Tag Archive for: 2-stroke oil

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Replacement For Mercury Optimax DFI 2-Cycle Oil

AMSOIL HP Marine 2-Stroke Injector Oil A reader asks: I’ve got a Mercury Optimax 150 outboard motor. Do you have a substitute for Mercury Optimax 2-Stroke Oil?

Our answer: Yes, we most certainly do. AMSOIL HP Marine Synthetic 2-Cycle Injector Oil is a world-class outboard 2-stroke engine oil. We contend that this product is an upgrade over the synthetic-blend Optimax 2-Cycle Oil from Mercury. We can offer this product at a price that is lower than Optimax oil in many cases.

Why Mercury Optimax Motors Require A Quality Injector Oil

Mercury Optimax engines are direct-injected motors that utilize fairly sophisticated technology. The hallmark of the Optimax system is the injection of atomized fuel-air mixture into the combustion chamber (rather than fuel only). The injected fuel droplets can be smaller than 5 microns at low-RPM.

Optimax motors also enhance efficiency by varying the fuel/oil ratio depending on RPM and load. At full throttle, the mix can be as rich as 44:1. At low RPM, the mix rate is as lean as 400:1. Therefore, not just any 2-cycle injector oil is up to the task.

Optimax engines also require an oil with a strong detergent content. Above all, prevention of engine deposits is paramount for maintaining proper performance and efficiency.

About AMSOIL HP Marine

AMSOIL HP Marine Synthetic 2-Stroke Injector Oil is a top-tier product designed for modern DFI 2-cycle outboard motors. The full-synthetic formula and robust additive ingredients provide maximum protection in direct-fuel-injected (DFI) motors. Modern 2-stroke motors like Mercury Optimax and Evinrude E-TEC can operate with ultra-lean mix ratios. HP Marine delivers maximum wear protection under these harsh operating conditions.

This product also provides powerful detergents, keeping engine internals and exhaust ports clean. HP Marine offers low aquatic toxicity along with minimal exhaust smoke and odor.

HP Marine is also backward compatible with older 2-cycle outboard motors.

Where to Buy AMSOIL HP Marine Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil?

Oildepot can offer HP Marine at wholesale prices in the US and Canada. Contact us for wholesale price list using the form on this page. If you have questions, feel free to call us at 1-800-748-5781.

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Is Special Oil Needed For Vintage Snowmobile Engines?

AMSOIL Synthetic 2-Stroke Injector Oil A reader asks: I’ve got a fleet of restored snowmobiles from the 1970’s and early 1980’s. Regarding 2-stroke oil, I see that there is now a Polaris Vintage 2-Stroke Oil available. Would this product be my best choice?

Our answer: First off, we have no data or test information on Polaris Vintage 2-Stroke Oil. We are sure that it is a perfectly competent product. However, it is a conventional (or mineral) two-cycle oil. We are huge advocates of synthetic oil in two-stroke engines. Do note that older two-stroke engines are 100% compatible with synthetic oil. In fact, the advantages of synthetic oil in classic 2-stroke motors are too numerous to overlook.

There are no specifications listed for the Polaris Vintage Oil. However, we can extrapolate a few things from their product description. The Polaris product page does note that the Vintage 2-Stroke Oil has a heavier viscosity than regular two-cycle oil. Therefore, we can assume that the oil is formulated this way for older engines with some wear and looser tolerances. Be aware that a heavy mineral oil may not flow very quickly in oil-injected engines on very cold days.

Polaris also mentions that this Vintage Oil should not be used in snowmobile engines equipped with variable exhaust power valves. This suggests that carbon deposit build-up is a concern.

Polaris does add a fuel stabilizer component to this Vintage 2-Stroke Oil formula. This is a nice touch. If a two-cycle oil does not offer gasoline preservation, we strongly advocate adding a splash of stabilizer additive to every batch of fuel.

Is Synthetic Oil Better For Vintage 2-Stroke Engines?

We contend that a full-synthetic oil is the most cost-effective upgrade for any older 2-stroke motor. A well-formulated synthetic oil will provide robust wear-control and improved friction reduction. In our opinion, this is a superior approach over simply ratcheting up viscosity for older engines.

