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AMSOIL Synthetic 15W-40 Diesel Oil Field Study - Nordic Waste Refuse Hauler

AMSOIL Synthetic 15W-40 Diesel and Marine Oil delivers maximum performance, protection and cost savings for Nordic Waste's fleet of refuse haulers

In order to test the performance capabilities of AMSOIL Synthetic 15W-40 Heavy Duty Diesel and Marine Oil (AME), AMSOIL sought a partner with a fleet that operated in truly severe conditions. The perfect match was found in Duluth, Minnesota based Nordic Waste. Nordic Waste operates a fleet of 10 International refuse haulers, providing trash and recycling pickup to residential and commercial customers in the greater Duluth/Superior, Wisconsin region. Nordic's trucks operate in the bitter cold of sub-zero winters as well as on humid summer days that can top out at over 90 degrees F. In addition, Lake Superior's influence on the areas weather patterns can create extreme temperature swings just miles from the lake, something Nordic's trucks encounter regularly. The company's fleet runs 12 hours a day with frequent stops and redlined starts, all while hauling up to 22,000 lbs. of refuse and navigating the seriously steep hills of Duluth.

As if the geographic challenges aren't enough, perhaps the greatest strain these refuse haulers' engines face is dumping the refuse. This action requires the engine to remain near of above redline throughout the process and shakes the truck enough to nearly lift the front tires off the ground. Nordic's trucks dump their contents twice daily, challenging the oil's shear stability on a regular basis.

Navistar DT466

Nordic Waste was chosen to participate in this study not only because refuse haulers in general provide a severe operating environment for oil, but also because of the particular engine in the company's 2006 International 7400 rear loading truck. Notoriously hard on oil, the Navistar DT466 diesel engine is a 7.6L inline six-cylinder designed specifically for use in large, commercial International trucks. Nordic Waste initially installed Shell Rotella T 15W-40 (239 hours), and the oil was monitored through oil analysis for the duration of the drain interval. For the subsequent drain interval, Nordic installed AMSOIL Synthetic 15W-40 Heavy Duty Diesel and Marine Oil and monitored the oil's performance via oil analysis. Both oils' shear strength and TBN retention ability were examined using ASTM testing procedures. The subject truck maintained its usual operating procedure throughout the test period, and the same driver operated the truck on the same route the entire time. AMSOIL used the oil analysis results from the initial drain interval, the subsequent drain interval and a thorough teardown and inspection by an independent, certified International mechanic to evaluate the performance of AMSOIL Synthetic 15W-40 Diesel and Marine Oil.

HEUI

The Navistar DT466 engine employs a hydraulically actuated, electronically controlled unit injector (HEUI) system that uses engine oil pressure to run the fuel injectors. The HEUI system was designed to produce lower combustion noise and reduce hydrocarbon and nitrous oxide levels during combustion, offering quieter, cleaner diesel engine operation. HEUI systems feature a variable pump (in addition to the oil pump) that pressurizes the oil according to the fuel injection system's needs, placing a considerable amount of additional strain on engine oil. HEUI systems can raise oil pressure to as much as 3,500 psi, creating great potential for shearing and adding significant stress to motor oil that is already operating in a severe environment. The HEUI system's reputation for shearing less robust motor oils made the DT466 engine the perfect choice for testing the durability of AMSOIL Heavy Duty Diesel and Marine Oil.

983-HOUR DRAIN INTERVAL

Used Oil Analysis

Wear metal levels were tracked through oil analysis for the duration of the drain interval. As the results reveal, AMSOIL Diesel Oil contained wear metals well below International's published condemnation limits, even after more than 900 hours of use.

Figure 1 displays the accumulation of copper wear particles in AMSOIL Synthetic Diesel and Marine Oil over 983 hours. Due to the extreme environment created by the HEUI system, the condemning limit for copper levels in the DT466 engine is 60 parts per million (ppm). Even after 983 hours of use, AMSOIL 15W-40 Synthetic Diesel and Marine Oil contained only 7 ppm of copper. The HEUI system's tendency to cause oil shearing thins out lesser oils at normal operating temperatures and increases the likelihood for abnormal engine wear. As the results demonstrate, AMSOIL Synthetic 15W-40 Diesel Oil provided outstanding shear stability for the duration of the 983-hour drain interval.

Figure 2 charts the rate at which iron wear particles developed. Once again, the extraordinary demand the engine's HEUI system places on engine oil results in a low condemnation limit of 200 ppm of iron. Even after 983 hours of use, AMSOIL 15W-40 Synthetic Diesel and Marine Oil contained less than 100 ppm of iron.

Figure 3 details the accumulation of lead particles over the drain interval. The condemnation limit for lead content is 60 ppm. A sudden spike in lead levels or levels that approach the condemning limit indicate an abnormal wear situation and can indicate the need to drain the oil. AMSOIL 15W-40 Synthetic Diesel and Marine Oil maintained consistently low lead levels throughout the 983-hour drain interval, never going above 12 ppm.

