Engine

The most pressing question regarding when to switch a new engine to synthetic oil is the “break-in” process. The concern was always that synthetic oil was so “slippery” that the piston rings would not seat properly and oil consumption would plague the engine going forward.

While break-in may have been a legitimate concern in years past, today’s manufacturing processes are so precise and tolerances are so close that a break-in period is no longer necessary. AMSOIL Technical Services tells us that new car engines are essentially broken-in before they are shipped.

So can synthetic oil be installed at mile one? Yes it can and you will not have oil consumption issues because of it. In fact some car engines come filled with synthetic oil from the factory.  But, we still suggest keeping that factory fill in the engine for a while before switching over to a high quality synthetic engine oil. The reason being is there may be tiny filings, manufacturing by-products and silicon leaching out of the gaskets that will contaminate this new oil. We suggest that it is better to let the original oil and filter get these contaminants out of the way before switching over. A period of 800 to 1500 miles (1200 to 2400 kilometers) is a safe period to make the earliest change, in our opinion.

One can certainly switch a bit sooner or later, as this is a rough estimate. We do see some auto  manufacturers and dealers suggest waiting until the first scheduled oil change which can be up to 10,000 miles (16,000 kilometers) and more. While this may not be the end of the world, we do not feel comfortable with having the factory fill and all of the accompanying contaminants in place for that long.

Transmission

There is a sound contention that manual or automatic transmissions do not require a break-in period at all. Also as there is no combustion, one could argue that transmission fluid has a much easier life than engine oil. That being said, a switch to synthetic transmission fluid is very beneficial as it is much more resistant to extreme heat, cold temperatures and heavy loads than factory conventional fluids. That is why many new car and truck owners are anxious to flush out the conventional factory fill at the earliest opportunity. When should this occur?

Most car manufacturers will suggest changing the fluid at the regularly scheduled service interval, but this can take years to reach. Due to gasket residue, clutch material and gear filings, we are not comfortable with waiting that long. An interval of around 15,000 miles (24,000 kilometers) is a completely arbitrary milestone, but that is the point that we feel it’s time to switch to synthetic transmission fluid. By that point the factory fill has done it’s job of flushing out any contaminants that come with new transmissions.

Differentials

Many of today’s differentials in trucks and SUV’s come equipped with synthetic gear lube right from the factory. So does it need to be changed? Evidence suggests that it should be changed and much earlier than you might think. Differentials do indeed go through a break-in process and see the appearance of significant wear metals in the early going. Testing shows that the majority of these wear metals show up in the first 5000 miles (8000 kilometers) of the differential’s life.

Therefore, we suggest dropping the factory fill at that point and switching to an elite synthetic gear lube like AMSOIL Severe Gear. You are then set for a long time.

Source: Differential Oil Change After Initial Break-in (123k PDF)

Transfer Case

Transfer cases can benefit greatly from a synthetic fluid, including improved wear control, better engagement in cold weather and resistance to extreme heat.  There are many types of four-wheel drive systems (full-time, part-time, automatic) and the depending on the vehicle’s usage, the amount of load on the transfer case can vary quite drastically.

These variables leaves when to drop the factory fill wide open. As a transfer case generates wear metals derived from gears and chains, we change out the fluid when we change the rear differential oil for the first time. Do keep in mind that we live in the snow belt, so our 4WD system sees regular service. You may want to wait for a full year, if your 4WD system doesn’t see much action.

Conclusion

As you do not change transmission, differential and transfer case fluids very often, why not put the best available products into service? We can offer the superb AMSOIL Synthetic Oil line at wholesale shipped from Canada or the US. Request a price list using the form at the top-right of this page or call us at 1-800-748-5781.

To find the correct AMSOIL Synthetic Oil for each component of your vehicle, use our helpful Online Application Guide.

The new AMSOIL Synthetic Fifth-Wheel Grease is a heavy-duty lubricant designed to provide long-lasting wear and corrosion protection for fifth-wheel and ball hitches. It is designed to stay in place over long service while resisting heavy loads and water washout. It comes in a handy 10 ounce tube for quick application and convenient storage on the road. It is available in single tubes or a case of 12.

