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Archive for category: Tech Discussion

How To Flush A Motorcycle’s Wet-Clutch After Using Car Motor Oil

Tech Discussion

A reader asks: I recently changed oil in my motorcycle and mistakenly used car engine oil. I knew there was something wrong when the clutch started slipping early into rides. Is there a flush that can be used to get all of the automotive oil residue out of the clutch? Can this clutch be salvaged?

Our answer: As the reader has learned, it is a massive no-no to use oil designed for automotive engines in motorcycle or ATV engines/transmissions that have a wet-clutch. The friction modifiers in car engine oil cause the clutch plates to slip and eventually glaze. Once the clutch plates are severely glazed, the clutch will slip regularly and will have to be replaced.

Do not use chemical engine flush products in an attempt to remove the friction modifier from the clutch plates. This can do more harm than good to your clutch.

A better option is to change to a motorcycle-specific oil (which will not contain friction modifiers). Run at low loads for an hour or two and then change the oil again. Run this batch for another hour. Then put the engine under moderate load to determine if the clutch slips. If it does not slip, the clutch may be fine. If the clutch does slip, then you will have to change the clutch plates.

We’ve heard of a few cases where clutches have been salvaged after short intervals of wrongly using automotive engine oil. Assuming that the clutch plates are not badly glazed, the method of flushing with a motorcycle oil may be worth a try. However, there are no guarantees that the clutch can be saved.

Why Is Car Engine Oil Bad For Motorcycle Clutches?

Friction modifiers are included in automotive engine oil formulas to reduce friction and improve fuel economy. However, these friction modifier ingredients cause motorcycle wet-clutch plates to slip and ultimately fail.

Both conventional and synthetic car motor oils are equally bad for motorcycle transmission use.

Do Synthetic Motorcycle Oils Cause Clutch Slippage?

Neither synthetic or conventional motorcycle oils employ friction modifiers. Therefore, they are safe for wet-clutches. Despite synthetic motorcycle oils having the attribute of reducing friction, they do have the correct frictional properties for wet-clutches. In fact, synthetic motorcycle oil is arguably better for clutches as it can reduce operating temperatures.

June 20, 2023/by Marc Roden

Is High-Zinc Motor Oil Bad For Oxygen Sensors?

Tech Discussion

AMSOIL Z-ROD 20W-50 Synthetic Motor OilA reader asks: I am restoring a 1974 Triumph TR6 with the 2.5-liter engine. The engine is being completely rebuilt. Most importantly, I’m upgrading to full electronic sequential fuel injection and electronic ignition. This means that there will be O2 lambda sensors on the exhaust. Does this mean that I can’t use a motor oil with high zinc? There will no catalytic converters in place.

Our answer: Your classic Triumph engine would still be best protected by a motor oil with high-zinc (also called ZDDP) content. Motor oil with high-zinc and phosphorus ingredients pose no risk to oxygen sensors. So, there is plenty of upside for valvetrain protection, but no downside in terms of O2 sensor compatibility.

Even if your car had catalytic converters, the risk of problems from your engine oil’s zinc ingredients would be could be relatively low.

Our best motor oil option is AMSOIL Z-ROD Synthetic Motor Oil Series. Z-ROD contains 1440 ppm of zinc and 1320 ppm of phosphorus. Therefore, it delivers the best possible protection for either flat tappet cams or roller cams in classic engines. Not only does Z-ROD deliver the best possible wear protection in vintage engines, it also offers world-class rust and corrosion protection. Therefore, it’s also delivering protection during extended storage periods.

The Z-ROD Series was designed from the ground up for classic cars and street rods. It is available in 10W-30, 10W-40 or 20W-50.

Where To Buy AMSOIL Z-ROD Motor Oil For Classic Cars?

Oildepot can offer AMSOIL Z-ROD Motor Oil to classic car enthusiasts at wholesale prices. Contact us for a wholesale price list using the form on this page or call us at 1-800-748-5781.

May 6, 2023/by Marc Roden

K&N Versus AMSOIL Oil Filters

Tech Discussion

Let’s compare the features offered by both AMSOIL and K&N automotive and motorcycle oil filters.

When comparing oil filters, there are a couple of factors to consider. How well are they built? More importantly, how well does an oil filter remove contaminants?