Maximum Durability

AMSOIL Synthetic 15W-40 Diesel and Marine Oil maintained exceptional lubrication properties for the duration of the 983-hour drain interval. It maintained viscosity better than Shell Rotella T did, measuring 12.33 centistokes (cSt) when drained. Shell Rotella T, on the other hand, measured 10.17 cSt after its 239-hour oil drain interval. AMSOIL Diesel Oil demonstrated superior shear stability over an extended drain interval, even in severe service.

Figure 4 shows kinematic viscosity of Shell Rotella T and AMSOIL Diesel and Marine Oil for the duration of their respective drain intervals. The trend line for a high quality motor oil should remain relatively flat for the entire service period. AMSOIL 15W-40 Synthetic Diesel and Marine Oil shows a stable trend over the extended service period, well beyond the OEM recommended drain interval.

Superior Corrosion Protection

An oil's ability to maintain corrosion protection throughout its service life is measured by Total Base Number (TBN). AMSOIL Synthetic 15W-40 Diesel and Marine Oil is formulated with a high 12 TBN to ensure corrosion protection from combustion blow-by and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) for the life of the oil. AMSOIL Diesel Oil displayed excellent TBN retention ability for the entire 983-hour drain interval.

Figure 5 shows TBN results for AMSOIL Synthetic 15W-40 and Rotella T for the duration of their respective drain intervals. TBN levels and hours of service have an inverse relationship; as hours increase, TBN decreases. It is important that the slope of the TBN line is gradual and spans the life of the lubricant. A sharp downward trend indicated poor protection, which, if not addressed, can result in piston deposits and ring sticking. AMSOIL Diesel Oil's performance in the TBN test is in line with how a high quality oil should perform. It maintains TBN levels to effectively neutralize acidic by-products of combustion and keep engine components free of deposits and corrosion.

ROUTINE ENGINE TEARDOWN

At approximately 8,000 hours of use, Nordic Waste brought its International 7400 refuse hauler to certified International Truck mechanic Dan Lee for a routine teardown. Lee, who specializes in the DT466 engine, examined the pistons, rings, wrist pins and bearings, while the top and bottom cylinder (bore) diameters were measured by PDQ Engine and Machine in Duluth, Minnesota.

Deposit-Free

Figure 6 shows the subject truck's valvetrain. The valvetrain is typically prone to varnish and sludge deposits on non-moving parts and valve springs. Sludge and varnish buildup appears as a thick, dark residue. Many times, sludge is baked into a hard-to-remove carbonaceous consistency associated with an engine lubricant being overloaded with insolubles. AMSOL 15W-40 Synthetic Diesel and Marine Oil's robust additive package and high TBN kept the DT466 cyclinder head and valvetrain free of deposits and sludge.

Reduced Wear

Figure 7 shows one of the cylinder liners from the DT466 in Nordic's truck. Lubrication is essential for the bore to remain operational. If sufficient lubrication is not provided, excess heat may cause thermal expansion, which can force the cylinder out of round and significantly increase the potential for wear. After nearly 8,000 hours of operation, the OEM cross-hatch pattern in the cylinder is still evident, demonstrating AMSOIL Diesel Oil's excellent wear control in spite of the extreme shaking, jarring and revving the motor is subjected to on a daily basis. Though it is slight, the most wear occurred at the top dead center of piston movement, where there is only light oil film lubrication. Figure 8 shows top and bottom bore measurements along with the OEM specifications. Measurements for the sixth cylinder were unavailable as International Truck retained that sample for their records.

Piston cleanliness in this engine was representative of an engine that had accumulated far fewer hours. In fact, Lee indicated that each piston was suitable for continued use. AMSOIL Synthetic 15W-40 Diesel and Marine Oil resisted oxidation and volatility to allow minimal carbon deposit development between compression rings, on the crown and inside the ring land area. Conventional lubricants can allow unnecessary carbon buildup in these areas, which can cause piston ring sticking and unnecessary wear. After nearly 8,000 hours of service, the piston rings and skirts in Nordic's truck measured within OEM specifications for a new DT466 engine.

Figure 8 shows the top and intermediate piston ring measurements. Piston rings are measured by determining the gap in each ring. As piston rings experience wear, additional room for ring expansion is created, widening the ring gap. Lower measurements equate to less wear, yet any measurement within OEM specifications is equivalent to rings when new. All of the top piston rings were still within International specification limits for new engines, with an average measurement of 0.015 inches. All of the intermediate rings but one measured 0.074 inches, which is within International specifications. Since all of the other rings had identical measurements, it is possible that the ring that was out of specified limits had been so since it was installed. Figure 9 shows ring locations.

Figure 10 shows Lee measuring a piston skirt in order to determine the amount of wear that had occurred. Skirt measurements are determined by measuring the outer diameter of the piston, halfway between the crown (top) and base. The diameters of each piston skirt from Nordic's truck were identical, measuring 4.585 inches (see Figure 8). The piston skirts showed no measurable wear and were within International specifications for a new DT466 engine.

