How much better are engine oils that far exceed API ratings?

[Al]

I have been discussion with a gentleman on my gr86 board. He contends that some oils barely meet API standards and others far exceed these minimum standards. I do agree with this. I realize this is the internet but he does claim to be in the know with his job in the oil blending business.

But my question was: can he specify an oil say in the "Top" 5% of quality oils that will definitely outperform oils in the "Bottom" 95%. I indicated that bitog members (as far as I know) are unable to point to an oil that is superior in say wear metals/1000 miles to other oils.

I do contend that it is hard to beat Amsoil. And even though RedLine is old school it (IMHO) is a great oil. Still not saying that these two oils are "superior"

 

[Rand]

I had something ruder written but reconsidered. In 22 years here do you really need to ask what is the best oil?
or just another stir the pot thread?

 

[walterjay]

What is the best oil? I wanna know

 

[Glenda W.]

 

[Slick3914]

I would just pour in some 20W-50 and call it good.

 

[cptbarkey]

Have you put Delo 10w30 in yet?

 

[tburke]

If you're looking for the best, it's gotta be from H-E-B, in a Texas-size pack.

 

[Al]

Have you put Delo 10w30 in yet?

Yes. Not sure I will do a UOA analysis on it bc, I almost have to get it changed at 5K. That only gives 2500 miles. I am planning to do 2 quarts of the Lucas 20W-50 mixed with that 0W-20 they put in.

 

[skyactiv]

Keep in mind non members might read this but most members here know better.
The best oil wont make up for faulty engineering and/or bad parts quality. Oil related engine wear is rare in well maintained engines. It's usually something else that does an engine in. Mobil as an example seems to be all over the map regarding oil----They have oils some think of as meh all the way to great.

 

[SubieRubyRoo]

Yes. Not sure I will do a UOA analysis on it bc, I almost have to get it changed at 5K. That only gives 2500 miles. I am planning to do 2 quarts of the Lucas 20W-50 mixed with that 0W-20 they put in.

After you try the Lucas, try the same experiment with an actual engine oil, and see what differences show up.

I wouldn’t use Lucas in my ex-wife’s car, even though I’m not paying for it. Plus, 20w50 in a modern, babied engine is beyond ludicrous. I’d wager the cost of 2 quarts that you won’t see any benefit at all in your usage.

Just run straight 5w30 and change at 5k. At least that way you know there won’t be any chemistry conflicts nor dilution of your good oil from pouring the Lucas into it.

 

[Passport1]

If it's really old what oil you use won't matter much. If it is brand new use this. My mother started me on it and my chassis has lots of miles now.

 

[wwillson]

But my question was: can he specify an oil say in the "Top" 5% of quality oils that will definitely outperform oils in the "Bottom" 95%.

I would rewrite the question to compare the "just barely meets" to the top 5%. Would there be a difference in wear for normal use? Not likely. Would there be a difference in engine cleanliness after 100k miles of normal use, sure.

 

[JRay’07]

The lubricant manufacturer doesn’t always disclose this information. Chevron does in the following example. Look at their performance claims for one particular product which exceeds the GF-6 standards.

 

[Sequoiasoon]

BITOG Bingo-
M1 0W-40

 

[Krieg]

I certainly understand the OP's point and thoughts. I know Amsoil, Redline, and High Performance Lubricants are a niche motor oil. Everyone is different and has to make a choice based on make, model, environmental conditions and specifications, just to name a few.

 

[userfriendly]

If you're looking for the best, it's gotta be from H-E-B, in a Texas-size pack.

View attachment 239138

Not according to Popeye the sailor man.

 

[4WD]

Keep in mind non members might read this but most members here know better.
The best oil wont make up for faulty engineering and/or bad parts quality. Oil related engine wear is rare in well maintained engines. It's usually something else that does an engine in. Mobil as an example seems to be all over the map regarding oil----They have oils some think of as meh all the way to great.

Not sure this site can define Mobil …

 

[4WD]

I certainly understand the OP's point and thoughts. I know Amsoil, Redline, and High Performance Lubricants are a niche motor oil. Everyone is different and has to make a choice based on make, model, environmental conditions and specifications, just to name a few.

And moments later Lucas is going in …

 

[4WD]

Slick 50!

With 0W20 blended with 25W40 - not telling the recipe

 

[4WD]

After you try the Lucas, try the same experiment with an actual engine oil, and see what differences show up.

I wouldn’t use Lucas in my ex-wife’s car, even though I’m not paying for it. Plus, 20w50 in a modern, babied engine is beyond ludicrous. I’d wager the cost of 2 quarts that you won’t see any benefit at all in your usage.

Just run straight 5w30 and change at 5k. At least that way you know there won’t be any chemistry conflicts nor dilution of your good oil from pouring the Lucas into it.

Or at least get a mixing plan from Triple_Se7en