synthetic oils, Signature Series ranked first in the TBN test. It delivers a combination of long service life and outstanding protection other oils simply can’t touch, helping you get the most out of your vehicle and save time and money. In fact, no other oil available offers a drain interval of up to 25,000 miles.

AMSOIL also formulates XL Synthetic Motor Oil (10,000 miles/six months, or longer when recommended in owner’s manuals or indicated by electronic oil life monitoring systems) and OE Synthetic Motor Oil (3,000+ miles/3+ months), providing three tiers of AMSOIL performance.

How to Reduce Engine Wear

How to Reduce Engine Wear

Engine wear is inevitable. But you can take steps to reduce wear and maximize the life and performance of your engine.

Wear occurs in four primary ways.

Abrasive wear starts with particles that originate as contaminants from outside the engine, such as dirt or soot. These contaminants are ingested through the air intake and circulate throughout the engine, grinding and scouring metal components. Most abrasive wear can be eliminated with high-quality air and oil filters.

Corrosive wear, sometimes referred to as chemical wear, results from chemical attack on a metal surface, such as the cylinder wall. Chemical corrosion is especially problematic in vehicles used sporadically or seasonally, such as motorcycles.

Adhesive wear is a result of metal-to-metal contact under high loads, speed or temperatures. Although the metal surfaces in your engine appear smooth to the naked eye, they contain microscopic high spots, called asperities. As asperities slide against each other, they can bond, causing the two surfaces to adhere. As they pull apart, surface imperfections result that accumulate over time and can lead to failures, such as seizure.

Fatigue wear occurs when regular stress on a lubricated surface causes fractures over time. Fatigue wear occurs predominantly in rolling-element bearings.

Four-Ball Wear Test ChartUsing high-quality air and oil filters is critical to reducing engine wear. Air filters help prevent abrasive contaminants from entering your engine, while a good oil filter will trap particles before they can circulate through the engine and cause wear. AMSOIL offers Wix and MANN-FILTER air filters, which feature high-quality media that provide superior filtration. AMSOIL Ea Oil Filters are made from synthetic media, which traps and holds a higher percentage of the small, wear-causing particles conventional filters miss for maximum engine protection.

The motor oil you choose is just as important. Modern engines run hotter and under higher pressures, increasing the likelihood of wear. Some oils may not be up to the challenge of providing the required level of protection. AMSOIL synthetic motor oils are formulated with resilient base stocks and performance additives that withstand heat and stress better than conventional oils. To demonstrate, AMSOIL Signature Series  5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil was compared to nine leading synthetic oils in the Four Ball Wear Test. It delivered excellent wear protection and revealed itself to be the top-performing oil in the test, helping you get the most out of your vehicles.

 

Spend Less on Fuel and Motor Oil

Spend Less on Fuel and Motor Oil

Compared to conventional oils, AMSOIL synthetic motor oils help improve fuel economy while reducing oil consumption, both of which save you money.

The difference in performance starts at the molecular level. The refining process used to produce conventional base oils separates crude-oil molecules by weight, leaving molecules of different sizes and shapes. Conventional oils’ inconsistent molecular structure requires more energy to circulate throughout your engine, reducing fuel economy. Unstable molecules in conventional base oils can also evaporate more readily in the presence of extreme heat, causing your oil level to drop. If enough motor oil is consumed, eventually there may not be enough to reach all the complex parts of your engine, which can potentially cause damage.

The synthetic base oils used to formulate AMSOIL synthetic lubricants, on the other hand, are manufactured using a process that produces base oils of a uniform molecular structure. The smooth, pure molecules in AMSOIL synthetic lubricants slip easily over one another, increasing lubricity compared to conventional oils and maximizing fuel economy. They are also inherently more stable in the presence of heat, resulting in less oil consumption.