Figure 11 shows an example of the piston skirt and crown from Nordic's DT466. Lee indicated that piston cleanliness was similar to engines that had accumulated significantly less hours and were suitable for continued use. None of the pistons showed any signs of abnormal or visual wear.

Figure 12 shows one of the wrist pins from Nordic's truck. Extreme force in the combustion chamber transfers the load directly to the wrist pin, creating the need for a durable, shear stable oil in order to prohibit metal-to-metal contact. The wrist pins from the Nordic Waste truck measured within OEM specifications. No flat spotting occurred and, even after daily severe service over extended drain intervals, the wrist pins' measurements were similar to when originally pressed into the piston by the engine manufacturer. (See Figure 8 for measurements.) Higher measurements equate to less wear because as wear occurs, wrist pin diameters are reduced. AMSOIL 15W-40 Synthetic Diesel and Marine Oil's superior film strength delivered exceptional protection in this severe environment, effectively preventing component wear.

Figure 13 shows the bearings from Nordic's DT466 engine. No copper lining or discoloration was evident on the bearings, proving that very little wear occurred. They were very clean and showed insignificant levels of pitting in the bearing surface. According to Lee, each bearing was in good condition and showed wear levels consistent with those of a light-duty engine receiving four times as many oil changes.

"The lack of copper showing on the bearings proves minimal wear has occurred," said Lee. "For the hours on this unit, these bearings look very good. If it weren't for the routine maintenance interval requiring replacement, these bearings are still in good enough condition to be reused." Lee attributed the minor wear on the bearings to break-in wear when the engine was new. "What little wear was evident on the bearings was from engine break-in and the bearings look far better than many I have seen," said Lee. Engine bearings cannot be measured without the piston rods and end caps, which were put back into the motor prior to Lee's inspection.

USE OF AMSOIL DIESEL OIL SAVES MONEY

Nordic's Experience With Conventional Oils

Between the unique climate and geographic challenges, the HEUI system, constant use of the truck's hydraulic applications and regular near redline operation, Nordic Waste's trucks provide a serious challenge for any motor oil. In fact, it was Nordic's search for an oil that could withstand the punishment doled out by its vehicles every day that led the company to AMSOIL.

"With the big hills, high heat and extreme cold we work in, nothing has performed better," said Nordic Waste Owner Brian Johnson. Johnson noted that Nordic Waste had installed other diesel oils in its trucks, including Shell Rotella T, but none were able to provide the level of protection offered by AMSOIL Diesel Oil. Prior to discovering AMSOIL, the conventional lubricants Nordic used would shear out of viscosity grade rapidly and need to be changed at approximately 200 hours of service. Upon switching to AMSOIL Synthetic 15W-40 Diesel and Marine Oil, Nordic Waste increased the average drain interval for its trucks from approximately 200 hours to nearly 1,000 hours.

Extreme Temperature Performance

The extreme temperatures faced in the Duluth/Superior region place great strain on Nordic's fleet. Winter temperatures dropping below -30 degrees F are not unusual, so cold starts and hydraulic functions are especially sensitive areas for Nordic Waste.

"Cold starts were a primary concern for us," said Johnson. "Even though we use block heaters in the winter, you never know when you might come to work and find that the breaker tripped or a driver forgot to plug in the truck the previous evening." Nordic's drivers begin their day around 3:30 a.m., so there is no time for troubleshooting or engine repairs prior to beginning their routes. The cold start issues plagued Nordic Waste for nearly six months out of every year, until the company switched to AMSOIL products.

"With conventional lubricants, when trucks weren't plugged in, starting would be difficult, if even possible, and even if the trucks turned over, engine protection would be minimal because no oil pressure would appear on the gauge," said Johnson. The test truck's operator, Wayne Carlson, noticed the difference with AMSOIL Diesel Oil right away. "The truck has excellent performance in winter," said Carlson. "It fires right up without being plugged in and there is instant oil pressure with AMSOIL. In trucks I have driven using conventional lubricants, it could take more than a minute to build any oil pressure when cold, providing little engine protection." AMSOIL Synthetic 15W-40 Diesel and Marine Oil is formulated to provide exceptional cold temperature performance. Its cold flow properties have saved Nordic Waste time and money, and delivered peace of mind with the knowledge that the company's trucks will start on even the coldest winter morning.

AMSOIL Diesel Oil Saves Money

Use of AMSOIL Synthetic 15W-40 Diesel and Marine Oil, along with oil analysis, has allowed Nordic Waste to extend its trucks' oil drain intervals to nearly 1,000 hours - four times the length of service possible when using Shell Rotella T. Nordic's trucks are well protected and experience optimum fuel economy, so they stay out of the shop and on the road.