In other news, AMSOIL has shifted their Series 2000 Synthetic Racing Grease over to the Dominator Racing line. The label and product name has changed, but the formulation remains the same. The newly named AMSOIL Dominator Racing Grease is the go-to product for grease-able components that are exposed to high speed and extreme heat. It also excels in extreme cold and has outstanding water resistance. Dominator Synthetic Racing Grease is suitable for wheel bearing and chassis lubrication.

We can offer AMSOIL products at wholesale. Simply request a price list using the form located at the upper-right of this page or call us at 1-800-748-5781.

These competitors include :

• Mobil 1™ Extended Performance
• Royal Purple High Performance Motor Oil
• Lucas Synthetic
• Red Line High Performance Motor Oil
• Castrol Edge® with Titanium Fluid Strength Technology®
• Pennzoil Ultra™
• Petro-Canada SUPREME Synthetic™
• Quaker State Ultimate Durability™
• Valvoline SynPower® Full Synthetic Motor Oil

This stacked field of 5W-30 synthetic engine oils were put through their paces in a series of five different American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) recognized testing protocols. To remove any possibility of bias, the samples were coded and tested in random order.

The motor oils were tested to determine resistance to depositing, wear control, high temperature stability, resistance to acid formation and cold temperature performance.

As usual, AMSOIL fares very well versus the competition. The cynical among us may question the veracity of the results, but keep in mind that the publication of phony test results would result in a heap of legal troubles. AMSOIL has been “naming names” for 40 years and has their data has never been challenged.

See the complete test paper: A Study of 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oils (420KB PDF)

Buy AMSOIL 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil at wholesale in Canada or the United States. Request a wholesale price list using the form in the upper right of this page.

Water Resistant Gear Lube for ATV Differentials

Whether your ATV’s differentials call for an SAE 80, 80W-90 or 75W-90, we have a gear lube that can cover all of those viscosities and withstand up to 10% water contamination. AMSOIL Universal Synthetic Marine 75W/80W-90 Gear Lube is suitable for applications requiring an API GL-4 or GL-5 product. Why use a marine gear lube in an ATV? This gear lube has same the extreme pressure (EP) additive content and protective abilities of gear lubes designed for dry land, but it is specifically formulated to withstand water contamination. Water can compromise a gear lube’s extreme pressure properties and promote foaming which can quickly lead to metal-to-metal contact. AMSOIL Universal Synthetic Marine Gear Lube not only reduces the risk of water damage, the synthetic formula delivers all-climate wear control of gears and bearings and also conditions seals to prevent leaks.

Water Resistant Grease for ATV’s

If your ATV has serviceable grease fittings on u-joints or suspension pivots, AMSOIL Synthetic Water Resistant Grease is our foremost grease recommendation, even if your machine rarely takes a dip. The sophisticated synthetic formula is fortified with extreme pressure additives and is suitable for general chassis, u-joint or wheel bearing service. When the going gets soggy, this grease resists water spray-off, complete submersion, mud, snow and ice. This grease stays put, no matter what you throw at it. For that reason we can’t imagine a better grease for ATV, snowmobile, marine or general-use around your yard.

Fuel Additive for ATV’s

Getting water in a differential or suspension pivot will cause problems over time, but getting moisture in your fuel can stop you in your tracks. While it’s unlikely that water can enter your fuel tank during a trail ride, you can’t always be sure about fuel sources along the way. The ethanol content of gasoline absorbs moisture and can cause a severe lean condition when it makes its way into the combustion chamber. It can also cause gumming and depositing. AMSOIL Quickshot Powersport Fuel Additive neutralizes moisture in fuel, allowing it to pass harmlessly through the engine. Quickshot also cleans out existing carb or injector deposits as well as those in the combustion chamber. It even stabilizes gasoline between rides. Quickshot is highly beneficial in any small engine or gasoline-powered toy.

ATV Engine Oil

If moisture makes it’s way into your engine, rust and corrosion can form over time. AMSOIL Synthetic ATV & Motorcycle Oils borrow anti-corrosion additive technology from their marine engine oils to protect engine internals from corrosion damage between rides and during long-term storage. AMSOIL Synthetic ATV Oils also offer benefits such as lower friction, reduced wear, cooler operation and improved start-up protection in any climate. Available in 0W-40, 10W-30, 10W-40, 20W-50 and SAE 60.

