Archive for category: Tech Discussion

How To Find Type A Automatic Transmission Fluid

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AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF

AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF Covers The Type A Spec

A reader asks: Does AMSOIL have a Type A ATF? I’ve got an older vehicle that requires a Type A automatic transmission fluid.

Our answer: We have two products that meet the Type “A” ATF specification. They are:

Type A ATF History And Compatibility

The Type A automatic transmission specification was created by General Motors in the late 1940’s.

Type A ATF was used in the automatic transmissions of every car maker on the market from 1949 to 1958. After that, other auto makers started to offer their own ATF specifications.

The “Type A, Suffix A” specification replaced Type “A” in the late 1950’s. Dexron “B” fluid later replaced Type A, Suffix A.

All iterations of Dexron B, Dexron II and Dexron III ATF products are backward compatible with Type A and Type A , Suffix A fluids.

Newer General Motors specs such as DEXRON VI, DEXRON HP and DEXRON ULV are NOT backward compatible with applications requiring a Type A ATF.

To sum up, to find a Type A ATF, simply look for an ATF that is compatible with the Dexron III specification. Dexron III ATF was specified  for General Motors vehicles until 2006. Therefore, it is commonly available. While the label may not list the old Type A spec, note that GM states that Dexron III is a suitable replacement for Type A.

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Can AMSOIL Engine/Transmission Flush Be Used In CVT Transmissions?

A reader asks: Can AMSOIL Engine & Transmission Flush be used in CVT transmissions? I’ve got a 2017 Nissan Altima. Wondering if this product will give my transmission a thorough cleaning?

Our answer: The short answer is no. AMSOIL Engine & Transmission Flush is NOT compatible with CVT transmissions (also known as “continuously variable transmissions”). This flush product is suitable for regular automatic transmissions and engines only.

CVT transmissions have very little in common with traditional automatic transmissions. This flush product is not compatible with the inners workings found in a CVT unit.

How To Prevent Deposits In A CVT Transmission

AMSOIL Synthetic CVT Fluid The first way to keep your CVT transmission clean and operating smoothly is to change the fluid on a regular basis. CVT oil needs to be changed more often than many would guess. See our article When To Change CVT Fluid In Your Brand Of Vehicle.

The second way to prevent deposits in CVT units is to use a good synthetic CVT oil. AMSOIL Synthetic CVT Fluid is highly resistant to fluid breakdown and extreme heat. This prevents the conditions that cause deposit formation in the first place.

In conclusion, changing your CVT fluid on a regular basis will prevent expensive repairs in the future. Using a good synthetic CVT fluid will protect against wear and deposits. It will also maintain consistent transmission performance.

We can sell AMSOIL Synthetic CVT Fluid at wholesale prices in Canada and the US. Contact us for a price list using the form on this page.

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Can You Switch To Synthetic Oil In An Older Harley-Davidson Motorcycle?

AMSOIL V-Twin Synthetic 20W-50 A reader asks: I bought a used 1998 Heritage Softail Classic with 47,000 miles. As far as I know, only mineral oil was used in this bike. I’ve heard good things about using AMSOIL Synthetic 20W-50. Is there any problem with switching to synthetic oil in an older engine? Will it leak or use oil?

Our answer: It is certainly acceptable to switch to synthetic oil in an older Harley-Davidson engine. If the engine is mechanically sound, there should not be any problems. Synthetic oil can be used in older transmissions and primary chaincases as well.

Despite its age, your engine is not “adapted” to only conventional oil. It does not matter if the engine was broken-in using mineral oil. The switch to synthetic oil can take place at any time.

Once converted to synthetic oil, the motorcycle will now have improved performance on a number of fronts. AMSOIL V-Twin 20W-50 lowers friction and withstands extreme heat. Here are the improvements that our customers observe.

