Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications Duratec Maintenance synthetic oil ?'s

Originally posted by Roz 1999 SVT-C:

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Originally posted by Alan Coles:

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Kevin, not only is it alright to use fully synthetic oil, it is preferable and better for your engine in cold weather. The primary benefit of fully synthetic oils in winter is that they don't thicken as much at low temperatures as dino oil and therefore provide better flow/lubrication at initial startup.

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That is a common misconception.....Oil weights are all EQUAL....a 5w 30 synthetic will be equal to a 5w 30 dyno oil. Main issue is that synthetic takes longer to degrade, hence the reason it seems like synthetic does not get thick.
But your, theory is incorrect.
But synthetics in general do offer better pertection than dyno oils. Lupe

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Hi Lupe, I do believe I'm correct in my thinking. Although if I'm wrong it certainly wouldn't be the first time. If I am, please explain where I've erred as I do like to learn.

I was not refering to the oil's weight (viscosity) specifically, but rather its ability to maintain it's specified vicosity under extreme conditions. In this case, the pour point (the temperature at which ASTM D-97 testing determines an oils ability to remain fluid).

I just came across this link below which, I think, illustrates my point quite well.
http://www.amsoil.com/performancetests/g1971/index.html
See the section: Pour Point (ASTM D-97) about halfway down the page.

After looking at it quickly, I can see that I'll need to read it a little more as it looks like Amsoil outperforms Mobil 1 in every test area. I may have to rethink my fixation on only using Mobil 1 in my cars.

I've never thought the main issue with synthetic oils was their extended life capabilities although that has now come more to the fore-front when people are looking for economy. Several manufacturers are now using 7,500 mile oil change intervals for conventional dino oil, and it's my understanding that lab testing has backed up their claims. That doesn't mean I'll follow suit, it's hard to teach an "old dog" new tricks. Racers aren't concerned about something lasting much longer than the race at hand, they need products that standup under the pressure of extreme loads and temperatures.

I used Mobil 1 up when I lived up north for it's superior flowing characteristics at low temperatures. I use it now in my turbocharged cars and any that see track time for synthetic's increased ability to retain it's viscosity under extreme shear loads and temperatures. It's not hard for turbos to run at 1,300+ degrees F .

Regards, Alan

PS - I just picked up the twin to your car (in looks) - 99 Black/Tan SVT to transplant my demolished 98's motor/trans/etc., into