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Archive for category: Tech Discussion

John Deere Zero-Turn Mower Transmission And Engine Oil Options

AMSOIL Product Applications, Tech Discussion

John Deere ZTrak zero-turn lawn mowers are some of the more popular models on the market. Let’s take a look at AMSOIL synthetic transmission and engine oil substitutes for each model. We will also list the oil change intervals for each ZTrak transmission and engine. If you have questions, feel free to contact us using the form on this page.

AMSOIL products discussed on this page include:

  • Synthetic Tractor Hydraulic/Transmission Oil 
  • Synthetic Small Engine 10W-30 and 10W-40
  • AMSOIL Signature Series Max-Duty and Heavy-Duty Series Diesel Oil 

Z300 Series Zero-Turn Mower Transmission And Engine Oil

Models include Z335E, Z335M, Z345M, Z345R, Z355E, Z355R, Z365R, Z375R- Gasoline Engines

Z300 Transmission Oil And Service Interval

The transmission used in the Z300 Series is a “sealed unit”. Therefore, the oil cannot be changed.

Z300 Engine Oil And Service Interval

John Deere suggests SAE 30 or SAE 40 for Z300 series motors. AMSOIL Small Engine Synthetic 10W-30 or 10W-40 can replace straight 30 or 40-weight oils.

Deere suggests changing the Z300 Series engine oil every 50 hours or once per year (whichever comes first).

Z500 Series Zero-Turn Mower Transmission And Engine Oil

Models include Z515E, Z530M, Z530R, Z545R- Gasoline Engines

Z500 Transmission Oil Type And Service Interval

The transmissions on the Z500 Series transmission do not require oil and filter changes. However, the oil level should be maintained at the “Full” line.

John Deere suggests hydraulic fluid meeting the John Deere “J20C” specification or 10W-30 motor oil. The AMSOIL product that meets this spec is AMSOIL Synthetic Tractor Hydraulic/Transmission Oil.

Z500 Engine Oil And Service Interval

John Deere suggests 10W-30, 10W-40, 15W-40, SAE 30 or SAE 40 motor oil meeting the API SJ specification (or newer). The AMSOIL replacement is Small Engine Synthetic 10W-30 or 10W-40.

The recommended engine oil change interval for the Z500 Series is every 50 hours or once per year, whichever comes first.

Z700 Series Zero-Turn Mower Transmission And Engine Oil

Z720E, Z730M, Z735E, Z735M, Z740R- Gasoline Engines

Z700 Transmission Oil Type And Service Interval

John Deere suggests hydraulic fluid meeting the “J20C” specification. The AMSOIL product that meets the John Deere J20C spec is AMSOIL Synthetic Tractor Hydraulic/Transmission Oil.

Change transmission oil and filter every 250 hours or once per year, whichever comes first.

Z700 Gasoline Engine Oil And Service Interval

John Deere suggests 10W-30, 10W-40, 15W-40, SAE 30, SAE 40 meeting API SJ or newer. The AMSOIL replacement is Small Engine Synthetic 10W-30 or 10W-40.

The recommended engine oil change interval for the Z700 Series is every 50 hours or once per year (whichever comes first).

Z900 Gasoline Series Zero-Turn Mower Transmission And Engine Oil

Z-Trak Pro Series- Z900B, Z900M, Z900R Z900E, Z920M, Z930M, Z945M EFI, Z945M, Z955M, Z960M, Z970R- Gasoline Engines

Z900 Transmission Oil Type And Service Interval

John Deere suggests a hydraulic fluid meeting the “J20C” specification. The AMSOIL substitute that meets the John Deere J20C spec is AMSOIL Synthetic Tractor Hydraulic/Transmission Oil.

The transmission oil and filter should be changed after a 300-hour break-in period. Then every 500 hours or once per year thereafter.

Z900 Gasoline Engine Oil And Service Interval

John Deere suggests 10W-30, 10W-40, 15W-40, SAE 30, SAE 40 meeting API SJ or newer. The AMSOIL replacement is Small Engine Synthetic 10W-30 or 10W-40.

The recommended engine oil change interval for the Z900 Series (gasoline engine) is every 100 hours or once per year (whichever comes first).

