Archive for category: Tech Discussion

Coolant Analysis Kits Available For Sale In Canada

Oildepot.ca now offers engine coolant kits for sale in Canada. The coolant samples are analyzed by a lab in Edmonton. This comprehensive procedure can test ethylene glycol or propylene glycol used in gasoline or diesel engines. This testing is performed at the same lab that conducts the oil analysis service we offer. For those simply wanting to test pH, freeze point and boil point, check out our antifreeze test strips.

What Is The Process?

  • To get a price, contact us using the form on this page. Put “coolant testing” in the “Questions or Comments” area.
  • To place an order, simply call us direct at 1-800-748-5781.
  • The kit would be shipped to you by Loomis Express from Mississauga in the East or Edmonton in the West.
  • Contents of the kit includes a 4 oz. sterile bottle and engine information form.
  • Collect your coolant sample and ship it to the Edmonton lab.
  • Once the sample reaches the lab, expect a result by email in 1-2 business days.

Why Perform Engine Coolant Analysis?

There are two main reasons why coolant analysis can be helpful.

Coolant analysis can be part of a regular maintenance program. The lab result will offer a definitive verdict on whether the coolant is suitable for continued use. This can take the guesswork out of when to change out engine coolant.

This procedure can also determine if an engine or cooling system has an issue. Problems such as a head gasket failure and excessive corrosion or depositing can be determined.

What Is The Sampling Procedure?

  • Run engine up to operating temperature to allow for adequate coolant circulation.
  • Allow engine to cool for twenty minutes before opening rad cap or draining sample.
  • There are two preferable sampling areas. The most representative sample would be found by drawing direct from the radiator using a vampire pump. The second-best option would be draining from the petcock at the bottom of the radiator (if equipped).
  • If using the petcock option, be sure to clean the area beforehand. Allow coolant to drain for a few seconds before grabbing sample. Then top-up the radiator with fresh coolant.
  • The overflow tank is not an ideal location to draw a sample. The overflow tank tends to be a resting place for sediment and deposits.

Coolant Analysis Test Result Data Points

The test result will show the following:

  • Is The Coolant Suitable For Continued Use?
  • Metals (17 types shown)
  • pH levels
  • Glycol % (Ethylene or Propylene)
  • Freeze Point
  • Boil Point
  • Nitrite
  • Supplemental Coolant Additive (SCA) Number
  • Total Dissolved Solids
  • Specific Conductance
  • Total Hardness
  • Visuals (color, oil, fuel, magnetic precipitate,
    non-magnetic precipitate, odor & foam)

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

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Is A Longer Oil Filter Needed For Harley Milwaukee-Eight Engines?

AMSOIL Ea Motorcycle Oil FiltersA reader asks: Did you hear that Harley-Davidson has a new oil filter for Milwaukee-8 engines? Apparently, it’s 1/2” longer than the previous oil filter. Is AMSOIL going to spec a longer oil filter for the Milwaukee-8 engine? Or is it even necessary?

Our answer: AMSOIL is not changing their oil filter recommendations for the Milwaukee-Eight motor. They will continue to offer the EAOM134 (black finish) and EAOM134C (chrome). These are the same filters used for the previous generation of Twin-Cam engines.

Why Did Harley Release A Longer Oil Filter For The Milwaukee-Eight Motor?

Harley-Davidson did not make this change to cure an underlying problem with their previous oil filter. It seems to be simply an effort to optimize engine protection.

Harley only offers one reason in the service bulletin announcing this new oil filter. Quote: “The increased media supports the higher flow rate of MKE-8 engines”. This doesn’t imply that the new oil filter offers more flow. They are simply saying that there is a bit more filter media surface area to accommodate the increased volume of oil flow. The Harley-Davidson bulletin also states that using the previous, shorter oil filter will not void warranty.

