Wouldn't it be nice...oil specs...

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Nov 24, 2003
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Middle of Iowa
Thinking back to my hydraulic days. Wouldn't it be nice if engine OEM's just posted viscosity requirements and let the consumer decide on the oil.

I parroted this to customers so many times...

Use a premium hydraulic fluid, from a known named supplier.
Pick the viscosity that fits your application.
Vmin - 9 cST continuous, 6.4 cSt intermittent
Vmax - 110 cST continuous, 1000 cST intermittent
Operation best balance point between efficiency and wear is 12 cST

We do not approve nor endorse any specific fluid or specification.

I know there are fuel economy requirements, wet clutch requirements, emissions related concerns, low speed pre ignition, etc....but wouldn't it be nice? Do we complicate this whole thing too much?

I run a 5w-40 or 0w-40 in everything (boat gets 15w-40) except the Volvo which is new enough to not need a change yet. It fits what I was taught.
 
Years ago @Shannow suggested labeling with the HT/HS which is a better metric. That and the winter rating gives a good look into the oil behavior.

Some Mercedes-Benz approvals are skipping allowed grades which is a sensible omission.
 
Wouldn't it be nice if engine OEM's just posted viscosity requirements and let the consumer decide on the oil.
99% of consumers are content with the viscosity being in the owners manual, on the oil fill cap, or just letting someone else deal with it. The lawyers for companies would never approve what you want either.
 
Thinking back to my hydraulic days. Wouldn't it be nice if engine OEM's just posted viscosity requirements and let the consumer decide on the oil.

I parroted this to customers so many times...

Use a premium hydraulic fluid, from a known named supplier.
Pick the viscosity that fits your application.
Vmin - 9 cST continuous, 6.4 cSt intermittent
Vmax - 110 cST continuous, 1000 cST intermittent
Operation best balance point between efficiency and wear is 12 cST

We do not approve nor endorse any specific fluid or specification.

I know there are fuel economy requirements, wet clutch requirements, emissions related concerns, low speed pre ignition, etc....but wouldn't it be nice? Do we complicate this whole thing too much?

I run a 5w-40 or 0w-40 in everything (boat gets 15w-40) except the Volvo which is new enough to not need a change yet. It fits what I was taught.
Will never happen as long as conventional oil is available for sale.
 
But the public at large doesn’t want choice, they want easy and cheap. Costco, Sam’s, Aldi, and alike prove that. Low prices, bulk quantities, and a lack of options.

You want Maple Syrup? Here it is - the only one got - and it’s jumbo sized.

How about salad dressing? You like Ranch? Don’t answer that. Doesn’t matter. Cause that is what you are gonna get and you’re gettin’ two of them.

Motor oil? We got Kirkland, Kirkland, and uhhh Kirkland. Oh yeah, and M1 but it’s priced pretty high to get you to buy Kirkland.
 
Thinking back to my hydraulic days. Wouldn't it be nice if engine OEM's just posted viscosity requirements and let the consumer decide on the oil.

I parroted this to customers so many times...

Use a premium hydraulic fluid, from a known named supplier.
Pick the viscosity that fits your application.
Vmin - 9 cST continuous, 6.4 cSt intermittent
Vmax - 110 cST continuous, 1000 cST intermittent
Operation best balance point between efficiency and wear is 12 cST

We do not approve nor endorse any specific fluid or specification.

I know there are fuel economy requirements, wet clutch requirements, emissions related concerns, low speed pre ignition, etc....but wouldn't it be nice? Do we complicate this whole thing too much?

I run a 5w-40 or 0w-40 in everything (boat gets 15w-40) except the Volvo which is new enough to not need a change yet. It fits what I was taught.
What, I been doing it wrong my entire life. Following the owner’s manual or filler cap. I’ll have a talk with dad tonight 🤣

Following the manufacturer’s recommendation never hurt me any and I guess for those who haven’t hasn't hurt any either. Looks like we’re free to use whatever makes us sleep at night.
 
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