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.
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
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.
Some may have noticed that AMSOIL has changed their injector oil recommendation for all Sea-Doo personal watercraft models with 2-stroke engines.
Previously, AMSOIL had suggested Interceptor Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil for Sea-Doo 2-strokes. The reason being is that Sea-Doo had traditionally suggested oils meeting the API TC specification. As Interceptor is AMSOIL’s premium API TC 2-stroke oil, it was the default choice for Sea-Doo models.
But a change in thinking prompted AMSOIL to suggest two other choices.
AMSOIL’s premium recommendation is now HP Marine Synthetic Two-Stroke Oil. The reasons AMSOIL went this route are twofold. First, HP Marine offers excellent wear control and clean engine internals. Secondly, HP Marine offers low aquatic toxicity and strong anti-rust/corrosion protection. Overall, HP Marine ticks all the boxes as the perfect Sea-Doo 2-cycle injector oil.
Isn’t HP Marine A TC-W3 Oil?
HP Marine is suggested for applications requiring NMMA TC-W3 two-stroke marine oil. Many will argue that TC-W3 oils should be avoided in Sea-Doo applications. But, keep in mind that HP Marine’s elite synthetic formula exceeds the TC-W3 standard by a country mile.
AMSOIL’s in-house testing shows that HP Marine also performs flawlessly in API TC applications. Today’s sophisticated synthetic oil technology transcends old thinking. Decades ago, a 2-cycle oil could either perform well in TC-W3 (marine) or API TC (dryland). Due to previous oil technology limitations, a 2-cycle oil may not have provided peak protection and deposit control for both categories.
Today’s ashless detergents (as found in HP Marine) and synthetic base oils are worlds better than the formulations from yesteryear. HP Marine is overbuilt in terms of wear protection and RAVE power valve deposit control. The “API TC vs. TC-W3” discussion is obsolete when it comes to some of the elite synthetic two-stroke oils of today.
AMSOIL’s Second Two-Stroke Oil Choice For Sea-Doo Models
A less expensive choice for 2-stroke Sea-Doo applications is AMSOIL Synthetic Two-Stroke Injector Oil. This product commonly replaces synthetic, semi-synthetic and mineral oils at a great price. This full-synthetic two-stroke oil also provides excellent wear protection, clean engine internals and strong corrosion control. AMSOIL designed this oil to cover many application types on both water and land.
Is Interceptor Still A Safe Choice for Sea-Doo 2-Stroke Models?
Interceptor is and was a safe choice for Sea-Doo Rotax 2-stroke engines. Nothing has changed there. Interceptor is among the best of the best API TC oils on the market.
In conclusion, AMSOIL could have stuck with Interceptor as a safe recommendation for Sea-Doo 2-stroke engines. But HP Marine also delivers cutting edge wear and deposit protection for hard-running 2-strokes. The extra boost of anti-corrosion protection and marine low-toxicity was a enough to tip the scales in favor of HP Marine.
The 3.0L EcoDiesel engine has been redesigned for 2020-21. Therefore, these motors now require a different motor oil type. The new third generation EcoDiesel motor will require a 5W-40 motor oil meeting the FCA MS-12991 standard. This new diesel engine is an option for Ram 1500, Jeep Gladiator and Jeep Wrangler models.
The previous generation of EcoDiesel engines (2014-2018) required the use of heavy-duty 5W-40 diesel oil meeting the MS-10902 standard.
About The Chrysler MS-12991 Motor Oil Specification
MS-12991 is not a new motor oil specification and was not conceived specifically for the Gen 3 EcoDiesel motor. It has been around since at least 2012. The Fiat 1.4L Turbo-charged MultiAir gasoline engine first required motor oil meeting this spec. This engine was found in the Fiat 500 starting in 2014 and Jeep Renegade starting in 2015.
This AMSOIL European FS 5W-40 has met the MS-12991 standard since 2013.
About AMSOIL European Formula FS 5W-40 Synthetic Motor Oil
The formulation of AMSOIL FS 5W-40 is 100% synthetic and has “Full-SAPS” (sulfated ash, phosphorus, sulfur). It meets the additive requirements of the FCA MS-12991 motor oil standard. “SAPS” levels are a common consideration in the European motor oil category.
AMSOIL European FS Synthetic 5W-40 offers protection against extreme heat and delivers superb turbo-charger protection. This oil is fortified with a healthy zinc level to fortify wear control. The 100% synthetic formula also delivers fast winter start-up protection. AMSOIL formulated this product with a robust detergent package to keep engine internals clean.
We can sell AMSOIL European Formula FS 5W-40 Synthetic Motor Oil at wholesale prices in Canada and the USA. Contact us for a price list using the form on this page.
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.
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.
AMSOIL Preferred Customers and Catalog customers can get free ship when ordering 5-quarts of motor oil until March 2nd, 2021. The regular free shipping threshold for Preferred Customers and Catalog customers is $130 in Canada and $100 in the US.
Free Shipping Promotion Details
This promotion is for AMSOIL Preferred Customers and Catalog Customers in Canada and the US.
Offer: Buy five quarts of the same motor oil type and get free shipping. See eligible product list below.
Promo Code: “FIVE221” – For both telephone and online orders.
