Tag Archive for: amsoil

Posts

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. 

/by

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. 

/by

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.

/by

2020 Polaris Snowmobile Engine Oil Recommendations

2020 Polaris RMK KHAOS Snowmobile

Photo Credit: Snowmobile.com

Below is a list of the 2020 Polaris snowmobile line-up along with an AMSOIL Synthetic Oil suggestion for each model and engine option.

There are a few new Polaris models for the 2020 season. The highlight is a new specialized mountain sled called the RMK KHAOS. They have also introduced an economical 550cc mountain machine called RMK EVO. Touring enthusiasts might be interested in the 600 INDY Adventure. Polaris also created a high-octane, do-it-all sled in the INDY 850 XC 137.

We offer AMSOIL synthetic replacements for Polaris snowmobile oil. We can sell at wholesale prices in Canada and the US. Free shipping on qualified orders. We ship from 2 warehouses in Canada and 11 in the United States. Contact us for a wholesale price list using the form on this page.

AMSOIL Products For 2020 Polaris Snowmobiles

AMSOIL Interceptor Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil
The ultimate injector oil for the Polaris 850 Patriot, 800 Cleanfire H.O. and 600 Cleanfire engines. An elite substitute for Polaris VES Full-Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil and Polaris VES Extreme Full-Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil (at a great price!). Designed to keep Polaris exhaust valves clean and provide the ultimate in synthetic performance and protection.

AMSOIL Synthetic 2-Stroke Injector Oil
A full-synthetic upgrade over Polaris Blue Synthetic-Blend 2-Stroke Oil (at a similar or better price). Provides clean performance and AMSOIL-wear protection. Ideal for the 550-fan engine and most any utility or recreational trail machine.

AMSOIL Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports 0W-40 Synthetic Oil
The right oil for any 4-stroke snowmobile engine. Suitable for turbo and non-turbo engines. Ideal for all Polaris 4-stroke engines from past seasons. Pours down to -51°C (-60°F), for instant cold-start oil flow. Withstands extreme loads and heat.

2020 Polaris Snowmobile Models With AMSOIL Synthetic Oil Suggestion

  • 600 RMK 144 599cc l/c– Interceptor
  • 600 Pro-RMK 155 599cc l/c– Interceptor
  • 800 Pro-RMK (all models) 795cc l/c– Interceptor
  • 850 Pro-RMK (all models) 840cc l/c– Interceptor
  • 800 RMK KHAOS 795cc l/c– Interceptor
  • 850 RMK KHAOS 840cc l/c– Interceptor
  • 550 RMK EVO/EVO ES 544cc f/c– Synthetic Injector Oil or Interceptor
  • 850 Rush Pro-S 840cc l/c– Interceptor
  • 800 Rush Pro-S 795cc l/c– Interceptor
  • 600 Rush Pro-S 599cc l/c– Interceptor
  • 800 SKS (all models) 795cc l/c– Interceptor
  • 850 SKS (all models) 840cc l/c– Interceptor
  • 550 Indy (all models) 544cc f/c– Synthetic Injector Oil or Interceptor
  • 550 Indy EVO/EVO ES 544cc f/c– Synthetic Injector Oil or Interceptor
  • 600 Indy/Indy XC 599cc l/c– Interceptor
  • 600 Indy Adventure 137 599cc l/c– Interceptor
  • 600 Indy SP 129/137 599cc l/c– Interceptor
  • 800 Indy XC 795cc l/c– Interceptor
  • 800 Indy Adventure 137 795cc l/c– Interceptor
  • 850 Indy XC 840cc l/c– Interceptor
  • 850 Indy Adventure 137 840cc l/c– Interceptor
  • 800 Titan XC/SP 155 795cc l/c– Interceptor
  • 800 Titan Adventure 155 795cc l/c– Interceptor
  • 550 Indy Adventure 144/155 544cc f/c– Synthetic Injector Oil or Interceptor
  • 550 Indy LXT/ LXT Northstar Edition 544cc f/c– Synthetic Injector Oil or Interceptor
  • 600 Switchback Assault 599cc l/c– Interceptor
  • 800 Switchback Assault 144 795cc l/c– Interceptor
  • 850 Switchback Assault 144 840cc l/c– Interceptor
  • 600 Switchback PRO-S 599cc l/c– Interceptor
  • 800 Switchback PRO-S 795cc l/c– Interceptor
  • 850 Switchback PRO-S 840cc l/c– Interceptor
  • 600 Switchback XCR 599cc l/c– Interceptor
  • 800 Switchback XCR 795cc l/c– Interceptor
  • 850 Switchback XCR 840cc l/c– Interceptor
  • 550 Voyageur 144/155 544cc f/c– Synthetic Injector Oil or Interceptor
  • 600 Voyageur 599cc l/c– Interceptor
  • 120 Indy 120cc a/c– Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports 0W-40