Z994R Z-Trak Pro Series Diesel

Z9994R Transmission Oil Type And Service Interval

John Deere suggests a hydraulic fluid meeting the “J20C” specification. The AMSOIL product that meets the John Deere J20C spec is AMSOIL Synthetic Tractor Hydraulic/Transmission Oil.

The transmission oil and filter should be changed after 300-hour break-in period. Then every 500 hours or once per year thereafter.

Z994R Diesel Engine Oil And Service Interval

John Deere recommends diesel engine oil (0W-40, 5W-40, 15W-40) meeting the API CD (or higher), ACEA Oil Sequence E3 (or higher). Our suggestion is AMSOIL Signature Series Max-Duty Synthetic Diesel Oil or AMSOIL Heavy-Duty Synthetic Diesel Oil.

The recommended engine oil change interval is every 250 hours.

Z997R Z-Trak Pro Series Diesel

Z997R Transmission Oil Type And Service Interval

John Deere suggests a hydraulic fluid meeting the “J20C” specification. Our product that meets the John Deere J20C spec is AMSOIL Synthetic Tractor Hydraulic/Transmission Oil.

The transmission oil and filter should be changed after a 50-hour break-in period. Then every 500 hours or once per year thereafter.

Z974R Diesel Engine Oil And Service Interval

Deere recommends diesel engine oil (0W-40, 5W-40, 15W-40) meeting the API CJ-4 (or higher), or ACEA Oil E6, E9 (or higher) or JASO DH-2. Our replacement is AMSOIL Signature Series Max-Duty Synthetic Diesel Oil or AMSOIL Heavy-Duty Synthetic Diesel Oil.

The engine oil change interval after break-in is 50 hours. Then every 250 hours or once per year thereafter.

AMSOIL Synthetic Replacements For John Deere Hydraulic/Transmission And Engine Oil

Hydrostatic/Transmission Oil

AMSOIL Synthetic Tractor Hydraulic/Transmission Oil meets both the John Deere J20C and J20D (winter grade) specifications. This product is ideal for use in all John Deere Z-Trak Zero-turn hydrostatic/transmission systems.

This AMSOIL Hydraulic/Transmission Oil a top-tier, 100% synthetic product. Therefore, it is an upgrade over the mineral John Deere Hy-Gard and also the Low-Viscosity Hy-Gard Transmission & Hydraulic Oil.

Features include:

  • Robust wear protection
  • Consistent performance in extreme heat or cold
  • Capable of long service life
  • Conditions seal and hoses
  • Protects against internal rust and corrosion during storage

Gasoline Engine Oil

For John Deere Zero-Turn mowers with gasoline engines, we can’t imagine a better option than AMSOIL Synthetic Small Engine Series. The 10W-30 or 10W-40 options are suggested for ZTrak gasoline engines. This commercial-grade motor oil is designed to handle long-days and tough conditions. Features include:

  • Robust wear control
  • Over-built to withstand long service intervals
  • Handles extreme hot or cold climates
  • Protects engine internals from rust and corrosion

Diesel Engine Oil

John Deere diesel-powered zero-turn lawn mowers can use 15W-40, 5W-40 or 0W-40 diesel engine oil. This covers both the Z994R and Z997R models. The AMSOIL synthetic diesel engines oils that cover the specifications for these models are the ultra-premium Signature Series Max-Duty or the value-priced Heavy-Duty Series.

January 22, 2021/by Marc Roden

Do AMSOIL Diesel Fuel Additives Demulsify Or Emulsify?

Tech Discussion

AMSOIL Diesel All-In-One Fuel Additive A reader asks: Do AMSOIL diesel additives demulsify or emulsify? In other words, if they demulsify, they collect moisture and help the water separator filter it out. If they emulsify, they would help the diesel fuel absorb the water to push it through the injectors and burn it.

Our answer: AMSOIL Diesel Additives are demulsifiers. They are designed to move moisture out of the fuel system as quickly as possible. Diesel fuels have inherent demulsifying properties. Therefore, AMSOIL Diesel Fuel Additives enhance these properties. The goal being to help water separators and prevent fuel pump damage.