Promotion Dates: From Feb 17th until 11:59 (CST) March 2nd, 2021
AMSOIL Dealers, Commercial and Retailer accounts are not eligible for this promotion.
Which Products Are Eligible For This Promotion?
Only the passenger car/light-truck, diesel, racing and European motor oils (listed below) are eligible for this promotion.
All five US-quarts must be the same motor oil product.
The order must total at least five US-quarts. An order of a US-gallon plus one single quart would also qualify.
Dominator Synthetic Racing Oil- 5W-20, 10W-30, 15W-50, SAE 60
Diesel Synthetic Engine Oils
Signature Series Max-Duty- 5W-30, 10W-30, 0W-40, 5W-40, 15W-40
Heavy-Duty Series- 10W-30, 5W-40, 15W-40
Series 3000 5W-30 Synthetic Heavy-Duty Diesel Oil
15W-40 Synthetic Heavy Duty Diesel and Marine Oil
How Can I Participate In This Promotion?
To start, request a wholesale price list using the form on this page. If you would like to place an order, we can find the best option for you.
What Are AMSOIL Preferred Customers And Catalog Customers?
The AMSOIL Preferred Customer membership is a wholesale program for individuals. Catalog Customers purchase AMSOIL products at suggested retail prices.
Not All Regions Are Eligible For This Shipping Promotion
Some Canadian locales may not be eligible for this free shipping promotion. Our carrier may add extra fees to areas that they deem as “remote”. Contact us with your postal code and we can quickly determine if your region qualifies.
Orders destined for shipped Hawaii and Alaska are not eligible for this promotion.
Questions? Contact us using the form on this page or call 1-800-748-5781.
AMSOIL has released a brand-new coolant formulated for high-performance powersport engines. AMSOIL Powersports Antifreeze And Coolant is a pre-mixed ethylene glycol formula. It is compatible with all of your toys.
Why Did AMSOIL Make A Powersports Coolant Product?
This product was conceived to provide protection, high-performance and significant convenience. It is designed to protect engines against the rigors of extreme heat and extended periods of heavy loads. This coolant is also fortified with strong anti-corrosion additives for very long life. It can stay in service for up to five years.
As for convenience, it comes pre-mixed, so you do not have to add water. It is packaged in a portable one-quart bottle for easy pouring.
Suitable Applications For AMSOIL Powersports Antifreeze And Coolant
This product is compatible with all powersports cooling system components and OEM coolants. Therefore, it can be used for topping-up existing coolant or for total system flushes.
Suitable applications include:
Motorcycle, Dirt Bike, Motocross
Snowmobile
ATV, UTV, Side-By-Side
Personal Watercraft
Kart
Any liquid-cooled small engine
Where Can I Buy AMSOIL Powersports Antifreeze And Coolant?
Oildepot can sell AMSOIL Powersports Antifreeze And Coolant at wholesale prices in Canada and the US. Request a price list using the form on this page.
AMSOIL Preferred Customers and Catalog customers can get free shipping on orders over $75 until February 16th, 2021.
February Free Shipping Promotion Details
This promotion is for AMSOIL Preferred Customers and Catalog Customers in Canada and the US.
Offer: Spend $75, get free shipping Promo Code: “FREE221” – For both telephone and online orders. End Date: 11:59 (CST) February 16th, 2021
AMSOIL Dealers, Commercial and Retailer accounts are not eligible for this promotion.
What Are Preferred Customers And Catalog Customers?
The AMSOIL Preferred Customer membership is a wholesale program for individuals buying the products for their own use. Catalog Customers purchase the products at suggested retail.
How Can I Take Part In This Promotion?
For starters, contact us for a wholesale price list using the form on this page. If you wish to proceed, we can find the program that suits your needs.
Not All Regions Are Eligible For Shipping Promotions
Some Canadian locations may not be eligible for this free shipping promotion. Our carrier adds extra fees to regions that they deem as “remote”. Contact us with your postal code and we can quickly determine if your area qualifies.
Orders destined for shipped Hawaii and Alaska are not eligible for this promotion.
Questions? Contact us using the form on this page or call 1-800-748-5781.
Each kit contains the appropriate amount of engine oil, an oil filter, oil filter o-ring and two different types of drain-plug washers.
Why Did AMSOIL Spec 0W-40 For This Kit?
AMSOIL went with their legendary Formula 4-Stroke PowerSport Synthetic 0W-40 Engine Oil with all three Can-Am kit options. This product is perfectly appropriate in arctic cold as it is in desert heat. It holds its viscosity when exposed to high-RPM, heavy loads and extreme heat. The powerful full-synthetic formula will deliver steady protection for the entire service interval. Formula 4-Stroke 0W-40 is a terrific upgrade to any ATV or side-by-side.
Why Are Two Drain-Plug Washers Included With Can-Am Oil Change Kits?
Two different types of oil drain-plug washers are included with oil change kits for Can-Am models. Some models use an aluminum crush-washer type, while others use a copper washer. Either way, these oil change kits provide a fresh washer for your Can-Am.
Where Can I Buy AMSOIL Oil Change Kits For Can-Am Off-Road Models?
Oildepot can sell these oil change kits in Canada and the USA. Request a wholesale price list using the form on this page. We ship from 13 North American warehouses with free shipping options.