We can equip your Polaris snowmobile with the best synthetic oils on the market. Request a price list or submit questions using the form on this page or call us at 1-800-748-5781.

/by

2020 Ski-Doo Snowmobile Engine Oil Recommendations

2020 Ski-Doo Summit X

Photo Credit: Sledmagazine.com

Here are our oil recommendations for the 2020 Ski-Doo snowmobile line-up.

Ski-Doo’s product line sees modest changes for 2020. However, one of the big highlights is the revamping of Expedition line of touring/utility sleds. These models now ride on Ski-Doo’s top-shelf REV Gen4 chassis. Another interesting addition is the optional “Expert” package for the Summit X mountain sled. The Expert package is tailored for serious back-country powder carving.

There is an interesting Ski-Doo-related update regarding AMSOIL products. Ski-Doo now dictates that injector oils must meet the JASO FD oil standard for their E-TEC 2-stroke engines. AMSOIL Interceptor meets and exceeds the JASO FD specification. Therefore, the JASO FD spec has now been added to the Interceptor label.

Below is a list of the entire 2020 Ski-Doo snowmobile line along with the correct AMSOIL synthetic oil recommendation for each model and engine option.

AMSOIL Synthetic Products For 2020 Ski-Doo Snowmobile Models

AMSOIL Interceptor Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil For E-TEC Engines
Interceptor delivers all of the performance and protection offered by BRP 2T E-TEC Full-Synthetic Oil. However, Interceptor is available at a lower price (request a price list with the form on this page). Interceptor has been fully and thoroughly tested in E-TEC engines. Our customers have logged hundreds of thousands of real-world miles with Interceptor in E-TEC motors. The clean RAVE valves, exceptional performance and world-class protection leaves no doubt. AMSOIL Interceptor is the ultimate E-TEC injector oil.

AMSOIL Synthetic 2-Stroke Injector Oil
Why not replace XPS 2T Carb Premium Mineral Oil with full-synthetic injector oil at a lower price? AMSOIL Synthetic Injector Oil is perfect for any recreational or work snowmobile. It is even suitable for older Ski-Doo models with RAVE valves. Interceptor is our dedicated E-TEC oil, but this product can be used in any other Ski-Doo 2-stroke engine. AMSOIL Injector Oil delivers clean operation, outstanding performance and great wear protection at a value price. It can also be used as a premix.

AMSOIL Formula 4-Stroke 0W-40 Synthetic Oil
An upgrade over XPS 4T 0W-40 Synthetic Oil. Excellent for ACE 600 and 900 4-stroke engines. Designed for both turbo-charged and non-turbo engines. Pours down to -51°C (-60°F) for fast cold-start protection. Withstands extreme heat, heavy loads and long days in the saddle.