A longer oil filter does NOT increase the flow rate. It only increases the capacity. The filter media determines the flow rate, not the oil filter size. For example, the entire line of AMSOIL motorcycle oil filters have the same flow rate, regardless of size.

Larger oil filters tend not to translate into any sort of advantage. Consider the size of an oil filter on the average V-6 car engine. Some aren’t much bigger than a motorcycle oil filter. Yet a capacity issue is all but unheard of.

The bottom line is that the quality of the filter media is the most important factor in oil filter performance.

AMSOIL Oil Filters Are Ideal For The Milwaukee-8 Engine

AMSOIL has determined that the size and capacity of the EAOM134 and EAOM134C is more than appropriate for the Milwaukee-Eight engine.

The vital advantages offered by the AMSOIL Ea synthetic filter media are the filtration efficiency rate and exceptionally long service life. They are made to stay in service as long as AMSOIL V-Twin Synthetic 20W-50. This is 20,000 miles or one year. Therefore, capacity and service interval duration are definitely not a shortcoming with the EAOM134 and EAOM134C units. They are constructed with top-shelf components and materials. These filters are definitely built to go the distance.

AMSOIL EAOM Oil Filters also deliver world-class particle removal. They remove 98.7% of contaminants at 20-microns or larger. See how this compares to Harley Davidson’s 5-micron oil filter claims.

Will The Milwaukee-Eight Engine Run Cooler With A Slightly Longer Oil Filter?

Not likely to any measurable degree. Using AMSOIL V-Twin Synthetic 20W-50 can lower V-Twin engine temps. Our customers observe this regularly.

In conclusion, AMSOIL Synthetic Oil Filters for the Milwaukee-Eight engine provide the proper flow rate and more than enough filtering capacity. The AMSOIL EAOM134 and EAOM134C oil filters are very much an upgrade for the M-8 engine. The AMSOIL synthetic filter media is among the most sophisticated on the market. It provides exceptional protection and long service life.

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Can AMSOIL 20W-50 Cure Harley Milwaukee-8 Valvetrain Ticking Noise?

Harley-Davidson Milwaukee-Eight Engine

photo credit: cycleworld.com

A reader asks: I’ve got a 2019 Harley-Davidson Street Glide with the Milwaukee-8 107 engine. When using conventional 20W-50 oil, I hear a valve ticking noise at about 2100 RPM. Will AMSOIL Synthetic 20W-50 cure this noise?

Our answer: Some customer feedback seems to suggest that this particular valvetrain noise disappears once they switch to AMSOIL V-Twin Synthetic 20W-50.

Please note that we haven’t personally witnessed this, nor is this a claim made by AMSOIL Inc. But this is customer feedback we have received regarding the use of AMSOIL 20W-50 in the the Milwaukee-Eight engine.

Why Would AMSOIL V-Twin Synthetic 20W-50 Make The Milwaukee-Eight Motor Run Quieter?

It would have something to do with the robust additive package in this synthetic 20W-50. AMSOIL formulated this oil to provide a powerful anti-wear barrier. This no-doubt contributes to overall smoother and quieter v-twin operation.

Another factor is that AMSOIL 20W-50 also lowers friction. Harley customers constantly comment that their engines have better throttle response than with other oils.

AMSOIL V-Twin Synthetic 20W-50 is a favorite with owners of all types of Harley-Davidson engines. We routinely hear about noticeably cooler operating temperatures and smoother performance. This AMSOIL 20W-50 is probably the most cost-effective upgrade you can make for your Harley-Davidson motorcycle.

Here is more information on AMSOIL new line of oil-change kits for H-D Twin Cam and Milwaukee-Eight engines. Also note AMSOIL’s superb V-Twin Transmission and Primary Fluids.

In conclusion, the Milwaukee-Eight engine is Harley’s latest and most refined engine ever. It is designed to run considerably smoother than the Twin-Cam engine it replaced. AMSOIL V-Twin Synthetic 20W-50 can optimize this smoothness and protect your investment.