These items can go a long way toward preserving your investment, no matter how hard you push the limits.

As a wholesale AMSOIL dealer, we can offer these items at the lowest prices in Canada or the United States. Contact us for a wholesale price list using the form at the top-right of this page or call us at 1-800-748-5781.

If you have questions or require assistance, feel free to contact us at 1-800-748-5781 or info@oildepot.ca. ]]> http://www.oildepot.ca/amsoil-offices-and-order-department-closed-today/feed/ 0 http://www.oildepot.ca/article-answers-your-questions-about-amsoil-motorcycle-oil/ http://www.oildepot.ca/article-answers-your-questions-about-amsoil-motorcycle-oil/#comments Thu, 18 Apr 2013 23:56:30 +0000 Marc Roden http://www.oildepot.ca/?p=10859 For those thinking about taking the plunge and trying AMSOIL Synthetic Motorcycle Oil for the first time, you may have questions. You may even have reservations about trying a synthetic oil in your bike. We have put together a collection of commonly asked questions about motorcycle oil.

Some of the questions include:

• What are the benefits of synthetic motorcycle oil?
• Are there any downsides to using synthetics in your bike?
• Is synthetic oil wet-clutch compatible?
• Do I need to use an AMSOIL Oil Filter with your oil?
• We also answer some Harley-specific questions.

Check out our Frequently Asked Questions About AMSOIL Synthetic Motorcycle Oil

Which choice is better for Harley-Davidson transmissions?

A particularly nice feature about AMSOIL 20W-50 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil is that it can be used in the engine, transmission and primary chaincase of Harley-Davidson motorcycles. But some riders wonder if a gear lube like AMSOIL Severe Gear Synthetic 75W-110 or 75W-140 is a better choice. Let’s explore this question.

For Evolution 1340 and all Twin Cam engines, AMSOIL’s first recommendation for the engine, transmission and primary chaincase is AMSOIL 20W-50 Motorcycle Oil. For the transmission of these models, they offer a secondary recommendation of AMSOIL Severe Gear 75W-110 and a third option being Severe Gear 75W-140. Some riders claim to experience quieter operation with these options, but are there real world benefits?

First, let’s establish that AMSOIL 20W-50 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil is fortified with extreme pressure additives to deliver maximum gear wear control. The Severe Gear Lubes will work just fine, but will not offer improved wear control over the 20W-50 motorcycle oil.

Let’s point out that the AMSOIL Motorcycle 20W-50 and Severe Gear 75W-110 are identical in terms of thickness at operating temperature. Gear lubes use a different viscosity grade scale on the label to prevent confusion between gear lubes and motor oils. Here is the kinematic viscosity of each product at 100 degrees centigrade as shown in centistokes (cST).

20W-50 Motorcycle- 20.4 cST
75W-110 Severe Gear-  20.3 cST
75W-140 Severe Gear- 27.5 cST

So will a thicker oil offer better protection in Harley transmissions?

No that is not the case. The Severe Gear 75W-140 may offer quieter operation simply because of the thicker viscosity. It doesn’t necessarily mean that better wear control is the result. In fact a thicker oil could potentially result in slightly higher operating temperatures.

Bottom Line

AMSOIL 20W-50 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil aces the FZG Gear Test with a perfect score of “zero” wear and again, is loaded with extreme pressure additives to deliver the ultimate in wear prevention. It is also formulated to limit friction for optimum shifting performance.  If you wish to use one of the Severe Gear products, that is no problem. The bottom line is that there is no appreciable advantage to using them over the 20W-50. The convenience of using the 20W-50 in all three holes trumps any perceived advantage in our opinion.