"We experience less downtime and have seen reductions in costs associated with engine overhauls and replacements parts," said Johnson. Refuse haulers are very expensive, so maintaining spare trucks is not affordable for a small company. Operating with a minimal number of trucks requires maximum uptime to ensure customers are serviced properly. By delivering superior protection over extended drain intervals and improving engine reliability, AMSOIL Synthetic Diesel and Marine Oil provides Nordic Waste consistent dependability and reduced maintenance (increased uptime). Increased uptime has helped Nordic Waste maintain an accurate schedule and provide excellent customer service - trucks are more readily available for routes when they aren't in the shop for service. In addition to improving the company's operations, extended drain intervals save Nordic a considerable amount of money annually.

"We buy significantly less oil, fewer filters and we experience lower labor costs," said Johnson. "Our biggest savings have been the reduced number of engine overhauls and replacement parts."

Use of AMSOIL Synthetic 15W-40 Diesel and Marine Oil saves Nordic Waste thousands of dollars in oil alone, in addition to reduced expenses for labor, filters and waste oil and used filter disposal. Figure 14 shows the annual savings realized by converting one truck to AMSOIL Synthetic Diesel and Marine Oil. AMSOIL Diesel and Marine Oil is installed in all 10 of Nordic Waste's trucks, providing an annual savings of $3,963.60* in oil costs alone.

Environmental Benefits

Use of AMSOIL Synthetic 15W-40 Diesel and Marine Oil helps Nordic Waste reduce its environmental impact, something that's important to a company that provides recycling services. Nordic's extended drain intervals have reduced the amount of oil the company disposes of by up to 75 percent. In addition, AMSOIL Diesel Oil's superior thermal resistance helps it effectively resist volatilization (burn-off) better than conventional oils. "This truck hardly ever consumes oil; less than one quart per oil change, which is very good compared to oils in other trucks I have driven," said Carlson.

Conclusion

AMSOIL Synthetic 15W-40 Diesel and Marine Oil provides superior performance in the harsh environment faced by refuse haulers. Through oil analysis, Nordic Waste has been able to safely extend the oil drain intervals in the company's fleet to more than four times the drain intervals possible using Shell Rotella T. In this field study, AMSOIL Diesel Oil demonstrated excellent wear protection for the entire 983 hour drain interval. Its TBN retention was excellent, it provided exceptional corrosion protection and minimized sludge formation, as evidenced by the absence of corrosive areas or sludge buildup on engine components during the routine teardown. AMSOIL Synthetic Diesel and Marine Oil prevented soot thickening, resisted oxidation and minimized wear. It also maintained proper viscosity for the duration of the 983 hour drain interval in spite of the severe operating environment and HEUI injection system. Adversely, Shell Rotella T 15W-40 sheared out of viscosity grade rapidly, requiring an oil change after only 239 hours of service. Nordic Waste's use of AMSOIL Synthetic 15W-40 Diesel and Marine Oil has improved the fleet's performance and longevity, and reduced the company's maintenance costs. AMSOIL Diesel Oil saves Nordic Waste a significant amount of money annually.

AMSOIL Refuse Hauler Fleet Field Study Brochure Now Available

The refuse hauler field study is covered in greater detail in the AMSOIL Refuse Hauler Fleet Field Study Brochure (G2695). Eight pages and full color, this brochure shows the advantages of AMSOIL Synthetic Diesel Oils

Why is AMSOIL Synthetic Oil Better?

Watch this Informative Video

AMSOIL 5W-40 Synthetic Premium Diesel Oil Provides Valuable Cost Savings

Economic difficulties and high fuel costs have forced a significant number of trucking companies out of business over the last few years, while many others fight for survival by finding any and every way possible to minimize costs. More efficient operation can be achieved in a number of ways, including engine, truck and trailer design; drive line technology; tire design and fuel quality. Drivers can also play a critical role by reducing engine idle time and speed, while employing more efficient shifting patterns and driving techniques.

Although lubricants are often overlooked as a way to improve efficiency and minimize costs, use of AMSOIL 5W-40 Synthetic Premium Diesel Oil (DEO) over conventional 15W-40 oils presents fleets with an effective way to reign in costs without sacrificing protection. In fact, industry tests demonstrate a 1 percent fuel economy improvement by switching to 5W-40 diesel oil, while the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Federal Test Procedure confirms that AMSOIL 5W-40 Synthetic Diesel Oil provides up to 3 percent better fuel economy than conventional 15W-40 diesel oils (1.6 percent improvement at a mix of 55/45 city/highway driving).

For example, a single truck traveling an average of 120,000 miles per year and receiving an average of six miles per gallon consumes 20,000 gallons of fuel a year. At a price of $3 a gallon, annual fuel costs for this single truck are $60,000. By switching from a conventional 15W-40 diesel oil to AMSOIL 5W-40 Synthetic Premium Diesel Oil and achieving a 1.6 percent fuel economy improvement, the truck reduces its annual fuel usage by 320 gallons, saving $960. The savings mount when extended to larger vehicle fleets. A 50-vehicle fleet saves $48,000 in fuel costs, while a 100-vehicle fleet saves $96,000. (read more)

AMSOIL 5W-40 Synthetic Diesel Oil Offers Maximum Viscosity Protection

Hard working diesel engines present a serious challenge to the lubricants that protect them. Tight clearances and intense pressures can generate enough force to tear apart the molecular structure of the oil, causing permanent viscosity loss. Permanent viscosity loss is termed "shear" and leads to accelerated equipment wear and oil consumption.