AMSOIL’s Synthetic Option For Vintage 2-Stroke Engines

AMSOIL Synthetic 2-Stroke Injector Oil is a superb choice for any classic two-stroke engine. Here are the features and benefits of this product.

  • Excellent wear-control from synthetic base oils and robust additives
  • Outstanding cold-flow properties over mineral oil. Flows down to -63F
  • Burns clean for low exhaust smoke
  • Can be used in older engines with variable exhaust power valves
  • Delivers cleaner operation with less combustion chamber and exhaust port deposits
  • Contains ingredients that fight internal rust and corrosion
  • Premix or oil-injection compatible
  • Priced competitively with OEM mineral 2-stroke oils

Conclusion

In conclusion, older 2-stroke engines do not require a specialized 2-cycle oil. A good synthetic 2-stroke oil will provide maximum wear protection, cleaner operation and offer a performance upgrade.

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2022 Arctic Cat Snowmobile Oil Options

2022 Arctic Car ZR 9000 Thundercat

photo credit: supertraxmag.com

Here are the highlights for Arctic Cat’s 2022 snowmobile line-up. We will also include a synthetic oil suggestion for each model and motor option. 

We can offer AMSOIL Synthetic Oils for all model-year Arctic Cat snowmobiles at wholesale prices in Canada and the US. Enjoy free shipping on qualified orders. Contact us for pricing using the form on this page or call us at 1-800-748-5781.

2022 Arctic Cat Snowmobile Highlights

New Arctic Cat Clutch System

Arctic Cat has introduced a brand-new clutch assembly system for all 2022 full-sized models. The new “Adapt CVT” clutch system is designed and manufactured by Arctic Cat. The main advantage of the new Adapt CVT clutch is lower weight. This results in faster throttle response. The mid-sized Blast series models do not receive this new clutch system.

More Blast Models

The Blast series has received two more models. New is the Blast XR cross-over sled and the Blast XR Touring model. The Blast models have a mid-sized chassis and 400cc, single cylinder engine.

Power Steering Added To ZR 9000 Thundercat

For 2022, Arctic Cat has added power steering to what they suggest is the fastest production sled on the market. The turbo-charged ZR 9000 Thundercat is now equipped with variable assist electric power steering. This addition helps riders maneuver this beast at lower speeds and on tight trails.

AMSOIL Synthetic Oils For Arctic Cat Snowmobile Engines

AMSOIL Interceptor Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil
Arctic Cat C-TEC2 engines use very little oil compared to traditional two-stroke motors. Interceptor delivers proven protection in C-TEC2 engines. It offers world-class wear control and superb APV valve cleaning power. Interceptor is also a premium choice for Blast 4000 engines and previous non-C-TEC2 motors. This 100% synthetic oil replaces Arctic Cat C-TEC2 Synthetic Oil and Arctic Cat APV Synthetic 2-Cycle Oil.

AMSOIL offers their own snowmobile warranty for those using AMSOIL Interceptor in 2022 Arctic Cat models.

AMSOIL Synthetic 2-Stroke Injector Oil
Why bother with the conventional Arctic Cat Formula 50 Mineral 2-Stroke Oil? Upgrade to a full-synthetic product at a similar price. AMSOIL Synthetic 2-Stroke Injector Oil delivers improved cold-weather performance, lower smoke and clean engine internals. Ideal for Arctic Cat 565cc fan-cooled engines and also older engines with APV valves.

AMSOIL Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports 0W-40 Synthetic Motor Oil
AMSOIL offers the ultimate 4-stroke snowmobile engine oil. Ideal for all Arctic Cat 4-stroke motors, including the turbocharged ZR 9000 Thundercat engine. This elite full-synthetic formula withstands extreme heat and loads while flowing down to -60°F.

2022 Arctic Cat Snowmobile Models

Here are all 2022 Arctic Cat snowmobile models along with the correct AMSOIL synthetic oil product for each 2-stroke or 4-stroke engine option.