The DTV Shredder from BPG Werks

Basically you stand on the Shredder and use the hand throttle to go forward. To turn the unit, you lean as though you were on a skateboard. A patented CVT transmission changes the speed of the tracks as you lean. It is powered by a Lifan 196cc four-stroke engine that produces about 13 horsepower and generates a top speed of around 30MPH. As you’ll see in the video, the Shredder can traverse virtually any type of terrain. Rocks, sand, snow, water crossings (up to 10” deep), fallen logs and steep grades are child’s play to this track-driven wonder. The handle bar assembly folds down for easy transport and storage.

BPG Werks also has a military version is the works which is a battery/gas engine hybrid with extensive unmanned, remote controlled capabilities.

BPG Werks is about to ship their backlog of initial orders. Base units retail for $4000 (US). The Shredder will soon be available through their dealer network and can also be purchased online for home delivery.

We have a feeling that the Shredder is going to be more that a passing fad and this could very well be the dawn of a new powersport category.

1. AMSOIL Synthetic 20W-50 Motorcycle Oil

There’s little wonder as to why this product is among AMSOIL’s most universally praised products. Harley riders can hear, feel and see the difference that this synthetic oil makes to the operation of their ride. Cooler operating temperatures, silky shifting, smoother engine operation, increased horsepower, longer drain intervals and lower oil consumption are just some of the benefits. This product is not only designed to enhance engine operation, it also contains extreme pressure additives for maximum protection of the transmission and primary chaincase. This oil also delivers powerful anti-rust/corrosion protection during storage, so your baby is protected during downtime and during the toughest riding conditions. As we’ve said many times, AMSOIL 20W-50 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil is the most cost-effective upgrade you can make to your Harley-Davidson motorcycle. For Flathead, Knucklehead, Panhead and Shovelhead models, see AMSOIL Synthetic SAE 60 Motorcycle Oil.

2. AMSOIL Ea Motorcycle Oil Filters

The best way to complement a great oil is sound oil filtration. AMSOIL Ea Motorcycle Oil Filters deliver unsurpassed protection with a filtering efficiency rating of 98.7% at 15 microns! These filters boast top-shelf features like a full-synthetic media, a silicone anti-drainback valve and a nitrile gasket. The high capacity media and quality construction allow for them to stay in service for as long as the AMSOIL 20W-50 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil. That can be up to twice the suggested manufacturer service interval or one year. Maximize your engine life with this quality item. Available in black or chrome finish.

3. NGK Iridium IX Spark Plugs

Can a set of spark plugs increase horsepower and improve the operation of your Harley-Davidson engine? Yes! The combination of AMSOIL 20W-50 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil and NGK Iridium Plugs can make a dramatic improvement in the performance of your engine. Dyno testing shows a horsepower increase of up to 6.9% and torque increase of up to 5.9% with this potent tandem. Maximize the efficiency and firepower of your Harley for a just a few dollars. See the dyno testing result at AMSOIL Motorcycle Oils/NGK Iridium IX Spark Plugs Harley-Davidson Dyno Test. P.S. We sell these too!

4. Quickshot Powersport Fuel Additive

This multi-functional product cleans and protects your fuel system for “like-new” performance and sure starts every time. As you never know what kind of fuel quality you’ll run across in your travels, Quickshot negates any risk that could be lurking at the pumps. Quickshot neutralizes the risk of ethanol/moisture issues and even dirty gasoline. Quickshot also removes deposits from carbs, fuel injectors, combustion chambers, piston crowns and sparks plugs. It even stabilizes fuel between rides. Look to reduce the risk of rough idling, pre-ignition and poor throttle response.

5. AMSOIL Shock Therapy Synthetic Suspension Fluid (Medium #10)

With the four previous products, we have optimized the operation of your engine and transmission. Now let’s smooth out that ride for those long, hot days in the saddle. AMSOIL Shock Therapy Synthetic Suspension Fluid Medium #10 delivers smooth, fade-free performance for a considerable upgrade over stock Harley-Davidson fork fluid. Shock Therapy’s premium synthetic formula offers consistent, low friction performance over a wide temperature range and over long service intervals. Conditioning agents keep seals pliable and leak-free.