AMSOIL Synthetic Oil Recommendations For 2020 Ski-Doo Models

  • Freeride 850 E-TEC (137, 146, 154, 165) 849cc l/c- Interceptor
  • Summit Sport 600 Carb 597cc l/c- Interceptor
  • Summit SP 600R E-TEC 594.4cc l/c- Interceptor
  • Summit 850 E-TEC SP/X/X with Expert Package 849cc l/c- Interceptor
  • MX Z 600R E-TEC X/X-RS/TNT 594.4cc l/c- Interceptor
  • MX Z 850 E-TEC X/X-RS/TNT 849cc l/c- Interceptor
  • MX Z Sport 600 Carb 597cc l/c- Interceptor
  • Expedition Sport 550F 553.4cc f/c- Synthetic Injector Oil or Interceptor
  • Expedition 600R E-TEC LE/SE 594.4cc l/c- Interceptor
  • Expedition 900 ACE LE/SE/SWT/Sport REV Gen 4 900 899cc l/c- Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports 0W-40
  • Expedition 900 ACE Turbo LE/SE 899cc l/c- Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports 0W-40
  • Expedition 600 ACE Sport REV Gen 4 600cc l/c- Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports 0W-40
  • Grand Touring Limited 600R E-TEC 594.4cc l/c- Interceptor
  • Grand Touring Sport 600 ACE 600cc l/c- Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports 0W-40
  • Grand Touring Limited/Sport 900 ACE 899cc l/c- Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports 0W-40
  • Grand Touring Limited 900 ACE Turbo 899cc l/c- Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports 0W-40
  • Backcountry 600R E-TEC 600cc l/c- Interceptor
  • Backcountry 850 E-TEC X/X-RS (146/154) 849cc l/c- Interceptor
  • Renegade Sport 600 ACE 600cc l/c- Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports 0W-40
  • Renegade Sport 600 Carb 597cc l/c- Interceptor
  • Renegade 600R E-TEC X/Enduro/Adrenaline 594.4cc l/c- Interceptor
  • Renegade 850 E-TEC X/X-RS/Enduro/Adrenaline 849cc l/c- Interceptor
  • Renegade 900 ACE X/X-RS/Enduro/Adrenaline 899cc l/c- Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports 0W-40
  • Renegade 900 ACE Turbo X/X-RS/Enduro/Adrenaline 899cc l/c- Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports 0W-40
  • Skandic WT 550F 553.4cc f/c- Synthetic Injector Oil or Interceptor
  • Skandic WT 600 ACE 600cc l/c- Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports 0W-40
  • Skandic 600 H.O. E-TEC WT/SWT 594.4cc l/c- Interceptor
  • Skandic 900 ACE WT/SWT 899cc l/c- Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports 0W-40
  • Tundra 550F LT/Sport 553.4cc f/c- Synthetic Injector Oil or Interceptor
  • Tundra 600 ACE LT/Sport 600cc l/c- Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports 0W-40
  • Tundra Xtreme 600 H.O. E-TEC 594.4cc l/c- Interceptor

To sum up, we can outfit your Ski-Doo with the finest synthetic oils available. Request a price list or submit questions using the form on this page or call us at 1-800-748-5781.

/by

AMSOIL Releases New Upper Cylinder Lubricant Gasoline Additive

AMSOIL Upper Cylinder LubricantAMSOIL has released a brand-new gasoline additive for cars and trucks. AMSOIL Upper Cylinder Lubricant is an inexpensive additive that has three key functions.

What Does AMSOIL Upper Cylinder Lubricant Do?

First of all, this product provides lubrication to the very top end of the cylinder. Tight tolerances in engines can prevent adequate amounts of motor oil from reaching the very top of the cylinder. This product delivers a shot of lubrication by way of the fuel. It also lubricates fuel injectors and pumps.

Second, as Upper Cylinder Lubricant contains detergents, it also keeps fuel injectors and combustion chambers clean. This maximizes fuel mileage and performance.

Third, Upper Cylinder Lubricant contains powerful anti-corrosion ingredients. Most of today’s regular and mid-grade gasoline has ethanol content. Ethanol attracts moisture. This can promote corrosion inside your engine. This product neutralizes moisture and provides an anti-corrosion coating on engine parts.

What Are The Applications For New Upper Cylinder Lubricant?

This product should be used in gasoline engines in automotive/light-truck applications only.

It is not suitable for diesel engines or 2-cycle motors. It is also not intended for use in small engines or recreational motors.