Note that we do sell AMSOIL automotive and motorcycle oil filters. Let’s put biases aside and look at the facts.

About K&N Oil Filters

K&N Oil Filters are well-built and well thought-out. They have high-end components such as heavy-gauge canisters, silicone anti-drain-back valves and Viton or nitrile gaskets.

We have to give K&N full-credit for the nut that they weld at the top of their spin-on filters. This allows for the use of a box-end wrench to remove the filter. This ingenious feature alone likely accounts for a solid portion of their popularity (and rightfully so).

K&N automotive and motorcycle oil filters use what they call a “partial synthetic” filter media. They describe this as a “resin-impregnated cellulose filter media”.

About AMSOIL Oil Filters

AMSOIL Oil Filters also boast many premium features (sans the nut). Their oil filters include heavy-duty cannisters, nitrile gaskets, silicone anti-drain-back valves, wire-backed media and stamped end-caps.

AMSOIL oil filters for automotive applications have a gripper coating (for improved installation grip).

Most importantly, AMSOIL Oil Filters contain a full-synthetic filter media.

Efficiency Ratings Of K&N And AMSOIL Oil Filters

As mentioned, AMSOIL uses a full-synthetic oil filter media, while K&N uses a partial-synthetic media. How do they compare in terms of actual filtering ability?

AMSOIL claims an absolute efficiency rating 98.7% at 20 microns for their automotive and motorcycle oil filters.

K&N’s technical department tells us that their automotive and motorcycle oil filters have an absolute efficiency rating of 98.7% at 30 microns.

In other words, AMSOIL’s full-synthetic media stops much smaller particles.

Service Intervals

Refer to the filter product box for final determination on service interval.

  • Larger AMSOIL models for auto/light truck (EAO models) have a service interval of up to 25,000 miles (40,000 KM) or one year (whichever comes first).
  • Smaller AMSOIL filters for auto/light-truck (EA15K models) should be changed at 15,000 miles (24,000 KM) or one year (whichever comes first).
  • AMSOIL motorcycle/powersports oil filters can stay in service for up to twice the OEM drain interval (when used with AMSOIL Synthetic Motorcycle Oil). When used with other brands of motorcycle oil, change filter at the interval prescribed by the owner’s manual.
  • Some larger K&N automotive/light-truck oil filters have an oil change interval of up to 20,000 miles (31,000 KM).
  • Most smaller K&N oil filters for automotive/light-truck applications are to be changed at the OEM service interval.
  • K&N motorcycle/powersports oil filters should be changed at the OEM service interval.

Conclusion

Both of AMSOIL and K&N offer quality-built engine oil filters. AMSOIL’s oil filters certainly offer much stronger absolute efficiency numbers.

February 20, 2023/by Marc Roden

Replacement For Yamaha Yamalube Shaft Drive Oil?

Tech Discussion

AMSOIL Severe Gear Synthetic 75W-90 Gear Oil A reader asks: Do you carry a replacement for Yamalube Shaft Drive Oil Exclusive (part number: ACC-SHFTD-EX-00) for the final drive on my 2016 Yamaha FJR1300A motorcycle?

Our answer: Yes indeed. AMSOIL Severe Gear Synthetic 75W-90 Gear Oil is a full-synthetic replacement for the Yamalube Shaft Drive Oil.

The Yamalube product is a conventional (or mineral) oil, whereas AMSOIL Severe Gear is 100% synthetic. We submit that this makes the AMSOIL product a significant upgrade for motorcycle shaft drive systems.

Benefits Of AMSOIL Severe Gear In Shaft Drive Motorcycles

  • High-resistance to extreme heat
  • Lowers operating temperatures
  • Provides long service life
  • Reduces friction for optimum efficiency
  • Delivers extreme wear protection
  • Protects against leaks, keeps seals supple
  • Contains robust anti-rust/corrosion ingredients
  • A cost-effective upgrade

What Are The Advantages Of Synthetic Oil In Motorcycle Final Drives?

The lubricant used in the final drives of shaft drive motorcycles plays a significant role in terms of performance, efficiency and dependability. A good synthetic gear oil will reduce friction, improve efficiency and provide cooler operation. Synthetic oil out-performs conventional oil in every conceivable category.