More AMSOIL Motorcycle Products

Find the correct products for your motorcycle in our Online Application Guide. ]]> http://www.oildepot.ca/top-five-amsoil-products-for-harley-davidson-motorcycles/feed/ 0 http://www.oildepot.ca/amsoil-synthetic-atf-undergoes-independent-testing/ http://www.oildepot.ca/amsoil-synthetic-atf-undergoes-independent-testing/#comments Thu, 04 Apr 2013 01:35:42 +0000 Marc Roden http://www.oildepot.ca/?p=10732 AMSOIL’s Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid products are in the news. They are receiving a name change, AMSOIL has released some third-party test results and the specification list has been updated.

AMSOIL Synthetic ATF Name Change

Both the Multi-Vehicle ATF and Fuel Efficient ATF have been rolled into the Signature Series family. They are now called Signature Series Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF and Signature Series Fuel Efficient Synthetic ATF. The Signature Series moniker is given only to AMSOIL’s best, so this change emphasizes the elite quality of these two products. Along with the new names, come new labels and a new look. The formulations are unchanged.

Independent, Third-Party ATF Testing

AMSOIL commissioned independent testing on the Signature Series Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF under real-world conditions. The ATF was put through the its paces in Las Vegas taxi cabs. As you can imagine, Las Vegas cabs endure continuous stop-and-go conditions in extreme desert heat.

After 100,000 miles of taxi service, used AMSOIL Synthetic ATF samples were tested using the Aluminum Beaker Oxidation Test (ABOT). This test determines an ATF’s ability to resist oxidation. To meet the Chrysler ATF+4 specification, a new fluid must be able to resist oxidation after 500 hours of ABOT testing. As seen in the chart below, the AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF that had been USED for 100,000 miles in a Las Vegas cab not only passed the ABOT test at 500 hours, but had another 300 hours in reserve over and above that threshold!

Suffice it to say, AMSOIL Synthetic ATF’s are engineered to protect your automatic transmission from extreme heat, heavy towing and harsh conditions. A transmission oil change is performed infrequently, so why not use a fluid that will perform and protect with no compromises?

Specification Updates

AMSOIL ATF’s are now recommended for the following specifications:

AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF (ATF)

• GM DEXRON® III
• Ford MERCON® & MERCON V, ESP-M2C166-H
• Chrysler ATF+4®, MOPAR® AS68RC
• Toyota Type T-III & T-IV
• Honda Z-1 (Not CVT)
• Hyundai SP II & III
• Mazda ATF-M, ATF-III, ATF-MV
• Subaru ATF, ATF-HP
• Nissan Matic D, J & K
• Mitsubishi SP II & III
• Kia SP II & III, ATF Red-1
• Volkswagen  G 052 162, G 052 990, G 055 025
• Suzuki 3314 & 3317
• BMW 7045E, LA 2634, LT 71141
• Audi G 052 162, G 052 990, G 055 025
• Volvo 97340, 97341
• Mercedes Benz 236.1, 236.2, 236.3, 236.5, 236.6, 236.7, 236.9, 236.10, 236.11, 236.81
• Man 339F, 339 V1, 339 V2, 339 Z1, Z2 & Z3
• JWS 3309, 3314, 3317
• Idemitsu K-17
• Shell 3403, LA 2634
• Texaco ETL-7045E, ETL- 8072B, N402
• Voith 55.6335.XX (G607), 55.6336.XX (G1363)
• Allison C-4, TES 389
• ZF TE-ML 03D, 04D, 09, 14A, 14B, 14C, 16L, 17C

AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel Efficient Synthetic ATF (ATL)

• Ford MERCON® LV, SP
• GM DEXRON® VI
• Toyota WS
• Honda DW-1®
• Nissan Matic-S
• Hyundai/Kia SP-IV
• Mitsubishi SP-IV, ATF J2
• Volkswagen G 055 005, G 055 162, G 060 162
• Audi G 055 005, G 055 162, G 060 162
• BMW 83 22 0 142 516, 83 22 2 152 426
• Saab 93 165 147
• JWS 3324
• Shell M-1375.4, M-1375.5, M-1375.6, M-L 12108

Here is the complete AMSOIL Synthetic Transmission Oil line. ]]> http://www.oildepot.ca/amsoil-synthetic-atf-undergoes-independent-testing/feed/ 0