AMSOIL INC. has conducted industry-standard tests to demonstrate. For example, AMSOIL synthetic diesel oil, transmission fluid and gear oil increased fuel economy 6.54 percent in short- to medium-haul diesel applications in one test, while boosting fuel economy in diesel trucks used in stop-and-go city driving conditions 3.15 percent in a second test. The same synthetic technology extends to the entire line of AMSOIL synthetic lubricants, delivering maximum fuel economy in all your vehicles and equipment.

Likewise, a conventional oil showed 60 percent more oil consumption than AMSOIL 5W-30 Signature Series Synthetic Motor Oil in testing, requiring more frequent top-offs. Conversely, Signature Series showed 38 percent less consumption than the conventional oil.*

It all means you save money at the pump and have to top-off your oil less often.

*Supported by the NOACK Volatility Test (ASTM D5800)

AMSOIL Won’t Let Two-Million Mile Trucker Retire

AMSOIL Won’t Let Two-Million Mile Trucker Retire

In October 2012, AMSOIL told the story of Jerry Pruett’s one-million-mile-plus Kenworth. The Woodhull, Ill., native installed AMSOIL synthetic lubricants when he bought the truck new in 1999. After reaching 1.6 million miles on the original transmission and differentials and 1.1 million miles on the factory-rebuilt engine in 2012, Pruett has since eclipsed 2 million miles and shows no signs of slowing down.

The truck, which Pruett uses to haul freight predominantly around the Midwest, has required little maintenance since 2012. In November of that year, Pruett did finally need to replace the fuel injectors. “The spray pattern on the pistons was still good,” he said. “The springs must have weakened over time. Other than that, there was nothing wrong with them.” All six injectors lasted 1.1 million miles. Injectors typically require replacement prior to 500,000 miles, says Pruett. Pruett attributes their longevity to continuous use of AMSOIL Diesel Injector Clean.

Since he was replacing the head gasket anyway, Pruett elected to replace the entire cylinder head to expedite replacement of the injector cups. Other than the head and a new water pump, the engine has required no work in the intervening years. “It keeps humming along,” Pruett said. The turbocharger is still original. Pruett runs AMSOIL 15W-40 Synthetic Heavy Duty Diesel and Marine Oil. He also uses an AMSOIL DUAL-GARD® Oil Filtration System  and changes oil approximately every 100,000 miles, which saves him significant money.

The differentials and transmission are still original after 2 million miles. Pruett uses AMSOIL Severe Gear® SAE 190 Synthetic Gear Lube in the differentials, although AMSOIL primarily recommends 75W-90 Long Life Synthetic Gear Lube in over-the-road applications. “A little bit thicker oil couldn’t hurt with the high miles,” he said. He uses AMSOIL DOMINATOR® SAE 60 Synthetic Racing Oil in the transmission, although AMSOIL primarily recommends SAE 50 Long-Life Synthetic Transmission Oil. “It’s probably been in there 600,000 miles,” he said.

Pruett has learned firsthand how good AMSOIL synthetic diesel oil protects in severe conditions. He was changing his by-pass filter last winter, and it was cold and he was in a hurry. He accidently left the O-ring behind on the filter mount, which prevented the new filter from seating properly. “About four miles down the road, the oil-pressure light came on,” he said. “Sure enough, I found an oily mess by the by-pass filter.” Fortunately, Pruett always carries four gallons of oil with him. The truck required the entire four gallons to register oil on the dipstick. His engine has suffered no ill effects, however. “With any other oil, I’d probably be overhauling the truck,” Pruett said.

Pruett uses his truck and his AMSOIL experience as a rolling advertisement for his AMSOIL Dealership. The people with whom he shares his story still have a tough time believing it. “They shake their heads in disbelief,” Pruett said. “They think, ‘No way can you have that many miles on a truck.’ And I only change oil once a year.”

Now 64 years old, Pruett doubts he’ll be working long enough to see 3 million miles. He hopes to spend more time pursuing his AMSOIL Dealership – and he has a great testimonial for everyone he meets along the way. “I’m not only an AMSOIL Dealer, I’m an AMSOIL user and abuser,” Pruett said. “I won’t use anything else.”