Other Products For Yamaha Motorcycles

If you are optimizing the performance of your motorcycle’s final drive, don’t forget about the engine and transmission. AMSOIL’s 100% synthetic Metric 10W-30 or 10W-40 offer a significant operational upgrade. Expect smoother shifting, improved throttle response, cooler operation and ironclad wear protection.

January 14, 2023/by Marc Roden

AMSOIL Metric Vs Dirt Bike Motorcycle Oils

Tech Discussion

AMSOIL Metric Synthetic 10W-40 Motorcycle Oil A reader asks: My Suzuki V-Strom 650 asks for 10W-40 oil. My motorcycle is used for street, touring and light adventure riding. Some V-Strom owners run the AMSOIL Dirt Bike 10W-40 in this model, while others run the Metric 10W-40. What is the difference between the two and what is the best choice  for my motorcycle?

Our answer: Both the AMSOIL Metric Synthetic 10W-40 and AMSOIL Dirt Bike Synthetic 10W-40 offer world-class protection, performance and smooth shifting. However, there are some very important distinctions between the two. Let’s take a look.

Service Life

The Metric 10W-40 has a longer service life than the Dirt Bike 10W-40. The Metric 10W-40 product was designed to stay in service for up to two times the OEM-suggested drain interval or one year (whichever comes first). AMSOIL “overbuilt” this product so that it could withstand big touring miles.

The Dirt Bike 10W-40 is designed to go the full service interval as suggested by the motorcycle manufacturer. Unlike the Metric Oil, it is not designed for extended drain intervals. The reason being is that the oil is changed more frequently in motocross and dirt bike applications. However, the Dirt Bike Oil can certainly stay in service for the entire service interval as suggested by your owner’s manual. This does not imply that the Dirt Bike product is “underbuilt”. It designed to withstand the severe thrashing delved out by dirt bike engines and transmissions.

Clutch Operation

Discerning riders may notice subtle clutch engagement differences between these two products. AMSOIL Dirt Bike 10W-40 is designed to deliver slightly more aggressive clutch engagement. The reason being is that motocross bikes require instant clutch engagement during race starts and in tight off-road situations. The Metric Oil is designed to deliver smoother clutch engagement which would be more desirable on the street.

It is important to note that both of these synthetic motorcycle oils are 100% wet-clutch compatible. As they both promote cooler operation, longer clutch plate life can be expected. There is no risk of clutch slippage when switching from a conventional motorcycle oil to one of these AMSOIL Synthetic Motorcycle Oils.

It should also be noted that AMSOIL Synthetic Motorcycle Oils have a reputation for optimizing shifting smoothness. They can also ease shifting into neutral.

Engine Protection

Both products have been torture-tested in professional racing and on the test bench. The AMSOIL Metric and Dirt Bike 10W-40 oils offer world-class engine and transmission protection. There is no wrong answer between them in this category.

Corrosion Protection

Both the Metric and Dirt Bike Oils contain rust and corrosion inhibiters. However, as the Metric 10W-40 product is designed for longer service intervals, it is a bit more robust on this front.

The total base number of each oil gives us a hint regarding corrosion fighting ability. Total base number (or TBN) is a motor oil’s capacity to withstand acidity. The higher the total base number, the greater the capacity to battle acids. The Metric 10W-40 has a very high TBN of 11.6. Dirt Bike 10W-40 has a respectable TBN of 7.6.

While TBN doesn’t tell the entire story regarding corrosion resistance, it does give us a good indication. Again, as the Metric 10W-40 is designed for ultra-long service intervals, a high TBN is a great asset.

Meanwhile, the Dirt Bike Oil is designed to provide wear control in the dirt bikes and motocross bikes that are routinely pushed to the very limit. However, the drain intervals are generally not that long. Therefore, having an ultra-high TBN is redundant and not a requirement in dirt bike applications.

Conclusion

Both the AMSOIL Dirt Bike and Metric oils will work exceptionally well. However, based on the street/touring/adventure usage, Metric 10W-40 gets the edge. The longer service life is a better fit for bigger miles. The smoother clutch actuation may also be a plus in stop and go traffic.

November 18, 2022/by Marc Roden

Can API GL-4 Transmission Oil Replace GL-3 Oil?