Why Water In Diesel Fuel Is A Serious Problem

Moisture in diesel fuel can lead to a variety of headaches and performance issues. The most obvious being fuel gelling and filter plugging in cold weather. Moisture can also lead to foaming which can damage fuel pumps and injectors. Managing moisture with a good diesel additive only makes sense.

AMSOIL’s Diesel Fuel Additive Line

AMSOIL All-In-One Diesel Fuel Additive– This product does it all. Cleans injectors, boosts cetane, lubricates and lowers the fuel gel point.

AMSOIL Diesel Injector Clean Fuel Additive– Injector Clean delivers powerful cleaning of injectors and also lubricates pumps and injectors.

AMSOIL Cetane Boost– Improves diesel cetane levels up to seven points. Improves starting, fuel economy, reduces smoke and improves combustion for smoother performance.

AMSOIL Diesel Recovery Emergency Fuel Treatment– An emergency additive that thaws frozen or gelled diesel fuel. Unclogs fuel filters, lines and injector pumps.

In conclusion, using a good diesel fuel additive is vital. Keeping injectors and pumps lubricated and clean is paramount. It is also important to control potential moisture issues. AMSOIL offers specialized diesel additives that can contribute to consistent performance and protection.

To request a wholesale price list, simply contact us using the form on this page. 

October 15, 2020/by Marc Roden

Should A Thicker SAE 60 Oil Be Used To Fight Heat In Harley Engines?

Tech Discussion

AMSOIL V-Twin Synthetic 20W-50 A reader asks: I’ve got a 2014 Harley-Davidson Road King. Is it OK to run SAE 60 oil in the engine rather than 20W-50? I’m thinking that a thicker oil would be better in on really hot days. I also hear that a thicker oil will quiet down engine noise.

Our answer: You are far better off using 20W-50. There is no upside to using SAE 60 in your engine.

A thicker oil like SAE 60 will actually retain more heat. The result will likely be higher operating temperatures with SAE 60, rather than lower. SAE 60 is fine for older Harley engines like the Knucklehead, Panhead and Shovelhead.

As for noise suppression, the thicker SAE 60 may suppress rattles or knocks. But that doesn’t mean that it is providing superior engine protection.

All-in-all, there is no mechanical upside to switching to a thicker oil.

The Upside Of Running 20W-50

An ultra-premium synthetic like AMSOIL V-Twin 20W-50 will deliver lower operating temperatures over conventional oils. Better yet, it is designed to maintain its viscosity when exposed to long periods of extreme heat.

AMSOIL’s testing has shown that V-Twin 20W-50 can withstand operation at 500°F while maintaining its original viscosity. See the AMSOIL V-Twin Torture Test. It will easily withstand long hours and heavy heat. So, if the concern is oil shearing, using a 20W-50 is not an issue.

Another upside to going with 20W-50 is lower friction. A good synthetic like AMSOIL will optimize throttle response and fuel economy.

What About Thicker Oil In The Transmission And Primary?

The same principles apply. Thicker oil will retain heat and is liable to cause stiffer shifting. Noise may be somewhat suppressed, but that doesn’t meant that wear protection is enhanced.

One is wise to use products that are designed for primary and transmission use. AMSOIL V-Twin 20W-50 is formulated for use in the transmission and primary chaincase. AMSOIL also offers dedicated primary and transmission fluids for Harley V-Twins. There is no downside to using the V-Twin 20W-50 is all three components. Either the dedicated fluids or the V-Twin 20W-50 will work extremely well.

Conclusion: It is always wise to use the viscosity suggested for your application. Your engine was engineered for 20W-50 and there is no the upside to going with thicker oil. SAE 60 may actually provide the opposite of what you are hoping for.

See all of our articles about Harley-Davidson Motorcycles And Oil

October 3, 2020/by Marc Roden

Oil For Ford Mustang With Getrag 6-Speed Transmission?

Tech Discussion

AMSOIL Synthetic DCT Fluid A reader asks: I’ve got a 2020 Ford Mustang (5.0L) with the Getrag 6-speed manual transmission. I need a transmission fluid that substitutes Ford/Motorcraft XT-11-QDC Dual-Clutch Transmission Fluid or meets the Ford WSS-M2C200-C2 specification. Can you offer the proper fluid?