Protect Your Vehicle–and the Environment

Protect Your Vehicle–and the Environment

AMSOIL synthetic lubricants not only deliver exceptional protection and performance for your vehicles, they provide remarkable environmental benefits compared to conventional oils.

Less than 10% of the waste AMSOIL generates ends up in a landfill

Extended drain intervals: AMSOIL synthetic motor oils are formulated to resist chemical break down, guard against oil consumption and neutralize contaminants better than conventional oils, resulting in longer service life. AMSOIL Signature Series Synthetic Motor Oil, for example, is guaranteed for 25,000 miles/700 hours of operation/one year, whichever comes first, in normal service. By safely extending oil-change intervals, Signature Series dramatically reduces waste oil. If every passenger car/light truck in America practiced extended drain intervals using Signature Series, up to 35.7 billion quarts of oil would be eliminated from the supply stream.

Reduced emissions: The air we breathe also benefits from AMSOIL synthetic lubricants. Conventional motor oils are more volatile than synthetics, meaning they boil off, or evaporate, more readily when exposed to extreme heat. When oil evaporates, it produces emissions that exit the tailpipe and enter the atmosphere, contributing to air pollution. AMSOIL synthetic motor oils offer better resistance to volatility, helping cut emissions and air pollution.

Maximum fuel economy: Unlike their conventional counterparts, AMSOIL synthetic motor oils are engineered with pure molecular structures that allow their molecules to slip more easily over one another, resulting in less restriction to moving engine parts. Less restriction reduces the amount of energy lost to friction, increasing fuel economy and benefiting the environment.

 

AMSOIL Center produces only one dumpster load of waste every six weeks

Going a Step Further

The commitment of AMSOIL to the environment extends beyond its products to its environmental management system, which is registered to the ISO 14001:2004 standard. AMSOIL closely monitors its environmental impact and has taken numerous steps toward improvement every year.

For example, AMSOIL obtains much of its packaging materials from responsible sources. Plastic containers are made of post-consumer resins, while cardboard boxes derive from the Sustainable Forestry Initiative, whose benefits dramatically reduce waste (see chart). AMSOIL partners with SmartWay® carriers to ship product as efficiently as possible, producing emissions-reduction results equivalent to taking 166 cars off the roads annually.

AMSOIL recycled resources facts

AMSOIL also boasts a rigorous recycling program throughout its corporate facilities. Less than 10 percent of the waste AMSOIL generates ends up in a landfill. In fact, the entire 400,000 square foot AMSOIL Center in Superior, Wis., produces only one dumpster load of waste every six weeks.

AMSOIL has always recognized that doing what’s right for the environment not only makes ecological sense, it also improves business. It’s one of the company’s founding principles and will remain so well into the future.

Another Premium AMSOIL Option for European Vehicles

Another Premium AMSOIL Option for European Vehicles

Additional full-SAPS option fills niche demand for 0W-40 in European applications.

AMSOIL has expanded its European Car Formula line to include a full-SAPS 0W-40 viscosity. Featuring the same premium synthetic formulation and recommended for the same specifications as European Car Formula 5W-40 Full-SAPS Synthetic Motor Oil (EFM), new European Car Formula 0W-40 Full-SAPS Synthetic Motor Oil (EFO) provides European vehicle customers with a different viscosity option.

European vehicle owner’s manuals typically require the motor oil meets a certain specification, but many list several viscosity options. Some manufacturers include temperature graphs to help customers choose a viscosity based on climate, but many customers prefer using lower viscosity oils in all environments. New AMSOIL European Car Formula 0W-40 Synthetic Motor Oil provides customers that lower viscosity option, and it is ideal for customers looking for a premium AMSOIL alternative to competing 0W-40 motor oils that carry European specifications.

Delivers long-term protection and performance for the extended drain intervals recommended by European vehicle manufacturers.

Provides the additional cold-weather advantages of a 0W synthetic motor oil.

Helps keep engines clean and operating at top performance.