Shear stability measures a lubricant's ability to withstand shear forces without degrading to a lower viscosity. To meet CJ-4 requirements for shear stability, the American Petroleum Institute (API) requires diesel oils to pass the Kurt Orbahn 90-Cycle Shear Stability Test.

Resisting shear and maintaining protective viscosity in the harsh operating conditions of diesel engines is challenge enough for many diesel oils, but maintaining viscosity in the face of fuel dilution is another challenge altogether. Factors such as frequent starts, excessive engine idling, short trips and cold weather have contributed to moderate levels of fuel dilution in diesel applications for years, while recent issues with emission systems have brought the fuel dilution problem to a whole new level. (read more)

AMSOIL 409,000-Mile Oil Drain Interval Mack Engine Teardown

After 409,000 miles without an oil change, the AMSOIL-protected Mack E7-400 engine in this truck was as wear-free as an engine in comparable service treated to TWENTY TIMES the oil changes.

COLONIAL HEIGHTS, VIRGINIA - "I didn't see any surprises in there at all. Based on my experience with AMSOIL Motor Oil, it came out the way we expected," said owner/ operator Haywood Gray (left) of his 1990 Mack E7-400 engine. It came out in good shape, exactly what you'd expect for a well-maintained engine with 630,000 miles. Yet the engine's oil had not been changed for 409,000 miles!

Gray began using AMSOIL Synthetic Heavy-Duty Diesel and Marine 15W-40 Motor Oil (AME) in the E9-400 V-8 engine of his first truck, a 1984 Mack, after the engine accumulated 45,000 miles. For 280,000 miles, Gray changed his oil at 40,000-to 60,000-mile intervals though his oil analysis reports showed, without exception, that the oil was good for continued use. At 325,000 miles, Gray increased his oil drain interval to 100,000 miles. The engine was torn down at 600,000 miles when Gray decided to sell the truck. (read more)

Dodge Dually Surpasses 633,000 Miles With AMSOIL Lubes

Brad Walthour of Sunbury, Ohio speaks from experience when he talks about the qualities and benefits of AMSOIL lubes and filters.

"I rely solely on AMSOIL products to protect my investment in a wide range of outside temperatures on various and challenging terrain," Walthour said. He uses AMSOIL Cold Flow Improver during the cold months. "The fuel has never gelled," he said. "The engine and transmission have never been dismantled, rebuilt or replaced." He averages 26 mpg an 55 miles per hour when he's not towing anything and 11.5 to 14 mpg when towing. He calculates his oil change savings with AMSOIL products to be $300 a year, which doesn't include the added protection against wear and extreme temperatures. (read more)

Truck Driver Takes Big Savings to the Bank Using AMSOIL Products

Terry Anderson Jr. of Chesapeake, Virginia saves money, time and fuel using AMSOIL products.

In fact, he saved $5,679 the first year he switched to AMSOIL lubes, filters and additives.

TAKING SAVINGS TO THE BANK - Terry Anderson with his 2005 Peterbilt dump truck. Anderson reports savings of $5,679 in one year using AMSOIL lubes and filters.

Anderson, owner of Terry Anderson Jr. Hauling Inc., owns and operates a 2005 Peterbilt dump truck with a Cat C-7 engine. He first installed AMSOIL 15W-40 Synthetic Heavy Duty Diesel and Marine Motor Oil and an AMSOIL Ea Oil Filter in the truck. About a month later, he installed an AMSOIL By-Pass Filtration System.

"Initially, I was concerned about the upfront cost of about $400, but soon found out it was money well spent," he said.

Used oil analysis at 10,000 and 25,000 miles deemed the oil suitable for continued use, and he continued to run on the same oil.

"I changed my full flow filter after the second sample was sent in," Anderson said. "The money I saved on oil alone in the first 25,000 miles paid for the by-pass filter system." At one year, and more than 50,000 miles on the same oil, a third oil analysis reported the oil good for continued use. "The savings in the oil changes alone is enough to justify using AMSOIL and the by-pass filter system," Anderson said. "More surprising was the increased fuel efficiency I saw on a daily basis."

He typically changes the oil in the Peterbilt four or five times a year at $159 each change. "That is $759 a year." He said. "I didn't have to get my hands dirty changing the oil at all for a year thanks to AMSOIL and the by-pass filter system."