Have questions or would you like to see wholesale pricing? Contact us using the form on this page.

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Is 10W-30 Oil Too Thin For Ram 6.7L Cummins Engines?

A reader asks: I’ve got a 2019 Ram 2500 with the 6.7L Cummins diesel. My manual says to use 10W-30 motor oil meeting the MS-10902 or API CJ-4 specification. I’m used to running a 5W-40 or 15W-40 in my previous trucks. Isn’t 10W-30 a bit thin for this engine?

Our answer: We can assure you that a good 10W-30 diesel motor oil is safe for your engine. But let’s discuss an important detail to watch for on the oil bottle label. This detail will improve the odds that your engine will receive the best possible wear protection.

When buying diesel motor oil, look for the “API CK-4” designation. API CK-4 is the very latest diesel engine oil standard. It is backward-compatible with API CJ-4 and Chrysler MS-10902 (and therefore warranty-approved).

Is API CK-4 An Upgrade Over API CJ-4 Diesel Oils?

Yes. The API CK-4 standard has very lofty requirements in terms of oxidation resistance, shear stability and wear resistance. It is dramatically superior to API CI-4+ motor oils you may have used 15 years ago. It is even a significant step up from the previous API CJ-4 standard. One of the primary goals of the API CK-4 spec was to allow for the use of lower viscosity oils without sacrificing wear protection.

Why Did Chrysler Decide To Go With 10W-30 In The 6.7L Cummins?

The move toward thinner oils in engines, transmissions and differentials has been going on for years. The reason is simple. Automakers are under constant pressure to meet government-mandated fuel economy targets. Going to lower viscosity oils is a relatively simple way to make marginal mileage gains.

It may seem like wear control is being sacrificed to achieve slightly better fuel economy. This has not turned out to be the case. The motor oil industry is constantly raising the bar to strike that balance between improved fuel economy and satisfactory wear protection. The API CK-4 specification achieves this balance.

Is 5W-40 An Option In Newer 6.7L Cummins Engines?

All this being said, Chrysler does suggest that 5W-40 engine oil can be used in temperatures under 0°F (-18°C). So 5W-40 is certainly secondary option. If your engine is seriously modified or if the truck is used for extreme towing, 5W-40 is certainly viable. But again, under most conditions, 10W-30 diesel oil is perfectly safe.

Our Motor Oil Suggestions For RAM 6.7L Cummins Diesel Engines

We suggest AMSOIL synthetic diesel oils (of course). Some brands may meet the API CK-4 standard. AMSOIL CK-4 diesel products are designed to exceed this spec. Here are the options.

Signature Series Max-Duty Synthetic Diesel Oil is AMSOIL’s ultra-premium API CK-4 diesel motor oil line. It is available in both 10W-30 and 5W-40 for the Cummins 6.7. It is also available in 15W-40, 5W30 and 0W-40. This series is designed to out-perform on every front. The most important is wear control. Signature Series exceeds the Detroit Diesel Scuffing Test standard by 600%. It is also overbuilt for extended-drain capability.

Heavy-Duty Series Synthetic Diesel Oil is AMSOIL’s commercial-grade API-CK-4 diesel line. This line is also available in 10W-30 and 5W-40 for the Cummins 6.7L motor. It is also available in 15W-40. Heavy-Duty Series has a lower price tag for commercial fleets and cost-conscious consumers. But it still delivers top-notch wear protection. It beats the Detroit Diesel Scuffing Test standard by 400%.

In conclusion, check the bottle for the API CK-4 specification. You will receive the very latest diesel oil technology.

If you are interested in pricing for highly-effective AMSOIL Synthetic Diesel Engine Oils, contact us using the form on this page.

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Will A Gear Oil Change Cure Limited-Slip Differential Noise? 