Tech Discussion

AMSOIL Synthetic 75W-90 Manual Transmission & Transaxle Gear Oil A reader asks: I’m looking for an API GL-3 manual transmission oil for my 2006 Pontiac Solstice. GL-4 transmission oil is widely available, but I can’t find GL-3 oil anywhere. Do you have an oil that will work?

Our answer: Yes, we do have a product that is safe for manual transmissions requiring an API GL-3 fluid. AMSOIL Synthetic Manual Transmission and Transaxle Gear Oil is rated as an API GL-4 oil. However, this product is safe and appropriate for use in manual transmissions requiring an API GL-2 or GL-3 oil.

It is important to note that all transmission oils meeting the API GL-4 specification are safe for applications requiring a GL-3 oil.

What Is The Difference Between GL-3 And GL-4 Transmission Oil?

Transmission oils carrying the API GL-4 specification offer more extreme pressure wear protection compared to the requirements of the GL-3 specification. However, GL-4 oils are still safe for yellow metals such as brass synchros.

How Is the GL-4 Synthetic Manual Transmission and Transaxle Gear Oil Safe For GL-3 Applications?

A main concern with choosing an oil for manual transmissions requiring a GL-3 gear oil is its compatibility with yellow metals. For example, copper, bronze and brass are categorized as yellow metals.

Products like AMSOIL Synthetic Manual Transmission and Transaxle Gear Oil are suitable for GL-3 applications because its additive chemistry is very stable at high temperatures. Extreme pressure additives have to be utilized correctly so that they offer protection without causing yellow metal corrosion. The AMSOIL product’s sophisticated formula delivers both exceptional wear control and yellow metal preservation.

Why Doesn’t AMSOIL Include “API GL-3” On The Synthetic Manual Transmission and Transaxle Gear Oil Label?

AMSOIL does not list the API GL-2 or GL-3 specification of the data sheet or label of the Synthetic Manual Transmission and Transaxle Gear Oil product because these are long-obsolete industry specifications.

Where To Buy Synthetic Manual Transmission And Transaxle Gear Oil For API GL-4 And GL-3?

Oildepot can offer AMSOIL Synthetic Manual Transmission and Transaxle Gear Oil at great prices in both the United States and Canada. Contact us using the price list request form on this page.

October 21, 2022/by Marc Roden

How To Choose Wheel Bearing Grease With High Temp Protection

Tech Discussion

A reader asks: I have to replace the front wheel bearings on my SUV. Naturally, I would like to protect the wheel bearings as much as possible. Looking at AMSOIL Synthetic Multi-Purpose Grease and AMSOIL Dominator Synthetic Racing Grease. Which grease would protect better against high heat in these hubs?

Our answer: Either AMSOIL grease product will easily withstand the temperatures that automotive wheel bearings generate.

However, the Dominator Grease does offer higher heat resistance. This is quantified in the ASTM D-3527 test. In this test, grease is run in a hub/spindle assembly at 1000 RPM at a temperature of 160°C for 20 hours on and four hours off. The test ends once too much resistance is created. Elevated resistance implies that the grease is failing.

AMSOIL Synthetic Multi-Purpose Grease had a test lifespan of 120 hours. The Dominator Racing Grease had a test lifespan of 220 hours.

Again, either will easily handle long-term wheel bearing service. However, Dominator Racing Grease is superior in terms of severe heat resistance.

About AMSOIL Synthetic Multi-Purpose Grease

AMSOIL’s Synthetic Multi-Purpose Grease is a highly versatile product that is ideal for general chassis and wheel bearing service. It boasts exceptional all-temperature performance and strong water resistance. A superb choice for automotive and commercial-use at a reasonable price.

About AMSOIL Dominator Synthetic Racing Grease

The Dominator Synthetic Racing Grease is an ultra-high-performance grease that can also do it all. Dominator Racing Grease’s hallmark is the aforementioned resistance to extreme heat. It was formulated for high-speed, high-temperature operation. It is also appropriate for general chassis and wheel bearing use. Other notable attributes include exceptional water resistance and great winter performance.

We can offer AMSOIL Synthetic Grease at wholesale prices in the United States and Canada. Request a price list using the contact form on this page or call us at 1-800-748-5781. 

August 19, 2022/by Marc Roden

Choosing Motor Oil For An Antique Car Engine

Tech Discussion

A reader asks: What factors should be considered when choosing a motor oil for an antique car such as the Ford Model A?