  • Blast 4000 (all models), 397cc l/c- Interceptor
  • M 8000 Hardcore Alpha One (all models), 794cc l/c- Interceptor
  • M 8000 Mountain Cat Alpha One (all models), 794cc l/c- Interceptor
  • Riot 6000 (all models), 599cc l/c- Interceptor
  • Riot 8000 (all models), 794cc l/c- Interceptor
  • ZR 6000 RR/Limited, 599cc l/c- Interceptor
  • ZR 8000 RR/Limited/Limited with ATAC, 794cc l/c- Interceptor
  • ZR 9000 Thundercat (all models) , 998cc l/c turbo- Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports 0W-40
  • Norseman 8000, 794cc l/c- Interceptor
  • ZR 120 123cc f/c- Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports 0W-40
  • ZR 200 192cc f/c- Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports 0W-40

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

 

 

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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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2021 Arctic Cat Snowmobile Oil Suggestions

2021 Arctic Cat Blast ZR 4000 Snowmobile

Photo credit: Snogoer.com

2021 Arctic Cat Snowmobile Highlights

Arctic Cat’s most significant change for 2021 is the introduction of the “Blast” 4000 series of mid-sized snowmobiles. Blast models are powered by a 397cc, 2-stroke, single-cylinder engine. This engine features electronic-fuel-injection and a 3-stage APV exhaust valve. Blast motors generate about 70-horsepower. There is a Blast 4000 “M” (mountain), “ZR” (trail) and “LT” (utility) version of this series.

We can offer AMSOIL Synthetic Oils for Arctic Cat snowmobiles at wholesale prices in Canada and the US. There is free shipping on qualified orders. Contact us for pricing using the form on this page or call us at 1-800-748-5781.

AMSOIL Synthetic Oils For Arctic Cat Snowmobile Engines

AMSOIL Interceptor Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil
An ultra-premium oil for the 600cc and 800cc C-TEC2 engines. Also perfect for the new Blast Series 400cc engine. Interceptor contains powerful detergents that fight deposits in APV valves. Delivers industry-leading performance and wear protection.

AMSOIL Synthetic 2-Stroke Injector Oil
A full-synthetic substitute for Arctic Cat Formula 50 Mineral 2-Stroke Oil. This oil is a terrific upgrade for the Arctic Cat 565cc fan-cooled engines of previous model-years. AMSOIL Injector Oil offers robust wear protection and clean engine internals at a great price.

AMSOIL Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports 0W-40 Synthetic Motor Oil
The perfect 0W-40 substitute for Arctic Cat C-TEC4 Synthetic 4-Stroke Engine Oil. A safe choice for all turbo and non-turbo 4-stroke motors. Designed to withstand extreme heat and hard operation. Flows quickly in arctic conditions.

2021 Arctic Cat Snowmobiles With AMSOIL Synthetic Oil Suggestion

Here is the 2021 Arctic snowmobile line-up along with the proper AMSOIL synthetic oil for each engine option.

  • Blast M 4000 146 2.0, 397cc l/c- Interceptor
  • M 8000 Hardcore Alpha One (all models), 794cc l/c- Interceptor
  • M 8000 Mountain Cat Alpha One (all models), 794cc l/c- Interceptor
  • Riot 6000 146 1.6 ARS II, 599cc l/c- Interceptor
  • Riot 8000 146 (all models), 794cc l/c- Interceptor
  • Blast ZR 4000 121 1.0, 397cc l/c- Interceptor
  • ZR 6000 R XC/Limited, 599cc l/c- Interceptor
  • ZR 8000 RR/Limited, 794cc l/c- Interceptor
  • ZR 9000 Thundercat, 998cc l/c turbo- Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports 0W-40
  • Blast LT 4000 146 1.6, 397cc l/c- Interceptor
  • Norseman X 8000, 794cc l/c- Interceptor
  • ZR 120 123cc f/c- Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports 0W-40
  • ZR 200 192cc f/c- Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports 0W-40

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

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

AMSOIL Dominator Synthetic 2-Stroke Racing Oil AMSOIL 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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Choosing A Premix Ratio for Older 2-Stroke Engines

A reader asks: What is the correct oil to gas mixture for a 1973 Ski-Doo TNT 340 snowmobile? Is it safe to use synthetic oil in older 2-stroke engines like this?

Our answer: The ratio suggested by Ski-Doo 45 years ago would not be relevant today. Oil technology has changed dramatically since the 1970’s. The ratio used should be the one suggested on the label of the chosen oil.