Doesn’t AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver Already Provide These Features?

AMSOIL P.i. Gasoline Additive is a cleaner only. It does not provide the upper cylinder lubrication or the anti-corrosion features offered by Upper Cylinder Lubricant.

P.i. is an ultra-powerful fuel system cleaner that only has to be used every 4000 miles (6500 km). It is meant as a periodic cleaner or to clean exceptionally dirty fuel systems.

Upper Cylinder Lubricant is less than half the cost of P.i. It is an affordable product that can maintain fuel injector and combustion chamber cleanliness with every fill-up.

Great Choice For Gasoline Direct injection Engines

Gasoline direct injection (also known as “GDI”) engines are prone to severe combustion chamber and intake valve depositing. Regular use of AMSOIL Upper Cylinder Lubricant can prevent the formation of these carbon deposits. The occasional use of AMSOIL P.i. will also help to keep GDI engines very clean and running strong.

AMSOIL Vs. Lucas Vs. Sea Foam

AMSOIL commissioned independent testing to examine this product’s anti-wear properties. The testing compares AMSOIL versus Lucas Upper Cylinder Lubricant, Sea Foam Motor Treatment and straight regular gasoline. AMSOIL outscored Lucas by 18%, Sea Foam by 20% and stand-alone regular-grade gasoline by 21%.

AMSOIL Upper Cylinder vs. Sea Foam and Lucas

Where Can I Buy AMSOIL Upper Cylinder Lubricant?

We can sell this product in Canada and the United States. Oildepot offers wholesale programs that can bring you the best price. Request a price list using the form on this page.

/by

AMSOIL Releases New 5W-30 Motor Oil For Small Engines

AMSOIL 5W-30 Synthetic Small Engine OilAMSOIL has released a 100% Synthetic 5W-30 Small Engine Oil. This product is ideal for any utility or lawn/garden engine requiring a 5W-30 or straight-30 motor oil. This oil is suitable for small engines powered by gasoline, diesel, liquid propane or natural gas.

Why Did AMSOIL Make A 5W-30 Small Engine Oil?

This product joins 10W-30 and 10W-40 products in AMSOIL’s Small Engine Oil series.

Some small engine manufacturers (Honda comes to mind) suggest the use of a 5W-30 oil. Therefore, it makes sense for AMSOIL to have one in their line-up. With a cold-pour-point of -44°C (-47°F), this product is also the perfect oil for small engines that run in the winter.

Regardless of whether an engine is operated in extreme heat or cold, AMSOIL Synthetic 5W-30 Small Engine Oil will surely be a popular product.

How Is Small Engine Oil Different From Car Engine Oil?

Modern cars and light-trucks are equipped with all sorts of emissions sensors and devices. Some motor oil ingredients such as zinc can cause issues with these components. Therefore, modern automotive motor oils require a fairly sophisticated formulation approach. As small engines do not have emissions sensors and catalytic converters, AMSOIL is able to load this motor oil with anti-wear additives like zinc and phosphorus.

There is also another benefit to using this small engine oil over regular car motor oil. AMSOIL added significant anti-rust and corrosion ingredients that would not be found in automotive motor oils. Small engines are frequently stored for long periods. They may also be left outside or operate in wet conditions. This ability to prevent internal rust is a benefit to almost any small engine.

Highlights Of AMSOIL 5W-30 Synthetic Small Engine Oil

  • Suitable for a wide variety of small engines
  • Provides commercial-grade wear protection
  • Capable of staying in service for long intervals
  • Withstands extreme heat and heavy-loads
  • Delivers instant oil flow during winter start-ups
  • Resists oil consumption
  • Prevents deposit formation
  • Protects against internal corrosion during storage and operation in wet conditions
  • For small engines powered by gasoline, diesel, liquid propane and natural gas

Suitable Applications For AMSOIL 5W-30 Synthetic Small Engine Oil

  • Lawn and garden equipment
  • Snow blowers
  • Generators
  • Water pumps
  • Compactors
  • Mobile welders
  • Compressors
  • Pressures washers
  • Log-splitters
  • Masonry equipment
  • Skid-steers
  • Grain augers
  • And many more

Where Can I Buy AMSOIL 5W-30 Synthetic Small Engine Oil?