Anderson also realized increased fuel efficiency. "After changing my Peterbilt over to AMSOIL lubricants and filters, I saw an increase in my fuel efficiency of one mile per gallon," he said. His fuel efficiency increased again when he used AMSOIL Diesel Concentrate and Cetane Boost. "MPG is huge in my world," Anderson said. "The more miles I can go on one gallon, the more money I put in the bank."

With diesel fuel prices being so high, AMSOIL lubricants, filters and additives have saves Anderson's company about $30 a day in improved fuel efficiency.

Savings he realized in the first 15 days with AMSOIL products paid for his initial investment, Anderson said. "The remainder of the year that $30 a day went straight to the bank along with the savings from the extended drain intervals." (see savings chart)

Trucker Saves Thousands with AMSOIL

Blake Thompson is one happy trucker - in front of his first tractor trailer that he switched over to AMSOIL products.

Blake Thompson is one happy trucker.

Using AMSOIL products in his diesel engines saved him $5,000 in fuel costs in one year.

In 2006, Thompson was a diesel mechanic in Fortville, Indiana when he fist became familiar with AMSOIL products. Thompson had a dream of owning his own trucking company.

In November 2007, Thompson bought his first diesel tractor - a 1999 International with an M11 Cummins engine, an Eaton 4-9 transmission, five low-range gears, four high-range gears and a twin screw (two differentials) rear-end. "It was in beautiful shape with 580,000 original miles," Thompson said.

Thompson is now a local hauler with two trailers. He uses one for hauling wood products - sawdust and wood chips, and the other for agricultural products, including corn and soy beans. The truck and tractor have a maximum gross weight of 80,000 pounds.

Thompson had his truck for only a short time before he switched to AMSOIL. With 590,000 miles on his tractor, he signed on the dotted line to become a commercial account. He purchased AMSOIL Engine Flush (AEF) and twin packs of AMSOIL 15W-40 Heavy Duty Diesel and Marine Oil (AME).

Thompson said he is more than happy he switched to AMSOIL products. He reports that while towing his hopper trailer his fuel mileage increased from 5.5 to 6.0 miles per gallon. While towing his walking floor trailer the fuel mileage increased from 6.0 to 6.5 miles per gallon.

Oil analysis at 10,000 and 20,000 miles showed the oil was "good for continued use." Typical oil drain intervals for the big diesel engine is 20,000 miles.

Thompson was spending $75,000 a year on fuel. After investing $500 in AMSOIL products, he is spending $69,500 a year on fuel. That's a savings of $5,000 per year!

Thompson is considering using oil analysis to extend his oil drain intervals even further, but Thompson said he is so happy about the fuel savings that he is satisfied changing the oil at his current drain intervals.

Thompson also uses AMSOIL Synthetic 5th Wheel Grease (GFW) "because it goes on easy and stays where you put it." He can also see the difference in the spring shackles and king pins with AMSOIL Synthetic Heavy Duty Grease (GHD). Thompson says he used to have to pump several pumps, with brand X grease, before the grease started squeezing out. Now when he starts to pump the grease gun, the grease immediately starts to squeeze out of the joints. "That shows that the AMSOIL Heavy Duty Grease stays where you put it."

Thompson's business is growing. He recently bought another used tractor that has more than 470,000 miles on the engine. He says he will use AMSOIL 15W-40 Heavy-Duty Diesel and Marine Motor Oil in that one too, and he is eager to try the gear lube in his bearings, transmission and differentials.

Thompson has continued to buy AMSOIL 15W-40 Heavy Duty Diesel and Marine Motor Oil, Oil Sample Kits, Heavy Duty Grease and 5th Wheel Grease.

AMSOIL Products Improve Efficiency and Reduce Operating Costs for Gerlach Trucking

AMSOIL INC., in conjunction with Gerlach Trucking of Erskine, Minnesota, conducted a field demonstration of its Series 3000 Synthetic 5W-30 Heavy Duty Diesel Oil, Super Duty Oil Filters and Dual-Gard filtration system equipped with BE-110 by-pass filtration elements.

The test vehicle was a 1995 Freightliner FLD-120 powered by a Detroit 60 Series diesel engine and utilized mainly in long-haul transports. The testing covered a two-year period and the vehicle accumulated 212,326 total miles.

The goals for this demonstration included showing that the use of AMSOIL Series 3000 5W-30 Heavy Duty Diesel Oil, in conjunction with the AMSOIL Dual-Gard filtration setup and SDF Oil Filters, would result in improved efficiency, reduced operating costs and environmental benefits when compared to conventional petroleum lubricants and filtration methods. As mentioned, the evaluation was conducted using a 1995 Freightliner FD-120 equipped with a Detroit 60 Series diesel engine. The AMSOIL Series 3000 5W-30 Heavy Duty Diesel Oil was sampled at the manufacturer's suggested oil drain intervals and monitored through the use of oil analysis to ensure its continued serviceability. The full-flow filtration units were also monitored and replaced at 12,000- to 15,000-mile intervals, while the By-Pass units were monitored and replaced at 24,000- to 30,000-mile intervals. (read more)

AMSOIL Series 3000 Synthetic 5W-30 Heavy Duty Diesel Oil is Correct Choice For Jeff Foster Trucking

With the help of Jeff Foster Trucking Inc. of Superior, WI, AMSOIL put its Series 3000 Synthetic 5W-30 Heavy Duty Diesel Oil (HDD), as well as its Dual-Gard filtration system, to the test.