Our answer: Yes, we have a transmission fluid that meets the Ford WSS-M2C200-C2 standard. AMSOIL Synthetic DCT Fluid meets the Ford spec. It would be an excellent upgrade for your Mustang’s Getrag MT82 manual transmission.

Why Use AMSOIL Over Ford Dual-Clutch Transmission Fluid?

AMSOIL DCT Fluid is a 100% synthetic transmission oil. Some sites suggest that the Ford XT-11-QDC Fluid is “manufactured with synthetic base oils”. Although, Ford does not indicate on their label (or in their literature) whether this is a synthetic fluid. Let’s assume that the Motorcraft/Ford product is fully or partially synthetic.

However, it can be stated unequivocally the AMSOIL DCT Fluid is a full-synthetic product. With almost 50 years of synthetic oil experience, AMSOIL’s track record in this field speaks for itself.

Features And Benefits Of AMSOIL DCT Fluid

  • Delivers robust wear protection
  • Reduces friction for a smooth shifting experience
  • Maintains viscosity in extreme heat
  • Provides consistent performance in colder temperatures.
  • Offers long service life

Is It Necessary To Add The Ford XT-18 MT82 Transmission Additive?

Ford offers a transmission fluid additive that is specific to the Getrag MT82 transmission. Is it necessary to use this additive with AMSOIL AMSOIL Synthetic DCT Fluid?

No, it is not necessary to add the Ford/Motorcraft XT-18 MT82 Transmission Additive to AMSOIL DCT Fluid. AMSOIL’s policy of not using aftermarket oil additives also applies to this MT82 6-speed transmission.

This additive may well be a benefit when used with the Ford/Motorcraft Dual-Clutch Fluid.

Where Can I Buy AMSOIL Synthetic DCT Fluid?

We can offer AMSOIL Synthetic DCT Fluid at factory-direct prices in Canada and the USA. Contact us for a wholesale price list using the form on this page.

July 29, 2020/by Marc Roden

Two-Stroke Oil For Drag-Racing Yamaha Outboard Engine?

Tech Discussion

A reader asks: I have a question regarding 2-stroke outboard engine oil for racing. My engine is a modified, high-compression, 40-horsepower Yamaha. This motor is used only for drag racing. During races, it runs up to 8000 rpm.

Would AMSOIL Dominator 2-Stroke Racing Oil work well? Or would AMSOIL Interceptor be a better option for this engine?

AMSOIL Interceptor Synthetic 2-Stroke OilOur answer: First, let us preface our answer by mentioning that the following oil recommendations apply to racing situations only. Stock outboard engines would require a different oil. This is important and we’ll touch on that below. Both Dominator and Interceptor will provide superb wear protection for your racing outboard. But because of the racing/marine operating conditions, we would lean toward Interceptor.

Marine engines are still apt to run cooler and operate at lower rpm than 2-stroke engines used on dry land (even in this racing application). Think motocross or kart racing engines that run at 12,000-plus rpm. Therefore, your racing outboard engine will still be prone to engine deposits.

Interceptor contains a large amount of detergents. The motivation for the high detergent content is to keep snowmobile power valves clean. So, you would see cleaner engine internals with Interceptor over Dominator.

Dominator is a “racing-only” 2-stroke formula. It was designed for dry land racing engines that are torn-down frequently. Dominator should be used only in modified engines that run at extremely hot operating temperatures. Therefore, less detergents are required.

Interceptor will deliver all of the wear control needed. Plus it will ward off deposits and prevent plug fouling.

For marine engines in stock trim, do not use Interceptor or Dominator. For normal marine conditions, depositing and plug-fouling could be the result.

What About Oil For Outboard Engines Under Normal Use?

Important: Stock 2-stroke outboard engines should use HP Marine or AMSOIL Synthetic Injector Oil. Both will provide exceptional wear protection and resist engine deposits.

July 14, 2020/by Marc Roden

Can AMSOIL Gear Oil Be Used In Wavetrac Differentials?

