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Extreme Cold – No problem for AMSOIL Synthetic Engine Oils

Written by Ches Cain
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Start Your Winter Mornings – and Your Vehicle – with AMSOIL Synthetic Lubricants

John Baker |Jan 14, 2015 8:46:00 AM

Long before coming to work at AMSOIL, I owned an Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera that refused to start on below-zero mornings. I blamed it first on the battery and then on the car itself. “It must be a lemon,” I reasoned.

Cold Temperature Protection
Turns out it was probably the dirt-cheap conventional motor oil I used in those days. Unfortunately, there was no friendly AMSOIL Dealer in my neighborhood to teach me that conventional oils contain paraffins (wax) that can thicken in the cold enough to prevent the crankshaft from turning fast enough to start the car.

The Cold Crank Simulator (CCS) Viscosity Test is one method of testing a lubricant’s cold-flow properties. The test is used to determine the internal fluid friction in motor oils with a “W” grade designation. It measures the amount of energy required to overcome the resistance present in a lubricant that has been collected at temperatures from 23°F (-5° C) to as low as -31°F (-35°C), depending upon the anticipated SAE “W” classification of the oil being tested.

The CCS Viscosity Test simulates an engine’s ability to turn over at cold temperatures. Gauges monitor rotations per minute, amperage draw and motor input. A universal motor is run at a constant voltage to drive a rotor, which is closely fitted inside a stator and immersed in the test oil. The viscosity of the oil at the given test temperature determines the speed of the rotor and amperage draw; thicker oil results in slower speed and more amperage drawn. Speed and amperage drawn are then converted to centipoise (cP).

CCS results showing a lower cP number indicate lower viscosity. Oils that are thicker at low temperatures (high cP number) tend to exhibit more resistance and require more energy to pump and circulate and display a higher cP number on the CSS test. A higher cP number at a given temperature is directly correlated to a greater amount of energy required to turn an engine over, and it also indicates a greater potential for starting difficulties. Most importantly, CCS results suggest a lubricant’s ability to be circulated at a given temperature and its ability to provide wear protection.

As seen in the graph, AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil outperformed several leading synthetic motor oils in a CCS test.

AMSOIL versus others in cold flow properties

 

 

Solve oil starvation at start-up

Extreme cold can cause conventional motor oil, transmission fluid and gear lube to thicken, starving vital moving parts of necessary lubrication. In many cases, thick motor oil will prevent vehicles from starting. Cold, thick transmission fluid results in delayed or sluggish shifts and inadequate protection for bearings, valves and other critical parts. Thick gear lube, meanwhile, requires more energy to turn the gears, reducing fuel efficiency. Because gears and bearings in the axle housing are splash-lubricated, conventional gear lubes that are too thick at cold temperatures can starve internal components of lubrication, which can cause excessive wear and premature failure.

Conventional petroleum lubricants thicken because they often contain paraffins (wax). While modern refining techniques remove most of the wax from petroleum oil, some wax-like molecules remain. These wax-like molecules are soluble at ambient temperatures above freezing, but crystallize into a honeycomb-like structure at lower temperatures and cause circulation problems. At startup, this can leave working parts unprotected while the lubricant warms to a temperature that allows it to flow.

AMSOIL synthetic lubricants (http://oilordering.com/products/) do not contain paraffins, so they remain fluid in sub-zero temperatures. Watch the video to see what happens when AMSOIL Signature Series Synthetic Motor Oil (http://syntheticwarehouse.net/home/featured-products/signature-series-5w-30-synthetic-motor-oil) and a conventional oil are cooled to -40º. While the conventional oil fails to flow from the beaker, Signature Series remains fluid and delivers 36% easier and faster cold starts*. This means it can reach vital components faster, providing more immediate engine protection and reduced wear.

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Combat Cold Temperature Effects on Vehicles

Written by Ches Cain
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AMSOIL addresses cold weather issues – Results beyond expectations

Vehicle maintenance is an important part of preparing for winter months. Extreme winter weather can make breakdowns especially dangerous, and most people aren’t aware of the effect cold weather has on conventional lubricants.