AMSOIL Severe Gear 75W-140 Synthetic Gear OilA reader asks: I’ve got a 2013 Ford F-150 with 86,000 miles. The rear differential has developed a chattering noise when taking slow corners. I have never changed the gear oil. This is a limited slip differential. Would changing the gear oil cure this noise?

Our answer: While we can’t say for sure, it is possible that a gear oil change and fresh limited slip additive could cure this chatter noise. We have heard of situations where this has worked. The simplest possible option is to try changing gear oil and limited-slip additive first.

Of course, this is assuming that there is not a mechanical issue at play. Worn clutches and springs can also lead to limited-slip differential performance problems. In that case, new oil would not cure the issue.

What seems to happen in some cases is that the original gear oil and limited-slip friction modifier additive break down over time. This can allow the clutch packs to chatter during low-speed corners.

Our Best Gear Oil And Limited Slip Additive

We strongly recommend AMSOIL Severe Gear 75W-140 Synthetic Gear Oil and AMSOIL Slip Lock Differential Additive. AMSOIL Severe Gear is about the most robust gear oil money can buy. It offers superb wear control, long life and friction reduction. It performs very well in arctic cold or extreme southern heat.

AMSOIL Slip Lock is a high-quality replacement for OEM limited-slip additives. It provides reliable, quiet performance at a very reasonable price.

Once the oil is changed, take the truck to an open parking lot. Slowly drive the truck in a figure-8 pattern to burnish the Slip Lock additive into the limited-slip clutch packs. You will soon see if this oil change has cured your issue.

Helpful Installation Tips

Installing gear oil in a differential can be an awkward and messy process. We have a couple of solutions that can make life much easier. The first is AMSOIL’s ingenious “Easy-Pack” container option. The “drink-box-inspired” Easy-Pack allows you to squeeze the oil directly into the differential, regardless of how cramped the location.

The other helpful solution is the AMSOIL Hand-Pump For Bottles. This kit allows you to pump oil out of quart, gallon or 2.5-gallon bottles. This inexpensive kit will come in very handy in your garage.

We certainly hope that your differential issue is not something more serious. A differential oil change is an inexpensive solution that could very well do the trick. At this point in your vehicle’s life, it’s definitely time to change the factory differential oil anyway.

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

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Can I Use Car Motor Oil In My Yamaha Snowmobile Engine?

A reader asks: I just bought a 2011 Yamaha Apex LTX snowmobile with the 998cc 4-stroke engine. The manual suggests using a 0W-30 motor oil meeting API SG (or higher) and JASO MA. All I can find locally is a NAPA Synthetic 5W-30. This is basically a car engine oil. Is it OK to use a car oil in a snowmobile engine? 

Our answer: No, a car motor oil is not suitable for your Yamaha snowmobile. While an automotive oil like this may work in a pinch, it’s not the best option for regular snowmobile engine duty. It would be very wise to use a motor oil that is formulated for power sports use. Here are the reasons.

Yamaha suggests that a motor oil meet the “JASO MA” specification. This is a Japanese motorcycle oil spec that has wet-clutch performance requirements. Motor oils meeting JASO MA are different from automotive motor oils in one specific area. Automotive motor oils contain friction modifiers to improve fuel mileage and combat wear. These friction modifiers can glaze and ruin motorcycle wet-clutch plates. Therefore, motorcycle/ATV motor oils do not contain friction modifiers.

Do Friction Modifiers Matter In Snowmobile Engines? Yes!

There is a belief by some that Yamaha forbids the use of friction modifers in the motor oil for their snowmobile engines. We didn’t think so, but learned otherwise the day after this post was first published. Most Yamaha snowmobile engines do actually employ a wet-clutch in the starter system. The friction modifiers in automotive motor can cause slippage and wear on the starter clutch. So using the Mobil 1 meant for your truck is not good for your Yamaha snowmobile!

