I'm looking for a simple explanation for the differences between major types of motor oil.
My understanding is that a higher oil weight (e.g., 30 weight vs. 20 weight) is a thicker, more viscuous product. Is this true? If so, what situation (or engine type) would warrant a higher weight oil?
With respect to the first number often associated with oils (e.g., 5W or 0W), my understanding is that this has something to do with its functional status at lower temperature. Is this approximately correct?
If an engine can run with either 20 or 30 weight oil, what would the implications be of using one type (e.g., 5W20 vs. 5W30) or the other?
Kent Kester
My understanding is that a higher oil weight (e.g., 30 weight vs. 20 weight) is a thicker, more viscuous product. Is this true? If so, what situation (or engine type) would warrant a higher weight oil?
With respect to the first number often associated with oils (e.g., 5W or 0W), my understanding is that this has something to do with its functional status at lower temperature. Is this approximately correct?
If an engine can run with either 20 or 30 weight oil, what would the implications be of using one type (e.g., 5W20 vs. 5W30) or the other?
Kent Kester