Amsoil delivery carAn oil’s cold-temperature performance refers to its ability to flow when the engine is cold, or below typical operating temperature (212°F), and not simply to what feels cold to humans – warm summer days are also cold to an engine. Startup lubrication is directly affected by a lubricant’s cold flow ability, and the impact is felt at higher temperatures than most consumers would think. For example, in early 1991, General Motors halted sales of the Corvette ZR-1. Eight engines had seized at its Bowling Green, Ky. assembly plant. The temperature had only dipped to slightly below freezing and, at startup, hard-to-pump motor oil did not reach the front camshaft bearings and they were destroyed by lack of lubrication. GM responded by requiring the use of synthetic oil in the Corvette.
Note: We suggest for optimum results use the Signature Series products such as the 5W-30 for best performance. Our 100% synthetic technology compared to other “synthetics” has performance equivalent to a tune up or another expensive mod.

Motor Oil

Most engine wear occurs at startup. Cold temperatures can render oil so thick it cannot flow through narrow passageways to protect critical components, increasing wear. The paraffins in conventional oil only worsen the problem. AMSOIL synthetic motor oils contain no paraffin, remaining fluid in frigid winter temperatures (down to -63°F) for easier starting, improved oil flow and excellent bearing protection. Their unique synthetic formulations allow them to flow in extreme cold and maintain high film strength in extreme heat for outstanding all-season protection.

Transmission Fluid

Transmission fluids are also affected by cold temperatures. Since transmission fluid’s ability to flow does not directly impact a vehicle’s ability to start, cold-temperature transmission fluid performance is not foremost in the minds of consumers. It is affected, however, and does impact performance and wear. Automatic transmissions can shift harder in the cold, but changes in transmission performance brought on by cold temperatures are usually more pronounced for drivers who operate manual transmissions. As transmission fluid thickens in the cold, the synchronizers in manual transmissions cannot spin as quickly as they need to, which can severely impact the driver’s ability to shift until the fluid is warmed enough to provide proper flow – and protection.

AMSOIL transmission fluids are wax-free and deliver extraordinary cold-flow properties. They help improve shift response, energy efficiency and warm-up times.

Gear Lube

Gear lubricants with high viscosity at cold temperatures are less efficient and the gears require more energy to turn, resulting in reduced fuel economy. Gears and bearings in the differential and axle housing are splash-lubricated, and gear lubricants that are too thick at cold temperatures can starve internal components of lubrication, which can cause failure.

AMSOIL synthetic gear lubes’ wax-free construction improves cold-flow properties for maximum fuel economy and smooth cold-weather operation.

Diesel Fuel

As the temperature drops, the wax naturally found in diesel fuel begins to crystallize. The point at which wax crystals form is known as the cloud point. These wax crystals eventually clog the fuel filter and starve the engine of fuel, preventing it from starting. While low-quality fuels may form wax crystals in temperatures as warm as 40ºF (4ºC), most fuels have a cloud point near 32ºF (0ºC). The point at which the crystals clog the fuel filter is known as the cold filter-plugging point (CFPP).

AMSOIL Diesel Cold Flow lowers the CFPP by up to 20ºF (15ºC) in ultra-low-sulfur diesel fuel (ULSD). It uses a jet-fuel-type deicer that disperses water to control ice formation throughout the fuel system. AMSOIL Diesel Cold Flow inhibits wax crystal formation, allowing fuel to flow to the engine more easily and improving diesel engine reliability in cold temperatures. AMSOIL Diesel Recovery quickly liquefies gelled diesel fuel and thaws frozen fuel filters in engines that haven’t been treated with Diesel Cold Flow.

Visit the Sioux Falls AMSOIL motor oil store at 4610 W. 12th for the best lubricants found in this great city!

 

 

And for your Cooling System – Did you know?