Our answer: When it comes to choosing motor oil for vintage cars like the Ford Model A (built between 1927 and 1931), there are a few factors to consider. Today’s latest motor oils are designed to be compatible with modern emission components. Some traditional motor oil ingredients have been reduced in order to maintain compatibility with emissions equipment. As vintage engines obviously do not have today’s emissions equipment, motor oils meeting the very latest industry specifications may not be the best choice.

First and foremost, these antique engines tend to have flat tappet camshafts. Flat tappet cams require a motor oil with high ZDDP (zinc dialkyldithiophosphates) content. We will also refer to this as simply “zinc” for short. Motor oil without adequate levels of ZDDP can promote accelerated flat tappet cam wear. Modern motor oils contain about half of the ZDDP levels of motor oils from 25 years ago.

The second factor to consider is that vintage engines may have looser tolerances. Therefore, choosing a motor oil with adequate viscosity is required.

Third, antique vehicles tend not to be daily drivers. As they may only run a few times per month, choosing a motor oil with a robust anti-rust and corrosion package is sound insurance.

What About Adding A Zinc Additive To Regular Motor Oil?

Simply adding a ZDDP additive to any motor oil off the shelf may seem like a practical option on paper. But there is more to the story.

Motor oil makers spend millions of dollars formulating a motor oil product. Finding the correct balance of base oils and additive ingredients requires thousands of hours of lab and field tests.

This balance can be disrupted by adding an aftermarket oil additive. It may actually detract from the motor oil’s overall abilities. Zinc is simply one part of the equation. Adding an ZDDP additive to attain 2500 ppm of zinc may actually not be as effective as a properly formulated motor oil that has 1400 ppm.

Using an aftermarket additive is pouring an unknown factor into a carefully formulated and balanced formula.

Is Non-Detergent Oil Necessary For Vintage Engines?

There are two distinct lines of reasoning regarding the use of non-detergent motor oils in antique engines.

First, as only non-detergent engine oils were available when these cars were produced, the belief is that it is prudent to carry on with non-detergent oils. We disagree with this theory. Capable motor oil detergents and dispersants can keep engines internals clean and hold contaminants in suspension. Preventing the formation of varnish and sludge is a plus in any mechanically sound engine.

The second motivation for choosing a non-detergent oil is the concern that motor oil detergents could dislodge contaminants in engines with severe sludge. This may be a valid concern in engines that are in poor repair or that have been neglected. However, for most any mechanically sound engine, motor oil containing detergents is nothing but an asset.

Is Straight-Grade Oil A Must For Older Engines?

Should multi-grade motor oil be avoided in antique engines? Several decades ago, there may have been a valid reason for sticking with straight-grade oils. That is definitely no longer the case today.

The theoretical knock on multi-grade oils is that they may contain an ingredient called “viscosity index improvers” (VII). These VII additives are polymers that expand as the oil temperature rises. VII ingredients keep the oil from thinning out excessively at hot operating temperatures. VII additives perform only this task and add nothing else in terms of lubrication or protection. More VII additives may be used in multi-grade oils that have a long stretch from the winter weight such as a 0W-30 or 5W-40.

In the early days of multi-grade oils, the issue with viscosity index improvers is that they eventually break down. This would potentially lower the viscosity of the oil over time and possibly promote the formation of engine deposits. The chemistry has improved dramatically the decades, so that this a non-issue now.

Less VI improvers are used in synthetic multi-grade motor oils. Synthetics inherently have a linear viscosity across the temperature spectrum. There are also other factors to consider such as the quality of the VII additives and the overall competence of the oil formulation itself.

The good news is that high-quality multi-grade motor oil technology now offers the very best of both worlds. They provide both exceptional cold-start oil flow and steadfast shear stability at high operating temperatures over long intervals.

Are Any Of the “Newer” Formula Motor Oils Suitable For Antique Engines?

Using modern passenger car motor oils that meet the very latest industry specifications will not be a disaster in the short-term. But do keep in mind that motor oils meeting the latest industry specifications will have roughly half the zinc content of motor oils from yesteryear.

That does not mean that these oils are completely neutered of anti-wear additives. They employ modern base oils and ashless additive technology which performs exceptionally well in today’s cars and trucks.