Ten 1996 Kenworth Class 8 tractors used as interstate freight hauling vehicles and equipped with Cummins N-14 ESP3 diesel engines participated in the demonstration. Five trucks equipped with AMSOIL Series 3000 Synthetic 5W-30 Heavy Duty Diesel Oil, AMSOIL BMK-12 Filter mounts and BE-110 By-Pass filtration elements utilized 120,000-mile oil drain intervals,20,000-mile full- flow oil filter change intervals and 40,000-mile By-Pass filter change intervals, while the other five trucks continued using petroleum motor oil, utilizing 20,000-mile oil and filter drain intervals.

The objective of the field demonstration was to prove that using AMSOIL Series 3000 Synthetic 5W-30 Heavy Duty Diesel Oil, together with the AMSOIL Dual-Gard filtration system, would result in a reduction in operating expenses when compared to the use of conventional petroleum lubricants and filtration methods. Verification will be demonstrated through increased fuel economy, extended drain intervals, reduced oil consumption and reduced maintenance. (read more)

AMSOIL Proves Superior in Clark County Field Test

In order to demonstrate the effectiveness of AMSOIL 15W-40 Synthetic Heavy Duty Diesel and Marine Motor Oil and the AMSOIL Dual-Gard filtration system in reducing operating expenses, AMSOIL and Direct Dealer Bill Andes began an ongoing field test in October 1998 with the bus fleet of the Clark County Board of Mental Retardation & Developmental Disabilities (MR/DD) in Springfield, Ohio.

Participating in the field test are three 1997 International 3800 school buses, two equipped with International 466 diesel engines and one with an International 466E diesel engine. Each had previously been running a conventional petroleum-based oil.

Engine wear rates have decreased significantly since changing to AMSOIL 15W-40 Synthetic Heavy Duty Diesel and Marine Motor Oil. High temperature operating conditions have also been reduced. This leads to enhanced engine protection, and ultimately, to longer engine life. Because the engines have been operating more efficiently, three to five percent gains in fuel economy have also been realized. The chart below compares the levels of wear particles present in the previous conventional oil with the levels present in the AMSOIL as of May 2001. The condition of the AMSOIL at various testing intervals is documented below. (read more)

Diesel Oils Evolve With Diesel Engine Designs

The latest round of emission standards went into effect in 2007, requiring even more stringent NOx and particulate emissions reductions. While low levels of EGR technology (10-15 percent) were successfully applied in diesel engines to meet 2002 NOx emissions standards, most manufacturers incorporated increased EGR rates of 25-35 percent in order to meet 2007 standards. Increased EGR rates mean 2007 and newer diesel engines run hotter than their predecessors, requiring diesel oils meeting the latest API CJ-4 specification to be formulated with improved oxidation resistance properties to prevent thermal runaway and maintain engine protection.

Decreasing the level of sulfur in diesel fuel has been determined to be the most cost effective way to decrease particulate emissions. The introduction of ultra low sulfur diesel (ULSD) fuel in June 2006 dropped diesel sulfur levels from 500 ppm to 15 ppm in order to meet 2007 particulate limits, provide compatibility with NOx after treatment systems and enable high EGR rates.

In addition, in order to further reduce particulate emissions, diesel particulate filters (DPF's) were incorporated into all 2007 and newer American diesel engines, and CJ-4 diesel oils are faced with the challenge of balancing engine protection with DPF life. Increased EGR. although effectively decreasing NOx emissions, results in less efficient combustion and increased levels of soot, and some of it finds its way into the engine oil. (read more)

AMSOIL Boosts CJ-4 Diesel Oil Offering

Upgraded formulation, new viscosity and longer drain intervals provide excellent value

AMSOIL has reformulated its Premium API CJ-4 Synthetic 5W-40 Diesel Oil (DEO). In addition, AMSOIL now offers a new 15W-40 Premium API CJ-4 Synthetic Diesel Oil (DME). These exceptional diesel oils provide a level of protection afforded only by a truly high quality synthetic oil - and do so over drain intervals of 3X (3 times) OEM recommended drain intervals. They are the premium choice for API CJ-4 emission-compliant diesel oil required by model-year 2007 and newer diesel engines. Formulated for vehicles fitted with exhaust treatment devices, DEO and DME are also backwards compatible, offering maximum protection to all diesel applications. (read more)

Superior Filtration Plays Important Role in Engine Protection

A great deal of emphasis is placed on the importance of using the most advanced high-quality lubricants, but superior filtration is often taken for granted. The general attitude displayed by many consumers is to use whatever is cheapest, even when they've invested is superior lubrication. While AMSOIL synthetic motor oils provide unbeatable protection, performance and economy, they require the assistance of filtration. Without filtration, by-products from the combustion process and abrasive materials ingested from the air will ultimately destroy an engine. (read more)