AMSOIL Dominator® Coolant Boost significantly reduces engine warm-up times in cold weather. You can enjoy warm air from your vehicle’s heater faster on cold winter days by adding Coolant Boost to the radiator.

100% Synthetic, Amsoil Product Reports, For the Shop, Maintenance, Sioux Falls Motor Oil and Lube News, Uncategorized

AMSOIL SEMA Feature Vehicle of the Week: Project Buttercup

Written by Ches Cain
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Article by Jamie Jarvi – AMSOIL Inc.2011 Subaru Impreza STI flish with AMSOIL products

There’s something about Subaru that draws legions of fans to become lifetime enthusiasts of their rides. Maybe it’s because they are consistently a top-safety pick, or they come with features that make them capable of playing on any terrain. Whatever the reason, Subaru has a solid reputation and some of the most loyal brand followers to be found in the automotive realm. And when they set out to modify them, they often turn out to be some of the most head-turning and well-respected rides on the import tuner scene.

Chef Christopher Haydostian is the proud owner of a 2011 Subaru Impreza STI dubbed Buttercup. After making his purchase, Haydostian wasted no time in dressing up his ride with new mods and preparing for her entrance at SEMA 2011. Since then she’s steadily climbed the ranks to become one of the most highly-regarded Subarus on the scene, earning countless awards and becoming a fixture at SEMA since her debut. They’ll be back this year as a feature vehicle for XXR Wheels, this time with AMSOIL under the hood.

Read on to see what makes Buttercup so special, and how she landed a split second on the big screen in the epic tuner film Fast & Furious 7.

Congratulations on landing a spot at SEMA.
 Thank you! This will be the 4th year for Buttercup to make a trip to SEMA.  She has been both a Feature and Booth car since her creation.

Your 2011 Subaru Impreza STI is well-known in the Subaru community. Tell us a little about that and why it’s so recognized among your peers.
2011 Subaru Impreza STI featuring AMSOIL 5W-30Buttercup, my 2011 Subaru Impreza STI was one of the first 2011 Sedans built. She made her debut at SEMA 2011 and featured various new products and prototyped items. Since then, she has grown several times over. The most recognizable feature that Buttercup is known for is her Charge Speed Wide-body kit.  She was the 1st USA built Charge Speed Wide-bodied car. This was done with a partnership with Charge Speed Japan. Because of the rarity of the kit and uniqueness of it, she has grown very popular. Another reason why she is so recognized is that I show Buttercup all around the sport compact/import car show scene. She has shown as far north as San Francisco, as far south as San Diego, and as far east as Las Vegas. In all shows and in-between, Buttercup has been able to take some of the top awards in some of the most prestigious shows. Some of these awards are: Subifest (all Subaru Car show/event) Best of Show 3-years in a row, Spocom SoCal Best Subaru 3-years in a row, Spocom Norcal Best Import Other 2014 & Best Mitsubishi/Subaru 2015, Subaru Summer Solstice (All Subaru show/event) Best S3 Impreza (2013/2014) and Best of Show for 2015. These awards and more!

Is your vision complete or do you have more modifications planned?
 As with any project, they are never complete. As for Buttercup, she is still ever-evolving and changing. As new ideas arise, I’ll look at implementing them. Currently Buttercup is going under another small revision for SEMA 2015. This will be v4.5 for this project.

How did it come to be known as Buttercup?
My username handle is RTechChef. What most people don’t realize is, I’m an actual Chef by trade. Building cars and marketing them is a hobby and passion of mine. Because of my job, I am absolutely in love with food. Everything I name or project I build, I try to associate food with it. Since finding the name it has grown to mean multiple things. She is also known as Princess Buttercup (think Princess Bride) as well as the beast of a hero from the Power Puff Girls.  She has also been referenced to a horse character from another movie. However you slice it, she is my little Buttercup.

