Oil weight, or viscosity, refers to how thick
or thin the oil is. The temperature requirements set for oil by the
Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) is 0 degrees F (low) and 210
degrees F (high).
Oils meeting the SAE's low temperature requirements have a "W" after the
viscosity rating (example: 10W), and oils that meet the high ratings have
no letter (example SAE 30). An Oil is rated for viscosity by heating it to
a specified temperature, and then allowing it to flow out of a
specifically sized hole. Its viscosity rating is determined by the length
of time it takes to flow out of the hole. If it flows quickly, it gets a
low rating. If it flows slowly, it gets a high rating.
Engines need oil that is thin enough for cold
starts and thick enough when the engine is hot. Since oil gets thinner
when heated, and thicker when cooled, most of us use what are called
multi-grade, or multi-viscosity oils e.g. 0W-40, 10W-30. These oils meet
SAE specifications for the low temperature requirements of a light oil and
the high temperature requirements of a heavy oil.
Here are some tips and tricks that may prove useful
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To remove tar and other road debris from automotive paint and chrome trim, try AMSOIL MP spray. It will not harm paint or metal trim. You can also use MP to dry wet electrical connections, it will displace moisture.
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It is not recommended that you let the oil drain for extended periods of time. Let it drain till it comes to a slow drip (5 minutes max) and then screw in the drain plug. Letting it drain for an extended period of time can cause the oil pump to loose its prime and result in an air lock. Its rare but has been known to occur in some engines.
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AMSOIL is compatible with conventional and synthetic motor oils. Mixing AMSOIL motor oils with other oils, however, will shorten the oil life expectancy and reduce the performance benefits. AMSOIL does not support extended drain intervals where oils have been mixed.
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Sometimes the oil filter can be installed too tight and cause the gasket to be deformed and leak or the filter can to be deformed. To prevent this, follow the filter manufacturer's recommendations. Never use a filter wrench to tighten a oil filter, only use your hands.
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Check your oil when the engine is cold for an accurate reading when using synthetics. If the engine is warm, allow ½ to 1 quart for hang-up. Synthetic oil clings so well to internal engine parts it can take several hours for it to all drain back down into the oil pan.
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AMSOIL Ea full-flow oil filters are designed for extended drain intervals. They stop smaller particles, flow more oil and last longer than regular filters. For best performance, use AMSOIL Ea full-flow oil filters. Remember the saying, "Your get what you pay for". A cheap filter is a cheap filter, they have to cut costs somewhere to sell at a low price and quality of materials and construction are where it is often accomplished. If you cannot find a AMSOIL Ea filter for your vehicle, AMSOIL recommends Wix, Donaldson or Mann filters. They are quality replacement filters you can rely on.
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Do not dispose of used oil and oil filters except at authorized collections centers in your area. If you do not know where they are, ask your dealer. He should be able to help you dispose of it properly.