Engineered for maximum fuel economy.

 

Applications

AMSOIL European Car Formula 0W-40 Full-SAPS Synthetic Motor Oil (EFO) is recommended for use in European gasoline or diesel vehicles requiring any of the following performance specifications*:

ACEA A3/B3, A3/B4

API SN/SM...

BMW LL-01

Mercedes-Benz 229.1/229.3/229.5

Porsche A40

Renault 0710, 0700

VW 502.00, 505.00

 

SAPS Levels

SAPS stands for sulfated ash, phosphorus and sulfur, which comprise a significant part of a motor oil’s additive content. Because the vehicle emissions system and after treatment devices of some European vehicles are sensitive to the SAPS content of oil, it is important to use an oil that meets the proper specification to ensure optimum engine protection and performance.

The vast majority of European vehicles in North America call for a full-SAPS European oil. AMSOIL now offers premium European Car Formula Full-SAPS Synthetic Motor Oil in two viscosity options, as well as premium European Car Formula 5W-30 Low-SAPS and 5W-40 Mid-SAPS Oils.

Today’s Complex Transmissions Require Premium Fluids

Today’s Complex Transmissions Require Premium Fluids

The complexity of today’s automatic transmissions can baffle even seasoned technicians. Modern transmissions feature more gears, clutch packs and narrow oil passageways that require a steady supply of high-quality fluid. Without it, performance suffers and failure can ensue, leading to thousands of dollars in repairs.

To make matters worse, towing and hauling capacities continue to increase despite transmissions often using less fluid than their predecessors. Maximizing transmission performance and longevity requires using premium synthetic fluids.

“The fluid doesn’t just lubricate, it acts as a hydraulic fluid to enable shifting,” said Matt Erickson, AMSOIL Product Manager, Passenger Car. “Fluids that oxidize can result in damaging sludge that clogs fluid passages and results in poor performance. Transmission fluid is also exposed to high levels of shearing as it is forced between gear teeth. This can quickly break down an inferior fluid, causing viscosity loss and reduced wear protection.”

To demonstrate its robust nature in extreme environments, AMSOIL Signature Series Synthetic ATF was installed in a Las Vegas taxi cab that was operated for more than 180,000 miles on a single fluid change. Signature Series ATF delivered outstanding resistance to sludge and wear despite the intense desert heat and severity of operation. It helps motorists safely harness their vehicle’s full potential and delivers reserve protection against the devastating effects of heat.

AMSOIL formulates a full line of synthetic automatic transmission fluids that meet the stringent demands of today’s transmissions, helping you get the most out of your vehicle.

AMSOIL Signature Series Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid

• Specifically formulated for severe-service towing and heavy hauling

• Delivers reserve protection against extreme heat

AMSOIL OE Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid

• Offers excellent wear protection and extreme-temperature performance for autos/light trucks

• Perfect for daily drivers who don’t require the reserve protection of Signature Series ATF

AMSOIL Synthetic CVT Fluid

• Provides excellent wear protection in continuously variable transmissions

• Helps prevent belt and chain slipping

Use Motorcycle Oil in Your Bike for the Best Protection

Use Motorcycle Oil in Your Bike for the Best Protection

Motorcycle engines and automotive engines function differently, and the lubricants that service them have different requirements. Six crucial differences between motorcycle and automotive engines are outlined below to illustrate why oil engineered for motorcycles is the best choice for your bike.

Operational Speed: Motorcycles tend to operate at engine speeds significantly higher than automobiles. This places additional stress on engine components, increasing the need for wear protection, and subjects lubricating oils to higher loading and shear forces. Elevated operating rpm also promote foaming, which can reduce an oil’s load-carrying ability.

Compression Ratios: Motorcycles tend to operate with higher engine compression ratios than automobiles, which places additional stress on engine components and increases engine operating temperatures, placing greater demands on motorcycle oil to reduce wear. Higher operating temperatures also promote thermal degradation of the oil, reducing its life expectancy and accelerating the formation of engine deposits.

