VOA determining base stock

[ledslinger]

What would you look for in a VOA that would verify the tested oil is synthetic. I hear group II+ is really close to group III, so maybe it isn't possible to tell if the base stock is conventional or synthetic from a VOA.

 

[tig1]

It is my understanding that you can't determine base stock through a VOA or UOA.

 

[JHZR2]

+1. Not sure what magic insight would be gained either, beyond the false "value proposition" argument.

 

[tinmanSC]

You can't tell from a VOA. You can only tell what grade the oil is, a general feel of the additive pack, and some contaminants like moisture, insolubles, and fuel. A Group II, II+ and III would look identical in a VOA.

 

[Quattro Pete]

Originally Posted By: tig1
It is my understanding that you can't determine base stock through a VOA or UOA.

Well, at least not through a $20-$30 one.

 

[INDYMAC]

The viscosity index on a VOA or UOA can give you a pretty good idea where the base stocks fall (group).

 

[jorton]

Originally Posted By: INDYMAC
The viscosity index on a VOA or UOA can give you a pretty good idea where the base stocks fall (group).


Also, per the Lubrizol story at GF-5.com, volatility performance is dependent on base stock quality.