AMSOIL Product Applications, Tech Discussion

A reader asks: I have a Moser M9 built Camaro with a Wavetrac differential. Wavetrac specifies not to use gear oil containing friction modifiers. I can’t get the oil they recommend for a cost that makes sense. Does AMSOIL have a gear oil that will work for this diff?

Our answer: All of AMSOIL’s automotive gear oils have some friction modifier content. Based on what Wavetrac is saying, it might be wise to go with a different brand for this particular application.

AMSOIL’s synthetic gear oils such as Severe Gear and Long Life Series can certainly be used in most all original equipment differentials. They are designed for both limited-slip and non-limited-slip differentials. The exception is AMSOIL Severe Gear SAE 190 Racing Gear Oil. Friction modifiers are not needed as it is strictly a racing oil.

AMSOIL Synthetics Gear Oils can also be used in many aftermarket differentials with outstanding results. AMSOIL gear oils do contain ingredients to help provide seamless performance in clutch-type limited-slip differentials. Wavetrac’s differentials might be the only situation where this isn’t a benefit. Or at the least, a harmless addition. AMSOIL synthetic gear oils provide outstanding wear control and cooler operation in most any other differential design.

In the case of Wavetrac’s aftermarket differentials, they use helical-cut gears. Apparently, the Wavetrac design requires some friction between the gears in order to function correctly. Therefore, gear oils that have some friction modifier content might be too slippery for proper operation. It is important to note that “synthetic” gear oils are not the issue for Wavetrac. It is the addition of limited-slip additives.

To find the correct gear oil for your differential, see our application guide.

Questions? Contact us using the form on this page or call us at 1-800-748-5781.

July 4, 2020/by Marc Roden

A High Zinc Motor Oil For Winter Use?

AMSOIL Product Applications, Tech Discussion

A reader asks: My daily driver pickup has a Chevy 283 engine with flat tappet cams. I use this truck all winter and it regularly sees sub-zero cold starts. So, I need a high zinc oil that flows fast in the winter. Will AMSOIL Z-Rod 10W-30 work well for winter use?

AMSOIL Series 3000 Synthetic 5W-30 Heavy-Duty Diesel Oil Our answer: AMSOIL Z-ROD Synthetic 10W-30 does offer very good cold weather properties. But we have another option that will offer better winter start-up performance.

AMSOIL Series 3000 Heavy Duty 5W-30 Diesel Oil has very high zinc and phosphorus. It is also designed for gasoline engines. This 5W-30 has 1379 ppm of zinc and 1266 ppm of phosphorus. These amounts are more than adequate for flat tappet cam protection.

Series 3000 5W-30 has a cold-pour-point of -47°C (-51°F). Therefore, it will flow very well on those cold mornings, while delivering exceptional flat tappet cam wear control.

What About Z-ROD 10W-30 Winter Performance?

First off, AMSOIL Z-ROD Synthetic 10W-30 offers 1440 ppm of zinc and 1320 ppm of phosphorus. So, its flat tappet cam credentials are ideal.

Z-ROD 10W-30 has a cold-pour-point of -46°C/-51°F. On the surface, it looks like the winter performance between Series 3000 5W-30 and Z-ROD 10W-30 is identical. The cold-pour-points of the two oils are within 1°C.

The cold-pour-point is the temperature threshold where a motor oil stops flowing.

But there is more to the story.

Comparing “Cold Cranking Simulator” Values

An important indicator of a motor oil’s ability to perform in extreme cold is the “cold cranking simulator” (CCS) test. This is a widely recognized industry lab test. In the CCS test, a motor oil is cooled down to a specific temperature. Then a crankshaft is rotated in the chilled oil. The viscosity of the motor oil is measured in “centipoise”. (cP)

A lower viscosity number scored in this test means better oil flow in extreme cold.

Industry standards dictate that 5W-30 motor oils are measured at -30°C and 10W-30 oils are measured at -25°C.

Therefore, the CCS numbers for these two products are not measured on exactly the same scale. But we can extrapolate.

  • Series 3000 5W-30- CCS @ -30C is 5286 cP
  • Z-ROD 10W-30- CCS @ -25C is 5138 cP

Remember, the lower the score in this test, the better an oil performs in cold weather.

If Z-ROD 10W-30’s CCS test was measured at -30°C, it’s cold cranking performance would turn out to be about 15% worse than Series 3000 5W-30.