There is another good reason that JASO MA might be suggested. This being that a power sports-specific motor oil will have higher levels of zinc and phosphorus than a modern automotive motor oil. Zinc and phosphorus are important anti-wear additives. Therefore, suggesting a JASO MA oil will ensure that the consumer uses a motor oil that offers sufficiently robust anti-wear properties.

A Suitable Engine Oil For Yamaha 4-Stroke Oil Snowmobiles

Our best all-round option for 4-stroke snowmobiles is AMSOIL Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports Synthetic 0W-40. Why a 0W-40? Yamaha themselves suggest synthetic 0W-40 as an option for most all their 4-stroke models.

Here are the features that make AMSOIL Formula 4-Stroke 0W-40 such a strong option for Yamaha snowmobiles.

  • Anti-rust and corrosion additives not found in car motor oil
  • Flows down to -60°F for strong cold-start protection
  • Maintains film strength under extreme heat and heavy loads
  • Fights oil consumption
  • Offers elite wear protection
  • Wet-clutch-starter compatible
  • Meets API SL/CF, SJ, SH, SG and JASO MA/MA2 specifications

Questions? Feel free to contact us using the form on this page.

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Why You Probably Should Not Buy AMSOIL Dominator 2-Stroke Racing Oil

AMSOIL Dominator Synthetic 2-Stroke Racing OilAMSOIL Dominator Synthetic 2-Stroke Racing Oil could be considered the best product in its category on the planet. But we spend far more time talking customers OUT of buying Dominator for snowmobiles than selling it. Let us explain.

Dominator is designed for 2-stroke racing engines only. It is made for very hot operating temps and engines that are pushed to sky-high RPM.

A daily-use trail or mountain sled simply will not run hot enough to completely burn off Dominator’s additive package. What if your engine is modified or even turbo-charged? AMSOIL Interceptor is the more appropriate choice for all recreational use. This is the case regardless of how fast you ride.

Another major consideration is that Dominator’s detergent content is relatively low. The reason for this is that racing engines torn down frequently and run ultra-hot. So there is little need for a significant amount of detergent in the formula. When used in recreational engines, Dominator could contribute to some deposit build-up. Interceptor has a very robust detergent package. For this reason alone, Interceptor is a far better choice that Dominator in high-performance snowmobiles with variable exhaust power valves.

Does Interceptor Offer Less Wear Protection Than Dominator?

In terms of protection and performance, Interceptor is not a step down from Dominator. Dominator has a slightly thicker viscosity than Interceptor. But Interceptor also withstands extreme heat and heavy loads, while keeping power valves clean over extended periods. Interceptor is not a compromise for recreational-use. It provides the perfect balance of performance, top-notch protection and clean operation.

Getting The Correct Oil For The Job

We recently had a call from a customer that owned two Ski-Doo snowmobiles. One with the latest 800cc E-TEC engine and a 550cc fan-cooled engine in the other. He assumed that Dominator Racing Oil was AMSOIL’s best two-stroke oil. Therefore, he believed that he was doing right by his engines by using Dominator.

As a result of our conversation, he chose Interceptor for both machines. He could have used AMSOIL Synthetic Injector Oil in the 550cc fan-cooled engine. But he went with Interceptor in order to keep one oil on hand.

Here are AMSOIL’s three snowmobile 2-stroke injectors oils and a brief description of their intended use.

AMSOIL Interceptor– the premium choice for the very latest high-performance engines. Especially ideal for engines with power valves. A terrific upgrade over OEM synthetic injector oils. Interceptor is one of AMSOIL’s most acclaimed products

AMSOIL Synthetic Injector Oil– A value-priced synthetic 2-stroke oil. Ideal for utility machines, fan-cooled models or older high-performance engines. Suitable for use with power valves.

AMSOIL Dominator 2-Stroke Racing Oil– For racing engines only. Provides industry-leading protection and performance under extreme loads.