Vintage snowmobiles and motorcycles from that era suggested premix ratios ranging from 20:1 to 40:1. Conventional 2-stroke oils from the 70’s would have a fraction of the film strength of today’s sophisticated synthetic 2-stroke oils. Anyone who rode snowmobiles back in those days remembers the clouds of smoky exhaust. A larger volume of oil had to added to the fuel to provide adequate engine protection.

When using a modern 2-cycle oil, go with the ratio suggested on the oil bottle label. It will work just fine. When ever changing to a different 2-stroke oil, it’s a good idea to do a spark plug reading.

AMSOIL 2-Stroke Oil Choices For Vintage Snowmobiles

AMSOIL Synthetic 2-Stroke Injector Oil If you looking for an AMSOIL synthetic 2-cycle oil for your classic sled, we’ve got two candidates.

AMSOIL Synthetic 2-Stroke Injector Oil is a value-priced synthetic that offers big features at a better price than many conventional and semi-syn 2-cycle oils. This product offers clean burning performance, low-smoke and exceptional wear protection. Synthetic 2-Stroke Injector Oil is also versatile as it can be used in snowmobiles or outboard engines. Ideal for either premix or oil injection systems.

AMSOIL Interceptor Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil is the absolute cream of the crop for the very latest high-tech snowmobiles. It also highly effective as a premix in older engines. AMSOIL Interceptor Synthetic 2-Stroke OilInterceptor offers a sophisticated synthetic base oil and a high detergent content for ultra-clean combustion and incredible deposit-fighting ability. Interceptor is the ultimate 2-stroke oil for maximum performance and wear control.

With either AMSOIL choice, go with the prescribed 50:1 ratio. This is a very conservative ratio that will deliver clean combustion and the best possible wear protection in any 2-cycle snowmobile engine. Use this ratio regardless of the original oil/gasoline mix ratio recommended by the snowmobile manufacturer.

Is Modern Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil Safe for Vintage Engines?

There are no compatibility problems with running synthetic 2-stroke oil in older engines. Synthetic oil is 100% compatible with all seal and gasket materials. There is nothing but strong benefits to using synthetic oil in older 2-strokes. Expect minimal exhaust smoke, improved throttle response and maximum wear protection.

Easy Oil/Gas Mix Ratio Calculator

Here is a link to a very helpful 2-stroke mix ratio calculator.

  • Choose whether you want to use Metric or US measurements.
  • Then add the number of US gallons or litres of fuel you will be mixing.
  • Type in your desired mix ratio and click on “Calculate”. The calculator will tell you exactly how much oil to add to the gasoline.
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Can Modern Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil Be Used In Older Engines?

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AMSOIL HP Marine Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil

Can running the latest synthetic 2-stroke oils cause problems in older outboards, snowmobiles, dirt bikes or lawn/garden engines? 

A reader asks:  I’ve got a 1995 25-horse Johnson outboard engine. Can a newer synthetic 2-stroke oil like HP Marine be used? Is there any risk that it will plug the carb or cause gelling?

Our answer: There is absolutely no problem with running the latest synthetic 2-stroke oils in older engines. In fact, there is nothing but upside to using a modern synthetic oil in an older two-stroke engine. This applies not only to outboard engines, but also older generations of snowmobiles, motorcycles, chainsaws, or ATVs.

An elite synthetic oil like AMSOIL HP Marine Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil will improve every operational aspect of your engine. Expect very low exhaust smoke, reduced friction, improved wear protection and better throttle response.

There is no risk of gelling or carburetor plugging from synthetic 2-stroke oil formulated for the latest 2-stroke engines. In fact, the opposite will occur. AMSOIL 2-stroke oils like HP Marine will provide cleaner engine internals and a strong resistance to engine deposits.

So yes, you can confidently use a modern 2-stroke oil in an older engine. Note that AMSOIL also offers a budget-priced synthetic 2-cycle oil that is also a great option. AMSOIL Synthetic 2-Stroke Injector Oil has a smaller price tag, but still offers all of the synthetic benefits. It is a versatile option that is a great fit for older two-cycle engines. Like HP Marine, AMSOIL Injector Oil can be used in oil injection systems or as a premix at 50:1. A great fit for older 2-stroke dirt bikes and snowmobiles is also AMSOIL Interceptor.