To sum up, both AMSOIL Series 3000 5W-30 and Z-ROD 10W-30 offer very good winter performance. The 5W-30 has a distinct edge in terms of winter-cold-cranking performance and would be our choice for this scenario.

June 23, 2020/by Marc Roden

Oil Filter By-Pass Spring Setting For Harley-Davidson Engines?

Tech Discussion

AMSOIL Ea Motorcycle Oil Filters A reader asks: Regarding AMSOIL oil filters for Harley-Davidson engines. What is the by-pass spring setting on these filters?

Our answer: AMSOIL Tech Services tells us that the by-pass spring pressure setting on both the EAOM134 (black) and EAOM134C (chrome) is 11-17 PSI. This may seem like a wide margin, but that’s the only number they offer for publication.

Technical Services also mentioned that in Harley-Davidson engines, the filter would have to completely plug to send it into by-pass mode. With millions of miles logged by our customers, they have never ever heard of this happening.

Normal operation would never put these filters into by-pass.

The Milwaukee-8 and many Twin-Cam engines use the AMSOIL EAOM134 oil filter.

About AMSOIL Ea Motorcycle Oil Filters

The heart of these oil filters is the world-class synthetic media. It delivers elite small particle removal. In addition, heavy-duty parts were chosen to construct the rest of these units. All of this makes AMSOIL filters a great match for any V-Twin engine.

Other Motorcycle Oil Filter Shopping Considerations

Don’t get caught up with searching for the longest possible filter. See our article about Why Harley-Davidson Released A Longer Oil Filter For the Milwaukee-8 Engine.

Also, be careful when comparing oil filter efficiency numbers. These numbers are not always what they seem. Efficiency numbers can be measured on different scales. Therefore, the numbers offered by two different filter makers can be apples and oranges. See the article Do Harley-Davidson Oil Filters Really Filter Down To 5-Microns?.

To sum up, the by-pass spring setting on motorcycle oils filters is not a major concern when choosing a filter. The by-pass spring setting will be in the proper range if the filter is designed for your application. It is far more important to look for sturdy construction and a high-quality filter media.

To find the correct oil filter for your Harley engine, see our application guide.

Related: Our Harley-Davidson Article Compilation 

Questions? Contact us using the form on this page or call us at 1-800-748-5781.

June 11, 2020/by Marc Roden

Can 75W-140 Gear Oil Be Used In Harley-Davidson Transmissions?

Tech Discussion

AMSOIL Severe Gear 75W-140 Synthetic Gear Oil A reader asks: Can I use 75W-140 gear oil in my 2007 Harley-Davidson Road Glide transmission? Some say that the heavier oil quiets down the transmission. Is there any problem with this?

Our answer: It is perfectly acceptable to use 75W-140 gear oil in Harley-Davidson transmissions. But, do consider that 75W-140 is much thicker than oils typically used in Harley transmissions. For instance, AMSOIL V-Twin Synthetic Transmission Oil is an SAE 110 gear oil. Let’s discuss the pros and cons of going with 75W-140.

Pros
The reason that some Harley owners use 75W-140 is that the transmission tends to run quieter. The thicker fluid can dampen noises and rattles.

Cons
The downside to using a thicker oil is that it will hold more heat. Hotter transmission operating temperatures would be the result.

Other Considerations

Wear protection– Using a 75W-140 will not improve gear wear protection. AMSOIL V-Twin Synthetic Transmission Oil or AMSOIL V-Twin 20W-50 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil can provide maximum transmission life. Wear protection doesn’t necessarily improve by using a thicker oil.

Shifting performance– There is no shifting performance benefit to using a thicker fluid. A thicker transmission fluid may actually make gear selection slightly more difficult.

How Does 75W-140 Viscosity Compare To Other Transmission Oil Options?

Here are the viscosity numbers for AMSOIL V-Twin 20W-50, V-Twin Synthetic Transmission Fluid and Severe Gear Synthetic 75W-140. The oil viscosity is measured in centistokes (cST) at 100°C.