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

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AMSOIL European Improved ESP Versus Classic ESP Motor Oil

A reader asks: I‘ve got a 2011 VW GTI with the 2.0L turbo engine. It requires a motor oil that meets the VW 502.00 specification. The AMSOIL application guide suggests that I can use ether the European Car Formula Improved ESP 5W-40 or the European Car Formula Classic ESP 5W-40. What is the best oil to use? Is the “Improved” option better than the “Classic” formula?

Our answer: Let us preface our answer by stating that it is vital to choose a motor oil that meets the correct industry specification for your model. This is especially the case with European automobiles. You are fortunate in that you have a couple of choices. Both of these AMSOIL options meet the VW 502.00 spec.

For your car, there’s no wrong answer between the “AFL” AMSOIL European Car Formula Improved ESP 5W-40 or the “EFM” European Car Formula Classic ESP 5W-40. Identical performance and protection is offered by both products.

But we would lean toward “Classic” Formula 5W-40. Simply because it is priced much lower than the “Improved” Formula 5W-40. Here’s why.

What Is The Difference Between European “Improved” And “Classic” Formulas?

AMSOIL European Car Formula Classic ESP Synthetic 5W-40 Motor OilWhile both the “Classic” and “Improved” ESP 5W-40 offer about the same performance and protection, they each have a much different formulation approach.

The Improved ESP 5W-40 Formula has lower “SAPS” levels. This stands for Sulphated Ash, Phosphorus and Sulfur. SAPS are motor oil anti-wear and detergent additives. Higher levels of SAPS in motor oils can cause issues for some sensitive emission system components.

This is why certain modern European models are prescribed a motor oil specification that has low SAPS levels. For instance, most late-model European passenger vehicles with diesel engines have very sophisticated emissions equipment and exhaust treatment devices. They will usually require a low SAPS motor oil.

In place of reduced SAPS levels, motor oils like AMSOIL Improved ESP 5W-40 Formula contain ashless motor oil additives. Ashless additives tend to be far more expensive than regular SAPS additives. A common misconception is that motor oils with lower SAPS levels provide less protection. This is not the case. The ashless additives employed by AMSOIL provide exceptional protection and performance.

SAPS additives are easy to source and relatively inexpensive. This why the Classic ESP 5W-40 is much less expensive than the lower SAPS Improved ESP 5W-40.

In conclusion, both of these synthetic motor oils offer world-class performance, protection and service life. But while they have a much different ingredient list, the end result is same. For that reason, the lower price tag on “Classic” Formula 5W-40 tips the scales in its favor.

Important: For cars that suggest the Improved European Formulas with lower “SAPS”, use only that product. Consult our online application guide to find the right motor oil for your car.

Contact us with questions or to request a price list using the form on this page. 

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Cheapest And Easiest Snowmobile Upgrades

Polaris Rush 800 Pro X3 What is the cheapest and easiest way to upgrade your snowmobile? That’s simple and it’s no contest: synthetic oil. Some say synthetic oil is too expensive? No. It is literally the cheapest upgrade you can make to your snowmobile. The benefits far out-weigh the modest cost increase over mineral snowmobile oil.

Why synthetic oil? Your engine will run better at all temperatures and last longer. We don’t understand why conventional oils would even be a consideration in any snowmobile of any model year.

How Synthetic Oil Helps Two-Stroke Snowmobile Engines

If you have been running conventional oil in your 2-stroke engine, you will see a difference immediately after the switch to synthetic. You will notice less exhaust smoke and smoother performance. The engine will be easier to start in cold weather. If the engine is equipped with variable exhaust power valves, they will stay clean over longer periods. Simply put, a two-stroke engine will function better in every imaginable scenario with synthetic oil. This applies to old or the very latest engines.

