Should I Use Synthetic Motor Oil?

Should I Use Synthetic Motor Oil?

There are lots of choices when it comes to finding the best motor oil. The best synthetic motor oils are clearly superior to the conventional, petroleum based oils that are refined from crude oil.

They are stronger and withstand engine stresses better, improve engine performance and fuel economy, extend drain intervals, and protect vital, internal parts better than petroleum based oils.

They are better for the environment as a whole and diminish the use of precious natural resources, as well.

The question then becomes not which type of oil is superior, but which type and brand of synthetic oil is the best synthetic motor oil for one’s individual use.

Motor oil does more than just lubricate an engine.

It also forms a film on bearing surfaces that lifts and separates moving parts so they don’t touch to reduce friction and wear. The oil film also acts like a shock absorber to cushion reciprocating and rotating parts.

Motor oil also serves as a coolant for critical engine parts such as the crankshaft bearings and valve-train.

Motor oil also helps prevent rust and corrosion inside the engine, and helps keep surfaces clean by dissolving and carrying away dirt and varnish deposits.

Thinner oils have a water-like consistency and pour more easily at low temperatures than heavier, thicker oils that have a more honey-like consistency.

Thin is good for easier cold weather starting and reducing friction, while thick is better for maintaining film strength and oil pressure at high temperatures and loads.

Multi-viscosity oils flow well at low temperature for easier starting yet retain enough thickness and film strength at high temperature to provide adequate film strength and lubrication.

Multi-viscosity grade oils have a wide viscosity range which is indicated by a two-number rating.

The first number with the “W” refers to the oil’s cold temperature viscosity, while the second number refers to its high temperature viscosity.

Modern motor oils also contain detergents and dispersants to reduce varnish and sludge formation to keep the engine clean.

There are also “anti-oxidants” to minimize oil burning when the oil gets hot.

Rust and corrosion inhibitors are added to counteract the harmful effects of water, unburned fuel and exhaust gases that blow past the rings and enter the crankcase.

This prevents the formation of acids that can pit bearing surfaces “Foam inhibitors” are used to minimize the formation of air bubbles as the oil is churned by moving parts “Wetting agents” help the oil stick to hot surfaces so it doesn’t run off and leave the metal unlubricated and unprotected.

Finally, there are “anti-wear” and “extreme-pressure” additives.

Choosing the best synthetic motor oil to fit one’s individual situation can be done simply with a little research and simple math.

As long as the choice made has some synthetic protection included, it will be an excellent one for the vehicle in the long run.

By taking care of your oil you take care of your car’s engine resulting in fewer trips to the repair shop.

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Why Use Synthetic Oil?

Why Use Synthetic Oil?

Synthetic Oil is the Oil of the Future and is Available Today! One of a free twenty video series on “Questions People Have Asked About Using Synthetic Oil.”

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