What to look for in VOAs...

[drewjp]

I'm not quite sure what distinguishes good oils from not-so-good oils by reading the VOA...

I know as much as Moly and ZDDP, but I don't know what either of them do...

Also, can someone please explain to me the difference between all the SM/SL/SJ ratings and what they mean??

Thanks a lot

 

[AndyH]

quote:

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Originally posted by drewjp:
I'm not quite sure what distinguishes good oils from not-so-good oils by reading the VOA...

I know as much as Moly and ZDDP, but I don't know what either of them do...

---

This page on Blackstone Lab's site will help a bit to explain the elements (although their explanations are more geared toward used oil analysis):
http://www.blackstone-labs.com/gasoline_diesel_report_expl.html

quote:

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Originally posted by drewjp:
Also, can someone please explain to me the difference between all the SM/SL/SJ ratings and what they mean??

Thanks a lot

---

Click on the link below for an API Service Category Chart (PDF format) which outlines those ratings:
http://api-ep.api.org/filelibrary/API_MotorOilGuide_2004.pdf

 

[GMorg]

As more and more of the additive package moves to "ashless" components, VOAs are less and less informative. Without insider information, comparing performance specifications or used oil analysis seems to be a better strategy for comparing oils.

 

[drewjp]

Thanks AndyH and GMorg!

That's exactly what I wanted to know!

 

[bruce381]

Gmorg Is 200% correct anyone that says this or that oil is WEAK or STRONG by using a simple VOA is way wrong.

bruce

 

[drewjp]

So in a used oil analysis, what levels of what would indicate a 'better' oil??

 

[bruce381]

lowest levels of WEAR metals

Fe
Al
Cu
Cr

etc.
bruce

 

[bruce381]

Example say you run XYZ oil 5w30 for 5,000 miles and do a used oil analysis and the Fe (iron) is say 100ppm.

Than you run ABC oil 5w30 for 5,000 miles and do a used oil analysis and the Fe (iron) is say 10ppm easy to see which oil is causeing LESS wear in your car.
bruce

 

[drewjp]

got it!

Thanks, Bruce!