Recommended products:
Late-model or high-performance snowmobiles- AMSOIL Interceptor
Trail, utility or recreational snowmobiles- AMSOIL Synthetic Injector Oil

Synthetic Oil In Four-Stroke Engines

As with 2-stroke engines, there is absolutely no good reason to use conventional oil in a 4-cycle snowmobile motor. The first benefit that comes to mind is improved oil flow during cold-starts. Synthetic oil flows better than conventional oil in cold weather. Therefore, this prevents wear during cold-starts. On the flip-side, synthetic oil will also provide vastly better protection in extreme heat. This is the case with everything from utility machines to fire-breathing mountain sleds.

Recommended product: AMSOIL Formula 4-Stroke Powersports 0W-40 Synthetic Oil

Synthetic Chain-case Oil

The chain-case is an often-forgotten component. The thrashing that the oil receives in a snowmobile chain-case is hardly trivial. Chain-case oil has to contend with foaming, shearing, moisture, corrosion, high temperatures and low temperatures. A good synthetic chain-case oil withstands all of these issues and even lowers friction for improved performance and wear reduction. Changing out the chain-case oil after every season is a wise choice.

Recommended product: AMSOIL Synthetic Chain-Case and Gear Oil

Synthetic Chassis Grease For Snowmobiles

For snowmobiles with grease-able chassis points, a good synthetic grease can reduce wear. Synthetic grease lowers friction under cold temperatures and will also pump out of the grease gun with greater ease. Also, it is vital to choose a grease that resists the effects of snow, ice, water and salt.

Recommended product: AMSOIL Synthetic Water Resistant Grease

Bonus Tip- Preventing Snowmobile Fuel Issues

One of the largest sources of mechanical problems is related to fuel. Ethanol, moisture, dirty fuel, stale gasoline and varnish are common trouble makers. Any one of these issues can cause starting problems or an expensive break-down on the trail. AMSOIL Quickshot Gasoline Additive literally neutralizes all of these issues. It promotes trouble-free performance all season long. This cost-effective product is ideal for 2-stroke or 4-stroke engines.

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

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Is There A Dye To Color Or Darken Clear Hydraulic Or Compressor Oils?

A reader asks: We have a variety of compressor and hydraulic systems in our plant. Our technicians frequently complain about difficulty with seeing clear oils in sight glasses. We’ve even had situations where production has been temporarily halted because we mistakenly believed that a reservoir was below the safe level. Do you offer a coloring that darkens the oil? It would help us with “hard to see” oil levels on sight glasses.

Our Answer: There is a product for coloring oils that is readily available. Heavy-equipment maker Caterpillar offers oil-soluble dyes that are suitable for most compressor, hydraulic, R & O and transmission fluids.

We have spoken to people that have had very good results with this product in hydraulic oil reservoirs. It immediately makes clear oils much more visible in sight glasses and on dipsticks.

These dyes are available from most CAT heavy-equipment dealers. CAT dealers are located all over the world. Please note that we do not sell CAT brand oil dye and have no affiliation with Caterpillar Inc.

Applications And Mixing Directions For CAT Oil Dye

Caterpillar Oil Dyes are available in the colors blue or red. They are soluble with most industrial hydraulic, compressor or gear oils where increased visibility is desired. It is best to consult your CAT dealer to ensure that the dye product is compatible with your intended application.

The recommended mix ratio is 16000:1. This means that 1 US ounce of dye will treat 125 US gallons of oil. The metric ratio is 6 milliliters of color to 100 liters of oil.

The Cat dye container size is 8 US ounces (240 ml). The entire container can treat 1000 US gallons (3785 liters) at the recommended mix rate.

Cat Oil Dye Part Numbers

Blue dye- New part number: 486-1536 (Old part number: 9U-5032)
Red dye- New part number: 486-1535 (Old part number: 9U-5031)

A Warning About Using Oil Dyes

Oil dyes are generally very concentrated. It is vital to wear gloves when handling oil dyes. Any contact with skin could lead to long-term staining.

In conclusion, oil dyes are an easy, safe and commonly found solution for clear industrial fluids.

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