Horsepower/Displacement Density: Motorcycle engines typically produce more horsepower per cubic inch than automobile engines, which exposes the oil to higher temperatures and stress.

Variable Engine Cooling: In general, automotive applications use a sophisticated water-cooling system to control engine operating temperature. Similar systems can be found in motorcycle applications, but most are air-cooled or use a combination air/oil design. Operating temperatures in air-cooled bikes can skyrocket in stop-and-go traffic, promoting oxidation and causing oil to thin, reducing their load-carrying ability.

Multiple Lubrication Functionality: Many motorcycles have a common sump supplying oil to both the engine and transmission. In such cases, the oil is required to meet the needs of both the engine and the transmission gears. Many motorcycles also incorporate a wet clutch within the transmission that uses the same oil.

Inactivity: Whereas automobiles are used on a daily basis, motorcycle use is usually periodic and, in many cases, seasonal. These extended periods of inactivity place additional stress on motorcycle oils. In these circumstances, rust and acid corrosion protection are of critical concern.

No matter the conditions or the bike, AMSOIL synthetic motorcycle oils deliver the premium protection and performance your bike deserves. They are designed to control oxidation and maintain viscosity at higher temperatures, promote consistent clutch feel and lengthen clutch life, reduce engine stress and control wear and deposits in high-compression, high-temperatures motorcycle applications. V-twin or metric, AMSOIL has you covered.

Increase Octane to Maximize Motorcycle Performance

Increase Octane to Maximize Motorcycle Performance 

Though many Harley-Davidson* owners don’t realize it, their bikes are equipped with electronics that detect engine knock. When the computer adjusts ignition timing to eliminate knock, performance suffers. AMSOIL Motorcycle Octane Boost offers an economical solution.

 

What is Engine Knock?

Understanding engine knock, also known as detonation or pre-ignition, requires an understanding of octane. Octane is a standard measure of gasoline performance. The three most common octane ratings include the following: 

•Anti-Knock Index (AKI)

•Research Octane Number (RON)

•Motor Octane Number (MON) 

AKI is the rating most motorists are familiar with. It’s typically displayed on gas pumps as the average of the fuel’s RON and MON. Since RON, however, is the most common industry rating, it’s the rating AMSOIL uses when conducting performance tests and product validation. Gasoline’s RON generally is a few numbers higher than the AKI posted on the gas pump (e.g. 87 octane fuel, or regular pump gas, has a RON of about 91-92).

 

The higher the octane, the more compression the fuel can withstand before igniting. Low-octane gas is susceptible to uncontrolled and early ignition in the combustion chamber. It causes a knocking or pinging sound, robs the engine of power and, left unchecked, can cause catastrophic piston damage.

 

Engine Detuning Reduces Performance

Modern Harleys are equipped with a knock sensor that adjusts timing to compensate for low-octane gasoline and eliminate engine knock. Unfortunately, when timing is adjusted decreased performance results. Rough idling and lack of throttle response are the most common side effects of the engine saving itself from low-octane gasoline. Many people don’t even know this is occurring. Engine knock may be eliminated by raising the fuel’s octane number. 

 

By increasing octane up to three numbers, which eliminates knock or ping and maximizes power and efficiency, AMSOIL Motorcycle Octane Boost offers a low-cost, effective solution to engine detuning and helps maximize bike power and performance.

 

Controls Harmful Deposits

In addition to increasing octane number, Motorcycle Octane Boost maintains engine and fuel-system cleanliness. Its active detergents help prevent deposits for improved efficiency. [For initial clean-up, AMSOIL recommends AMSOIL Quickshot®, which contains a greater concentration of cleaning agents.]

How Extreme Heat Affects Your Engine

How Extreme Heat Affects Your Engine

The average operating temperature of a passenger car/light truck engine is up to 235ºF, and higher under heavy loads. Motorists are becoming more familiar with the technologies responsible for this increased heat, specifically turbochargers and direct fuel injection. Automakers are designing engines using these performance-enhancing technologies to keep pace with increasingly strict fuel economy and emissions standards. Extreme heat, however, can lead to a host of problems, all of which reduce engine performance and life.