In our opinion, using a motor oil containing at least 1000 ppm of ZDDP will provide a reliable and effective anti-wear barrier in classic engine valve-trains. There are motor oils on the market that are designed for older vehicles and are not constrained by the latest industry specs.

It should also be noted that the latest diesel engine oils (meeting the  API CJ-4 or CK-4 spec) also have lower zinc levels. Diesel engine oils holding the API CI-4+ specification (for pre-2007 models) may contain adequate zinc levels.

Are Synthetic Oils Safe In Antique Engines?

Synthetic motor oils can safely be used in any mechanically-sound vintage engine. By mechanically-sound, we mean no significant leaks or massive internal sludge issues. Synthetic oils are compatible with all seal and gasket materials. In fact, synthetic oil can preserve seals and keep them supple. Synthetic oil will not cause or exacerbate leaks in older engines. Today’s synthetic oils are also compatible with the remnants of any conventional oil that may be left in the crankcase when switching to synthetic from mineral oil.

Our Best Motor Oil Solution For Vintage Engines

We are highly partial toward a motor oil series in our product line. It ticks all the boxes for the protection and operation of vintage engines. This product is AMSOIL Z-ROD Series. It is available in 10W-30, 10W-40 and 20W-50. Here are the features and benefits.

  • Contains 1440 ppm of zinc and 1320 ppm of phosphorus for steadfast flat tappet cam wear protection.
  • Has powerful anti-rust and corrosion inhibitors for extended storage protection.
  • Withstands extreme heat. Provides exemptional viscosity stability.
  • Provides instant cold-start oil flow.
  • Protects against the formation of varnish and sludge.
  • Maximizes performance by fighting friction.
  • Compatible with all gasket and seal materials.

Questions? Feel free to contact us using the form on this page or call us at 1-800-748-5781.

August 11, 2022/by Marc Roden

Ram EcoDiesel Motor Oil Information For Gen 2 And 3 Engines

Tech Discussion

Engine oil recommendations have been something of a moving target for Ram EcoDiesel owners. Here are the latest motor oil specifications for each model year. We also include high-quality AMSOIL synthetic motor oil options for EcoDiesel models.

2014-2019 EcoDiesel (Generation 2 Engine)

It took trial and error to sort out the motor oil requirements for the Gen 2 EcoDiesel engine. For the inaugural 2014 model year, a 5W-30 meeting the Chrysler MS-11106 specification was initially (and mistakenly) suggested. This motor oil spec was a low-SAPS (sulfated ash, phosphorus, sulfur) European car formula. This original motor oil choice turned out to be a miscalculation for Chrysler. Main bearing failures started cropping up and this was attributed to the light European 5W-30 spec.

By the summer of 2016, Chrysler switched the EcoDiesel to heavy-duty diesel 5W-40 meeting the MS-10902 and API CJ-4 (and later CK-4) specs. In other words, the same motor oil types as suggested for the 6.7L Cummins in the 2500 and 3500 trucks. This spec change applied to all models from 2014-forward. Chrysler stuck with this oil spec through the 2019 model year.

AMSOIL has two 5W-40 motor oil options meeting the MS-10902 specification for the Gen 2 EcoDiesel engine.

Ultra-premium– “DEO” AMSOIL Signature Series Max-Duty Synthetic Diesel 5W-40
Commercial-grade– “ADO” AMSOIL Heavy-Duty Synthetic Diesel 5W-40

2020-2021 EcoDiesel (Generation 3 Engine)

With the introduction of the Generation 3 EcoDiesel engine in 2020, a different motor oil specification was suggested. This was the Chrysler MS-12991 specification. This spec tends to apply to Full-SAPS European 5W-40 motor oils. However, some might be surprised by the fact that the MS-12991 spec was not new. This specification was created for Fiat gasoline engines several years ago.

AMSOIL’s MS-12991 offering is “EFM” AMSOIL SAE 5W-40 FS Synthetic European Motor Oil. Now, there is an asterisk next to this recommendation. In house, AMSOIL has deemed the FS European 5W-40 as carrying the MS-12991 spec since 2013. AMSOIL suggests this product for 2020-21 EcoDiesel models in their online application guide. However, this spec is not listed on the bottle label or in the product data sheet.