We can sell this new 5W-30 Small Engine Oil in Canada and the US. We have wholesale programs for individuals, commercial operators or retailers. Feel free to contact us for a price list using the form on this page.

/by

Comparing Harley-Davidson And AMSOIL Motorcycle Oil Filter Micron Ratings

AMSOIL Ea Motorcycle Oil FiltersA reader asks: I’ve been researching oil filters for my Harley-Davidson motorcycle. Harley-Davidson has oil filters that will stop particles down to 5 microns, while AMSOIL motorcycle filters only stop particles down to 20 microns. I thought that AMSOIL oil filters were supposed to be one of the better filters out there? Why are Harley filters so much better?

Our answer: The oil filter micron ratings provided by both AMSOIL and Harley-Davidson “Super Premium5” oil filters is like comparing apples to oranges. Each company is measuring their micron ratings on completely different scales. Therefore, the micron numbers are not at all comparable.

AMSOIL offers their motorcycle oil filter ratings on an “absolute” scale. Based on this measurement, their motorcycle oil filters are 98.7% efficient at stopping particles that are 20 microns in size or larger. This is a considered to be a very strong efficiency rating.

For reference, a decent automotive oil filter would stop 98.7% of particles 30 microns or larger.

Harley-Davidson provides their micron numbers on an “nominal” scale. Their nominal claim of “5-microns” with their “Super Premium5” oil filter is not telling the whole story. Filters makers claiming ultra-low nominal micron ratings aren’t mentioning the “efficiency”.

Let’s be clear. Harley-Davidson Oil Filters are definitely not removing 100% of particles down to 5-microns. This would make the oil filter so restrictive that it would go into by-pass mode every single time you rolled onto the throttle. Under most all riding conditions, that would be like having no oil filter.

What is the Difference Between “Nominal” And “Absolute” Oil Filter Ratings?

Absolute filter ratings are determined under controlled testing. The absolute filter rating is shown as 98.7% of particles of a stated diameter being stopped by the oil filter. In the case of AMSOIL Motorcycle Oil Filters, they stop 98.7% of particles measuring 20 microns in size or larger.

Nominal ratings such as the 5-micron rating touted by Harley-Davidson has zero meaning without mentioning efficiency. Chances are high that the H-D filters are about 50% efficient at 5 microns. Where a Harley 5-micron oil filter would score in an absolute filter micron test is anyone’s guess.

What Is a Micron?

A micron is a unit of measurement that is 0.001 millimeters or 0.000039 inches. For example, bacteria are 2 to 3 microns in diameter and a red blood cell is 5 microns. The diameter of human hair averages 70 to 80 microns.

Bottom Line

To sum up, Harley oil filters might be well-built and near the top of the heap. But it’s very hard to tell. The nominal 5-micron rating touted by Harley-Davidson has no meaning without mentioning efficiency.

/by

A Substitute For Mobil Epic 102 Grease?

AMSOIL Arctic Synthetic GreaseA reader asks: Do you carry an equivalent of Mobil Epic EP 102 Grease? This will be used in medium-duty worm drives in both extreme winter cold and summer.

Our answer: We believe that we have an upgrade over the semi-synthetic Mobil Epic EP 102 product.

A unique aspect of Mobil Epic EP 102 is that it has a relatively rare NLGI grade of “1.5”.

NLGI # 1 grease would traditionally be considered a winter grease, while NLGI # 2 grease is considered a summer grease. The vast majority of grease sold is NLGI #2. For most of the northern half of North America, an NLGI # 1 grease can be used year-round in all but the heaviest applications.

While we don’t offer a semi-synthetic NLGI #1.5 grease, we think that a full-synthetic NLGI # 1 product would actually cover a wider temperature range.