You’ve received several ‘Best of’ awards with Buttercup. Any standouts?
I achieved my first “Sword” award from Spocom-SoCal.I will never forget my 1st Best of Show award with Buttercup. It was 2013, Subiefest. Subiefest was known to be one of the largest all Subaru gatherings on the west coast. To be selected from a sea of Subaru’s is quite the honor. It’s one thing to compete for the Best Subaru award when there are 10 or so cars competing.  It’s another to be crowned the best in a sea of 100+. The second best standout is when I achieved my first “Sword” award from Spocom-SoCal. Spocom is considered one of the most prestigious shows in Southern California. Their special “Sword,” award handed out to the best of class, is a highly coveted award many try to achieve.  In the past 3 years I have been blessed to be crowned Best of Show at Subiefest (2013/2014/2015) as well as Best Subaru at Spocom-SoCal (2013/2014/2015). Although these 2 events and awards stand out to me, all awards I have been given are a true blessing.

Buttercup was part of the Fast & Furious 7 production in the Racewars scene. How did that come about and did it make the final cut?
Friends in the industry got a call from the production company of FF7. They contacted me and a few others to present our cars. With a sea of cars to choose from, Buttercup was one of the few selected.  I was commissioned to loan the car to the FF7 production team for 3 days of shooting. Unfortunately, due to my work schedule I was not able to be on site and actively drive and offer up my car for several portions of the scene.  There is about a 1-second clip of the front of Buttercup that you can see in the film. I haven’t seen the behind the scenes footage yet to see if she made any marks there. Working with and being selected by the production team is always an honor.  I also had the privilege to work on the first Fast & Furious with another project of mine (a 1994 Honda Accord).  Working within Hollywood is always a great experience.

How did it feel being part of such an epic tuner feature film series?
There is always a special feeling to be part of something that becomes a large part of our culture. To be a part of the first was amazing, but it was even more amazing to be a part of FF7 with the importance behind paying tribute to Paul Walker. Often times, it’s hard to imagine I was a part of the franchise and even harder to imagine the loss of an icon of our industry. Paul will forever be missed and I’m happy to know I was able to work with him even in my small capacity.

Do you have any previous experience using AMSOIL products?
To be honest, this will be my first time using AMSOIL in any of my projects. From what I’ve read and seen, I am quite impressed with the company and products. It is my hope that I can continue a strong working relationship with AMSOIL and continue to use their products for all future builds and projects.

If you were given the vehicle of your choice and unlimited funds to modify it to your liking, what would it be?
That is one of the toughest questions someone has ever posed. 2011 Subaru Impreza STI loaded with AMSOIL lubricants Being a true car fan, I am a fan of all brands/styles/years/ of cars. There are some “top” picks in various categories of cars.  So not to say just one, I’ll tell you about which ones of the categories I love. For an SUV – Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 (or HellCat version I hear is in the works). For a Wagon – Cadillac CTS-V Wagon (wish it was still made). For a Sport Sedan – I’ve always loved the BMW M5 and 4-dr GTR R34. For a Coupe – I’m a big fan of the Porsche Turbo, GTR, and Aston Martin DB9. For a Classic – a Ford ’32 Deuce is a dream car for sure. I know this doesn’t cover all lines, but hopefully gives you some idea of my passion.

Finally, tell us a quote or motto that describes you.
For those who know me, they will know that I always say, “Prepare for Otter Annihilation!”  It is my battle cry.

AMSOIL under the hood:

Signature Series 5W-30; Absolute Efficiency Oil Filter
Severe Gear 75W-90 Gear Lube
Pass. Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Engine Coolant
Dominator Coolant Boost
DOT-4 Brake Fluid; Multi-Vehicle Signature Series ATF
P.i. Performance Improver

 

Project Buttercup Sponsor Shout-Outs Continental Tires, Whiteline, XXR, X-Force Exhaust, Turbosmart USA, Snail Performance, Whistler, Deatschwerks. Also, a special thanks to my wife for her unwavering support.