Deposits & Sludge

Heat can quickly break down motor oil, creating deposits on the intake valves, which impede airflow into the engine and contribute to poor sealing of the combustion chamber. This can lead to rough idle, misfire and reduced power and fuel economy.

Extreme heat depletes the additives sooner, altering the oil’s chemistry and preventing it from lubricating, cooling and protecting as designed. Sludge can form, which clogs narrow oil passages and prevents oil from reaching vital components, causing wear. Preventing sludge is particularly important in engines that use variable valve timing (VVT). Intricate parts sensitive to sludge can fail to operate properly, resulting in reduced performance.

AMSOIL Signature Series Oil Piston Comparison

Testing done by an independent, third-party lab demonstrates AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil’s superior extreme-heat resistance compared to a leading conventional oil. Signature Series’ superior heat resistance resulted in 81 percent fewer deposits (5 times cleaner) than the conventional oil.

Oil Consumption

When oil volatilizes, the lighter molecules evaporate, leaving behind the heavier components. This leads to viscosity increase, which makes the oil more difficult to circulate and reduces fuel efficiency. You may have experienced this when your car “uses” oil and requires frequent top-offs. Volatilization also creates emissions that contribute to air pollution.

If enough motor oil is consumed, eventually there may not be enough to reach all the complex parts of the engine, which can potentially cause damage.

Signature Series Synthetic Motor Oil demonstrated 38 percent less consumption than the conventional oil, reducing frequent top-offs.

The Double-Length Sequence IIIG Engine Test Study offers additional proof of performance. After 200 hours, Signature Series scored 86 percent better for piston deposits compared to industry standards for 100 hours, easily passing the test.

Signature Series’ high-performance additives and quality base oils offer improved resistance to heat, maximizing the performance and life of your engine and keeping it clean.

AMSOIL Motorcycle Products: Something for Everyone

AMSOIL Motorcycle Products: Something for Everyone

With the introduction of several new and repackaged motorcycle products this year, AMSOIL offers something for every type of biker, from motocross racers and off-road riders to V-Twin and metric enthusiasts. AMSOIL motorcycle products deliver the power, performance and protection that every biker wants, no matter the motivation for getting on the bike. 

Dirt Bike

To satisfy the demand for dirt-bike-specific oil, AMSOIL developed Synthetic Dirt Bike Oil in three viscosities, including 10W-40 (DB40), 10W-50 (DB50) and 10W-60 (DB60). 

AMSOIL Synthetic Dirt Bike Oil is designed to deliver consistent clutch feel and improve the performance of both bike and rider. Superior clutch consistency lets off-road (trail) riders expertly navigate trail obstacles without sacrificing momentum, helping them stay at the front of the pack. It also allows motocross racers the control needed to accurately time the gate drop to grab the holeshot. 

V-Twin

AMSOIL expanded its line of V-Twin lubricants in March to include new AMSOIL 20W-40 Synthetic V-Twin Motorcycle Oil (MVI), AMSOIL Synthetic V-Twin Transmission Fluid (MVT) and AMSOIL Synthetic V-Twin Primary Fluid (MVP). AMSOIL 20W-50 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil (MCV) and AMSOIL SAE 60 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil (MCS) also fall into the V-Twin Family. 

20W-40 Synthetic V-Twin Motorcycle Oil

AMSOIL 20W-40 Synthetic V-Twin Motorcycle Oil was developed to cater to the increasing popularity of Victory and model-year 2013 and newer Indian motorcycles*, providing riders with the security of knowing their bike engines are protected against extreme heat, internal wear and damaging sludge and deposits.