The reason being is that the ash content is just a few PPM off of the MS-12991 spec limit. We are talking a few “parts-per-million”. In other words, this number is so close that it’s barely measurable. Therefore, AMSOIL feels supremely comfortable recommending and warranting their FS European 5W-40 for 2020-21 Gen 3 EcoDiesel motors.

We hope that AMSOIL will tweak this formula in order to add MS-12991 to the label. Why hasn’t this happened sooner? We wonder if tuning the ash content will disrupt a Mercedes or BMW spec also carried by this product? We can tell you that the AMSOIL FS European 5W-40 can be used with confidence in ’20-’21 EcoDiesel engines. After 20 years of dealing with this company, we are very confident in this recommendation. If AMSOIL decides that a product does not meet a particular industry specification, they simply will not recommend it.  They do not suggest a product that “might” work.

2022 And Newer

For the 2022 model year, Chrysler required 5W-40 motor oil that met both API SP and MS-12991 specs. API SP is a passenger car/gasoline engine motor oil standard. It is not not clear as to why the API SP has been added.

AMSOIL does not offer a product that carries both the API SP and MS-12991 specifications.

About The EcoDiesel Engine

This 3.0L diesel engine was designed by an Italian diesel engine maker called VM Motori. A little-known fact is that General Motors once owned half of VM Motori (2007-2013). The earliest iterations of this 3.0L engine were actually intended for a Cadillac model in the European market. GM’s 2009 bankruptcy ended this project and they eventually sold their stake in VM Motori. Fiat ultimately bought up VM Motori. By 2011, Fiat took controlling interest in Chrysler. This created a clear path for the eventual “Gen 2” EcoDiesel motor to make its way into RAM 1500 and Jeep Grand Cherokee models.

Where To Buy Motor Oil For EcoDiesel Engines?

Oildepot can offer elite AMSOIL synthetic motor oil options for EcoDiesel engines at wholesale prices. Contact us using the form on this page or call us at 1-800-748-5781.

July 14, 2022/by Marc Roden

Replacement For AMSOIL Scooter Oil?

Tech Discussion

AMSOIL Metric Synthetic 10W-40 Motorcycle Oil A reader asks: I’ve got a Vespa 946 scooter that requires a 10W-40 oil. Apparently AMSOIL Formula 4-Stroke Synthetic Scooter Oil is not imported into Canada. What is a good alternative for my scooter?

Our answer: We can offer a superb substitute for the Formula 4-Stroke Scooter Oil. AMSOIL Metric 10W-40 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil offers very similar properties to the dedicated Scooter Oil.

Metric 10W-40 has almost identical viscosity as the Formula 4-Stroke Oil (both are 10W-40). Both also meet the same industry specifications. The Metric Motorcycle Oil is suitable for air- or liquid-cooled 4-stroke engines. It is wet-clutch combatable. Therefore, it suitable for all motorcycle engine/transmission combinations requiring 10W-40 oil.

What Is the Difference Between AMSOIL Scooter Oil And Metric Motorcycle Oil?

The main difference between Metric 10W-40 and Formula 4-Stroke Synthetic Scooter Oil is the service life. AMSOIL suggests that the Scooter Oil be changed at the interval suggested by the owner’s manual. Meanwhile, the Metric 10W-40 has a service life of up to two times the suggested service interval or one year (whichever comes first). This implies that the Metric formula is more robust than the Scooter oil.

Features And Benefits Of AMSOIL Metric 10W-40 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil

  • Provides cool operation and reduced friction
  • Delivers world-class wear control
  • Powerful formula offers long service life
  • Offers off-season internal corrosion/rust protection

Conclusion

AMSOIL Metric 10W-40 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil  is most certainly appropriate for scooter engines. Metric 10W-40 will deliver outstanding protection and performance in scooter applications.

April 9, 2022/by Marc Roden
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Fast shipping from 2 warehouses in Canada and 11 in the USA.


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Wholesale buying programs for individuals, retailers and commercial/industrial customers.


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Customer service is our #1 priority. We are a Better Business Bureau member with an A+ rating.


EXPERIENCE

We have been an AMSOIL dealer and distributor since 2001, so we have the know-how to deliver expert product support.

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Canada & US

Oil Depot Accredited Business of the Better Business Bureau

Marc Roden
Independent Dealer

1-800-748-5781
[email protected]

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