  • V-Twin 20W-50- 18.5 cST
  • V-Twin Transmission (SAE 110)- 20.7 cST
  • Severe Gear 75W-140- 27.2 cST

Note that different scales are used to measure the viscosity of motor oils and gear oils. That’s why the 20W-50 motorcycle oil’s viscosity is so close to that of the the SAE 110 transmission fluid.

Also note that the 75W-140 is a whopping 47% thicker than the commonly used 20W-50 and 31% thicker than the (SAE 110) V-Twin Transmission Fluid.

In conclusion, 75W-140 can certainly be used in Harley-Davidson transmissions. We’re not sure that the quieter operation is worth the hotter operating temps and (arguably) stiffer shifting.

June 1, 2020/by Marc Roden

How Often Should CVT Fluid Be Changed?

Tech Discussion

The oil change interval for CVT transmissions varies for each automaker. Below is a list of car brands and models along with the suggested CVT fluid change schedule.

CVT fluid certainly wears out over time. It should be changed much sooner than automatic or manual transmission oil. CVT fluid has to be in acceptable condition to protect against metal-to-metal contact. It also has to provide the correct frictional properties. Once the CVT fluid has broken down, poor performance and accelerated wear can start.

CVT transmissions are very expensive to replace. Being mindful of regular CVT fluid changes will pay off in the long run.

In fact, changing fluid a bit earlier than the recommended interval is prudent for most motorists. This will help provide consistent operation and improved transmission longevity. If you intend to keep your car for a long time, it’s a good idea to schedule regular CVT fluid changes.

List Of Cars And Their CVT Fluid Change Interval

Note that the recommendations below apply to models with CVT-type transmissions only. 

Chevrolet- Malibu, Spark- 45,000 miles (72,000 km)

Honda- Accord, Civic, CR-V, HR-V- 25,000 miles (40,000 km)

Hyundai- Elantra- 60,000 miles (96,000 km)

Infiniti- JX35, QX60- 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 36 months, whichever comes first.

Kia- Soul, Forte, Rio- 60,000 miles (96,000 km)

Mitsubishi- Lancer, Mirage, Outlander, Eclipse Cross- 30,000 miles (48,000 km)

Nissan- Cube, Altima, Juke, Maxima, Micra, Murano, Pathfinder, Qashqai, Rogue, Sentra, X-Trail, Versa- 60,000 miles (96,000 km) /Severe service 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months, whichever comes first.

Subaru- Forester, Impreza, Legacy, Outback, XV Crosstrek, WRX- 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years whichever comes first.

Toyota- Corolla- 60,000 miles (96,000 km)

What Is Severe Service For CVT Transmissions?

Some vehicles are used in conditions that could be defined as “severe service”. In those cases, consider changing the CVT fluid at half of the interval suggested by the car manufacturer.
Regular operation in the conditions shown below would be defined severe service.

  • Steep climbing
  • Operating in heavy mud or snow
  • Off-road use
  • Carrying heavy loads
  • Towing
  • Operating in a very hot climate

Why Should CVT Oil Be Changed?

CVT fluid is bombarded by extreme heat and shearing forces during its service life. Over time, the viscosity breaks down, the frictional properties decline and deposits may develop.

We have been told by customers that “shuddering” during deceleration and has been eliminated by fluid changes.

Why Use A Synthetic CVT Fluid?

AMSOIL Synthetic CVT Fluid A synthetic CVT fluid should be used because it is highly resistant to the damaging effects of extreme heat. Many CVT designs are susceptible to damage from heat. Using a fluid that is able to withstand heat only makes sense.

When choosing a replacement CVT fluid, make sure to use only products that meet the specification suggested by your owner’s manual.

We offer AMSOIL Synthetic CVT Fluid. It is truly an elite product and a considerable upgrade over original equipment CVT Fluids. It is also available at a price that is often lower than the CVT fluid found at your car dealership.

AMSOIL CVT Fluid is compatible with numerous popular industry specifications. We have received fantastic customer feedback on its performance capabilities. AMSOIL CVT Fluid resists transmission slippage, is very resistant to extreme heat. It meets most all of the original equipment CVT fluid standards. See the product page link for complete details.

Contact us using the form on this page for pricing and questions.

 

May 16, 2020/by Marc Roden
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