  • Lower operating temperatures
  • Improved throttle response
  • Increased gas mileage
  • Lower volatility which fights oil consumption
  • Smoother shifting when used in the transmission
  • Easier to find neutral when used in the primary

Will synthetic oil cause leaks or consumption in an older motorcycle engine? If the seals are sound and the engine has not had serious oil consumption problems, all should be just fine. AMSOIL V-Twin 20-W-50 has a greater resistance to volatility over regular motorcycle oil. This means less oil usage on very hot days.

In conclusion, switching to a top-tier synthetic oil like AMSOIL is the most cost-effective upgrade you can perform on your Harley-Davidson motorcycle. This is true of brand-new models or older bikes.

Here is our list of articles about Harley-Davidson Motorcycles And Synthetic Oil

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Can You Mix 2-Stroke Injector Oil Brands Or Types?

A reader asks: I’m currently running Polaris Blue 2-Stroke Oil in my snowmobile. Looking at switching to AMSOIL Synthetic Injector Oil. As Polaris Blue is a mineral oil and the AMSOIL is a synthetic oil, do I have to completely empty the oil tank? Would there be any problems with mixing these oils?

Our answer: All types of two-stroke injector oils can be mixed. There will not be any compatibility issues. All brands of synthetic, semi-synthetic and conventional 2-cycle oils are compatible.

Does A 2-Stroke Oil Injector Tank Need To Be Emptied When Switching Brands?

You do not have to complete empty your injector oil reservoir when switching oil types or brands. Simply run the oil level down to a safe point and pour the new oil on top.

While all two-stroke oils are compatible, they are not created equal. High-quality synthetic 2-stroke injector oils will create less exhaust smoke, offer improved performance, improved wear control and cleaner engine internals.

Therefore, when switching brands, you may note different performance characteristics when the new oil comes on-stream.

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Log Splitter Hydraulic Oil For Winter

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AMSOIL HV Synthetic Hydraulic Oil A reader asks: I use my log-splitter all winter. What is a good synthetic hydraulic oil that would flow well on very cold days? The manual calls for AW ISO 32 hydraulic oil.

Our answer: We have a full-synthetic, anti-wear hydraulic oil that will dramatically improve the winter operation of your log splitter. It will also deliver outstanding summer performance in extreme heat.

AMSOIL HV Synthetic Hydraulic Oil ISO 32 has a cold-pour point of -46°C (-51°F). This is a dramatic upgrade over mineral hydraulic oil. For instance, Mobil DTE 20-Series Hydraulic Oil- ISO 32 has a cold-pour point of just -27°C (-17°F).

This difference is quite significant. AMSOIL Synthetic Hydraulic Oil will deliver a noticeable winter upgrade over regular hydraulic oil. This product would also optimize the performance and wear protection of your splitter’s hydraulic system.

Here are features and benefits of AMSOIL HV Synthetic Hydraulic Oil:

  • Offers consistent performance in winter or summer
  • Delivers low-friction, efficient operation
  • Resists foaming
  • Provides top-notch wear protection

If your splitter takes a different fluid-type, feel free to contact us for an oil recommendation.

In conclusion, hydraulic oil is the lifeblood of your wood splitter. Choosing an oil that is compatible with your climate is vital to proper performance.

We can sell AMSOIL HV Synthetic Hydraulic Oil at wholesale prices in Canada and the US. Contact us for a price list using the form on this page.

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John Deere Zero-Turn Mower Transmission And Engine Oil Options

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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:

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). A 10W-30 motor oil (meeting the suggested diesel specs) can be used at ambient temperatures below 104°F. Motor oil meeting API CD (or higher), ACEA Oil Sequence E3 (or higher) is suggested. Our suggestion is AMSOIL Signature Series Max-Duty Synthetic Diesel Oil, AMSOIL Heavy-Duty Synthetic Diesel Oil or AMSOIL Small Engine Series.

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.

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Do AMSOIL Diesel Fuel Additives Demulsify Or Emulsify?

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. 

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

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

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Oil For Ford Mustang With Getrag 6-Speed Transmission?

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.

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

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.

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