Fun Fact: At more than 1.5 billion, only two films have grossed more than Fast & Furious 7 in the history of Hollywood. Fast & Furious 7 is third only behind Avatar (#1) and Titanic (#2).

 2011 Subaru Impreza STI cockpit

 

 

 

 

100% Synthetic, Amsoil Product Reports, From the Road, Sioux Falls Motor Oil and Lube News, Testimonial, Uncategorized

Industry Leading 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil

Written by Ches Cain
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This may have been the first blog post I should have written because the best seller of ours is also the one which sets the benchmark for the industry. Although the AMO 10W-40 was AMSOIL’s first product, the 5W-30 is certainly the most popular and of course the one which has had the most scrutiny.

AMSOIL’s Signature Series 5W-30 is one of the only 100% synthetic lubricants widely available on the market. Once you know about it and the finite details of it’s capabilities as a lubricant, problem solver and time saver there’s no turning back!!

Basic benefits include:

  • longer engine life
  • Unparallelled protection under the most extreme conditions (Saved repair costs).
  • Better fuel economy
  • Saved time (up to 25,000 mile intervals or 1-year)
  • Saved money – Less stops for service
  • Warranty Secure
  • Faster Warmups

The main feature of the Signature series line trumps all the benefits in my opinion and that is performance. You can actually tell a difference when running this oil over any of our competitors. The reason is simple.

100_0102Nothing is held back in the additive blend for this and other Signature Series products. This is why it’s the best in the industry. I’ll quote AMSOIL’s Vice President Dean Alexander, “When selecting additives and base stocks we are the only company who avoids making decisions based on cost. If there is a better product or a trend for something better AMSOIL is known in our industry to be the first to get it to the consumer with our legendary blending experience. That is our business, the business of being the best, not turning profits for share holders.”

You can print out the data sheet which follows this link to see the properties.

One particular use I suggest the ASL 5W30 (ASL is the product code to identify this product) is for older cars which you may not know the history of. Assuming the motor was at one point briefly overheated or for various reasons fuel made its way into the crankcase (in modern vehicles which run hotter than prior decades have more fuel dilution issues than ever before), you need to assume there are deposits. Deposits and the sludge which forms deposits become highly acidic when combined with moisture. This results in acids which are 1/3rd of the cause for engine wear. Only a high quality motor oil like AMSOIL’s Signature Series will neutralize this. There are varying quality levels of the additives. AMSOIL only uses the best performing additives and in this case we are talking about the detergent which unlike our competition, will fulfill it’s duty over that long oil change interval.

In that older or not-so-well maintained engine the AMSOIL Signature Series will halt the expansion of more deposits as well as halt the wear that has resulted from. The product will also significantly reduce the stress on components which the competing petroleum based synthetic or standard petroleum oil has caused. Of course our detergent based engine flush is recommended first to further allow our detergents to have more effect once the existing deposits are neutralized.

So if you can really push a new or good high performance engine to unheard of extremes using our motor oils, it’s really the cars & trucks you really depend on which need this. That 85 Chevy Caviler or Geo Metro can see another 100,000 miles just by adjusting your oil!

Great for high mileage engines. Actually all motor oils should be for high mileage engines but just knowing the fact that one manufacturer would make an oil strictly for that, one could assume the others are not and by that you could assume the oil’s detergents are not up to the task.

Another additive selected from a pallet of 20 or more quality levels is the seal sweller. Again, AMSOIL’s selection is based on the benefit to the customer and not the overall cost or profit margin. (No stockholders – AMSOIL is family owned)

To answer one of the most popular questions  – yes, you can use this in any age of motor. AMSOIL is developed so that no compatibility issues occur. The average customer who switched to our gasoline motor oils has about 130,000 miles.

As an AMSOIL dealer we are always excited to hear from our new customers after trying our top tier products. Their impressions serve them as lifelong customers!

Ches Cain

 

100% Synthetic, Amsoil Product Reports, high mileage engines, Sioux Falls Motor Oil and Lube News, Uncategorized