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

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Which 2-Stroke Oil For Mazda RX-8 Rotary Engine?

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A reader asks: I own a Mazda RX-8 rotary sports car. At present, some of the engine oil is injected directly into the combustion chamber to lubricate the apex, corner and side seals. This plays havoc with the engine exhaust emissions. What I want to do is to mount a separate tank with AMSOIL 2-stroke oil and pump it into the oil injection system. I think it will do a better job keeping the engine internals clean than engine oil. Which AMSOIL 2-stroke oil would be suitable for this? 

Using 2-Stroke Oil In a Mazda RX- 8 Rotary Engine?

AMSOIL INTERCEPTOR Synthetic 2-Cycle Oil

Our answer: Keeping Mazda RENESIS engines running strong and deposit-free is a well-worn subject for the RX-8 crowd. Injecting or premixing two-stroke oil to reduce rotor seal wear is also a popular topic with performance-oriented RX-8 owners. AMSOIL does not have an official opinion on using 2-stroke oil in Mazda rotary engines. But AMSOIL Technical Services does admit that this a relatively common practice.

Apparently, the best result is attained by using AMSOIL Interceptor Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil mixed at a ratio of 100:1 with the fuel. There are also aftermarket two-stroke injector pump/reservoir kits for the RX-8 engine that feed oil at about 100:1.

Regardless of the delivery method chosen, AMSOIL Interceptor would be the best choice. Interceptor’s high detergent content fights deposit formation. It is also a top-tier product for wear protection in 2-stroke engines. Given its all-star attributes, it would be the best option for this unorthodox function.

AMSOIL has published technical service bulletins stating that their synthetic motor oils are compatible with RX-8 RENESIS rotary engines.

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Snowmobile Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil Cold Flow Test: AMSOIL vs. Ski-Doo, Polaris And Arctic Cat

The video below shows how quickly Ski-Doo XPS 2-Stroke Fully Synthetic Oil, Polaris VES Synthetic 2-Cycle Snowmobile Oil, Arctic Cat CTEC2 Synthetic 2-Cycle Oil and AMSOIL Interceptor Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil flow when cooled down to -40°F.

Let’s compare the cold flow capabilities of the three main OEM synthetic 2-stroke oils with AMSOIL Interceptor Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil. In today’s sophisticated 2-stroke engines, immediate oil flow is vital. But extremely cold temperatures can strain the cold flow capabilities of even the most expensive, high-tech 2-stroke oil.

Ski-Doo, Polaris and Arctic Cat do not publish the cold-pour-points of their 2-stroke oils. The cold-pour-point lab test literally determines the temperature where an oil congeals and stops flowing. AMSOIL Interceptor’s cold-pour-point is -58°C (-72°F). Arctic Cat does make mention that their CTEC2 Synthetic 2-Cycle Oil delivers up to 50% easier cold starts.

Now you may say, “I don’t ride my sled in extreme cold. I don’t need an oil that flows down to -50 below.” Keep in mind that even under relatively normal winter weather, dry starts should be avoided (even for a fraction of a second). Why not use an oil that delivers instant oil circulation? As you’ll see in the video below, it’s quite apparent that AMSOIL Interceptor flows faster than Ski-Doo XPS Synthetic, Polaris VES Synthetic and Arctic Cat CTEC2 Synthetic.

More Than Just Fast Oil Flow During Cold Starts

So not only does AMSOIL Interceptor deliver world-class cold flow capabilities, it also provides the utmost protection in extreme heat. It is also famous for steadfast wear control, low-smoke and clean power valves over long stretches. We were once privy to an off-the-record comment by a highly placed AMSOIL executive. He said, “If our competitors knew how generously we had formulated Interceptor, they would think we were crazy”. Considering the endless praise Interceptor has received from our customers over the last decade, we can’t doubt that statement.

Lastly, consider Interceptor’s price. With Oildepot’s wholesale programs, Interceptor can be delivered to your doorstep for far less money than the price that your Ski-Doo, Polaris and Arctic Cat dealers are asking for their synthetic 2-stroke oils. Request a wholesale price list using the form on this page.

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