SM vs. SL Motorcraft 5W-20

[ddellwo]

I just noticed that bottles of Motorcraft 5W-20 oil finally bear a true "SM" API stamp -- previously the bottles bore an "SL" stamp, with an added notation that the oil met "SM" service criteria.

Does anyone know if this change in labeling is the result of an actual reformulation of the Motorcraft 5W-20 oil, or if it's simply the result of lag time between receiving official "SM" certification from API?

 

[Ray H]

More likely the result of using up the last of the supply of "SL" labels. Keep in mind Ford was represented during the consultations, and meetings involved in determining the various testing parameters for establishing the "SM" category and the company signed on to the new category. used oil analysis of Motorcraft 5W-20 over the last year showed the very reduced phosphorus levels consistent with "SM" formulations. (Another reason I look forward to seeing a used oil analysis of TropArtic 5W-20 at some point, since both synthetic-blend "brands" are formulated and bottled by ConocoPhillips.)

[ January 17, 2006, 02:56 PM: Message edited by: Ray H ]