Our replacement for the semi-synthetic Mobil Epic EP 102 Grease would be the 100% synthetic AMSOIL Arctic Synthetic Grease. Don’t let the “Arctic” title fool you. This full-synthetic, extreme pressure (EP) grease is very capable for summer use. Its synthetic formula allows for complete four-season use.

A Full Synthetic Substitute For Mobil Epic EP 102 Grease

AMSOIL Arctic Grease has an operating range of -59°C to 157°C (-75°F to 315°F). The Mobil Epic EP 102 product has an operating range of -50°C to 150°C (-58°F to 302°F). The AMSOIL Arctic Grease has a slightly wider operating range.

When it comes to extreme pressure performance, the AMSOIL Arctic Grease outperforms the Mobil Epic EP 102 product. The “4-Ball Weld Test” measures the load carrying ability of a given grease. In this test, a steel ball is rotated under pressure against three other steel balls. The amount of weight required to seize this steel ball against the other three gives us the 4-Ball Weld Test number.

AMSOIL Arctic Synthetic Grease withstands the 4-Ball Weld Test until 400 kg of pressure is applied. Mobil Epic EP 102 Grease stops out at just 250 kg.

In conclusion, AMSOIL Arctic Grease is much more than just a “winter grease”. It has a wider operating temperature range and a much greater ability to withstand extreme pressure over Mobil Epic EP 102 Grease.

We can offer AMSOIL Synthetic Arctic Grease at wholesale in Canada and the US. Contact us for a price list using the form on the page

/by

Replacement Fluid For NV4500 Transmission?

AMSOIL Synthetic Manual Transmission and Transaxle Gear LubeA reader asks: I’ve got a Dodge Ram 3500 with the NV4500 5-speed transmission. I would like to change the fluid, but the Castrol Syntorq LT oil is (apparently) no longer available. The Mopar Synthetic Manual Transmission Lubricant is very expensive. Does AMSOIL offer a transmission fluid that is compatible with the NV4500’s carbon fiber synchro rings?

Our answer: Yes, we offer the AMSOIL Synthetic 75W-90 Manual Transmission & Transaxle Gear Lube (product code: MTG). MTG 75W90 meets the API GL-4 and Chrysler/Dodge/Mopar MS-9070 specifications. This product is fully compatible with the carbon fiber synchro rings found in the New Venture NV4500 transmission.

This is an elite-quality synthetic fluid that is readily available from our 11 warehouses is the United States and 2 warehouses in Canada. We sell AMSOIL MTG 75W-90 at a price that is generally much lower than the OEM NV4500 transmission oil found at Chrysler and GM dealerships. Contact us for pricing using the form on this page. 

Which NV4500 Fluids Will AMSOIL MTG 75W-90 Replace?

This AMSOIL Synthetic 75W-90 Manual Transmission & Transaxle Gear Lube replaces 75W-85 and 75W-90 fluids. It is a high-quality substitute for the following NV4500-compatible fluids.

  • Castrol Syntorq LT
  • Mopar 75W-85 GL-4 Synthetic Manual Transmission Lubricant (part # 4874459)
  • GM Goodwrench or AC Delco Synthetic Manual Transmission Fluid 75W-85 GL-4 (GM USA part #12346190, GM Canada part # 10953477)

About AMSOIL Synthetic 75W-90 Manual Transmission & Transaxle Gear Lube

  • Withstands extreme heat and heavy loads
  • Reduces friction for smooth shifts
  • Flows down to -65°F (-54°C) for excellent winter performance
  • Conditions seals
  • Safe for carbon fiber and brass components
  • Overbuilt for long service life
  • Available for immediate shipment at a great price

New Venture NV4500 Applications

The NV4500 was a popular manual transmission option in various Dodge/Ram 2500 and 3500 heavy-duty pick-ups from 1992 through 2005. The NV4500 was also found in various General Motors 2500 and 3500 pick-up trucks from 1991 to 2007.

Today, the aftermarket offers adapter kits that allow the installation of reconditioned NV4500 units in modern pick-ups, Jeeps and off-road vehicles.

/by