Synthetic V-Twin Transmission Fluid / Synthetic V-Twin Primary Fluid

AMSOIL Synthetic V-Twin Transmission Fluid and AMSOIL Synthetic V-Twin Primary Fluid are purpose-built for bikers who prefer a dedicated transmission or primary lubricant over a multi-use product, offering customers more options. Together, their robust formulations protect against damage from shock-loading, premature wear, clutch slippage and thermal breakdown and deliver the confidence of smooth starts, quiet operation and more effective riding.

20W-50 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil

AMSOIL 20W-50 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil provides superior protection for newer V-Twins, including the ever-popular Harley-Davidson*. In addition to being a cost-effective, high-performance alternative for original equipment manufacturer (OEM)-branded lubricants, AMSOIL Synthetic Motorcycle Oil provides superior primary chaincase, transmission and engine protection in one convenient package.

SAE 60 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil

AMSOIL SAE 60 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil is a premium oil for early model air-cooled V-Twin engines specifying a 60-weight motor oil. It is specially formulated to excel in wet-clutch lubrication, extreme-pressure protection of gears and preventing rust common to short drives and storage.

Metric

To round out the entire motorcycle oil line, AMSOIL 10W-30 (MCT) and 10W-40 Synthetic Metric Motorcycle Oil (MCF) were repackaged and reintroduced with a more specific focus on metric motorcycle applications. 

AMSOIL Synthetic Metric Motorcycle Oil is formulated to provide smooth shifts, excellent wear protection, extreme heat resistance and trouble-free operation in metric cruisers, sport bikes and touring bikes, including Kawasaki, Yamaha, Suzuki and Honda.* 

Get the Most out of Your Manual Transmission

Get the Most out of Your Manual Transmission

Few things connect driver and vehicle like a smooth-shifting manual transmission. Although U.S. automakers have steadily moved away from manuals, many enthusiast cars still come with optional manuals. The heavy-duty market is still dominated by manuals, with many of these transmissions being automated.  

Most modern automobile manual transmissions use synchronizers – conical brass rings attached to each drive gear – to match the rotational speed of the drive and dog gears during shifts. Without synchronizers, these gears would clash as they try to mate.  Transmissions without synchronizers require a shifting technique called double clutching to engage the gears smoothly.  

Maximizing Shift Quality

Whether you’re driving a sports car or an over-the-road truck, smooth shifts are important. The lubricant’s viscosity and friction properties play a vital role in shift quality. Viscosity that is too high could prevent shifting the gears until the transmission warms up or result in abnormally high temperatures during operation. Viscosity that is too low could cause the synchronizer and dog gear to engage too quickly, resulting in grinding or hard shifts and abnormal transmission wear. The wrong frictional properties will result in poor shift quality and possibly accelerated synchronizer wear.

Synchromesh Lubrication 

Despite their relative simplicity compared to automatic transmissions, manuals require properly engineered lubricants – particularly the synchromesh units – to operate properly. In addition to providing smooth shifts, the lubricant must…

Help control gear wear

Reduce heat for improved gear efficiency

Inhibit corrosion to gear surfaces 

Controlling wear isn’t as simple as it sounds. The relative motion between gears squeezes out the oil, meaning the microscopic film of lubricant left behind must be sufficiently resilient to withstand high pressures. Typically, the lubricant cannot contain high levels of anti-wear and extreme-pressure additives because they deteriorate synchromesh materials and disrupt gear engagement. 

Manual transmissions may call for motor oil; an automatic transmission fluid; a GL-4 or GL-5 fluid or a fluid formulated for synchromesh units. Motor oils are common manual transmission lubricants in older vehicles, but they generally do not offer adequate protection in modern transmissions. 

AMSOIL formulates a complete line of synthetic manual transmission fluids for passenger car/light truck and heavy-duty applications. They are specifically formulated to deliver smooth shifts and long transmission life for their intended applications, helping you get the most out of your vehicle. 

Synthetic Manual Transmission & Transaxle Gear Lube

Synthetic Synchromesh Transmission Fluid

Synthetic Powershift Transmission Fluid

SAE 50 Long-Life Synthetic Transmission Oil