AMSOIL Ea Absolute Efficiency Air Filters - Nano Fiber Technology

AMSOIL Synthetic Gear Lube Outperforms Valvoline Gear Lube

High quality gear oils must lubricate, cool and protect geared systems. They must also carry damaging wear debris away from contact zones and muffle the sound of gear operation. Commonly used in differential gears and standard transmission applications in commercial and passenger vehicles, as well as a variety of industrial machinery, gear oils must offer extreme temperature and pressure protection in order to prevent wear, pitting, spalling, scoring, scuffing and other types of damage that result in equipment failure and downtime. Protection against oxidation, thermal degradation, rust, copper corrosion and foaming is also important.

AMSOIL submitted its 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Lube (AGR) and Valvoline 75W-90 Gear Lube to an independent laboratory for quality comparison tests. The gear lubes were tested according to ASTM testing procedures in several critical performance areas, including oxidation resistance, viscosity retention and cold temperature fluidity. Oxidation resistance was measured using the L-60-1 Thermal Oxidation Stability Test, viscosity retention was measured using the KRL Shear Stability Test and cold temperature fluidity was measured using the Brookfield Viscosity Test. Additional load carrying, wear, extreme pressure and scoring protection tests were performed exclusively on AMSOIL 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Lube using the L-37 High Torque Axle Test and the L-42 High Speed Axle Test. (read more)

Why Motor Oil Deteriorates

It is common knowledge that, at some point, engine oil must be changed. It's something that is preached relentlessly to vehicle owners by vehicle manufacturers, quick lubes and oil companies. But consumers are widely unaware of what exactly makes oil changes necessary.

Many factors contribute to a motor oil's demise, but it is essentially the accumulation of contaminants in the oil and chemical changes in the oil itself that make a motor unfit for further service. With time, it is inevitable that the oil will be contaminated by dirt or sludge, or succumb to the extreme pressures or temperatures found inside an engine. AMSOIL Motor Oils are formulated with the industry's most advanced synthetic base stocks and additive packages to combat the forces that deteriorate conventional oils. (read more)

What is the NOACK Volatility Test?
Volatization is a term used to describe what happens to a fluid as it is heated to the point it begins to "boil off." Upon reaching a certain temperature, oil will begin to lose some of its lighter weight molecules as they "boil off" and leave heavier weight molecules behind. Not only does this cause higher oil consumption, this process can also cause increased viscosity making the oil more difficult to circulate through the lubrication system. (read more)

Quality Takes Priority at AMSOIL

The AMSOIL chemical laboratory plays an important role in the daily operations at AMSOIL headquarters. The lab fulfills tech service requests, performs competitor testing and comparisons, and works on the research and development of products at AMSOIL. One of the most important jobs at the lab is quality control. AMSOIL is known for formulating high-quality products and the AMSOIL chemists ensure that everything coming in and going out meets AMSOIL standards. How do they do it? (read more)

Fuel Dilution Surfaces as Issue in Some Modern Diesel Engines

AMSOIL has documented two separate fuel dilution issues in modern diesel applications, one of which has forced the company to reduce its drain interval recommendations in a few applications using AMSOIL Premium CJ-4 Synthetic Diesel Oils (DEO, DME). AMSOIL recently released a technical service bulletin detailing that fuel dilution issue and providing updated recommendations for AMSOIL Premium Diesel Oils. (read more)

Diesel Oil Drain Interval Recommendations Adjusted

AMSOIL has documented increasing levels of fuel contamination (fuel dilution) in the engine oil of 2007-2008 light-duty Ford, GM and Dodge diesel pickups, and indications are that 2009-2010 models are also affected. Research indicates fuel dilution is intensifying due to the use of in-cylinder post-fuel injection during the engine's exhaust stroke to regenerate the diesel particulate filter (DPF). Fuel in the oil reduces the oil's life expectancy and effectiveness. Because diesel fuel is a natural solvent, fuel dilution in motor oil causes a decrease in viscosity which may lead to an increase in engine wear rates.

Although AMSOIL Premium Diesel Oils have shown the ability to maintain integrity under fuel dilution conditions, the abnormally high rate and unknown long-term effects have forced AMSOIL to adjust its drain interval recommendations as a precautionary measure in 2007-2010 Dodge 6.7L, Ford 6.4L and GM 6.6L LMM light-duty turbo-diesel pickups. In these applications, AMSOIL recommends changing AMSOIL Premium API CJ-4 Synthetic Diesel Oils (DEO, DME) at the manufacturer-recommended drain interval. Drain intervals may be extended further with oil analysis.

AMSOIL previously announced a fuel dilution issue in 2007-2009 on-highway Caterpillar C13 and C15 engines that forced the company to adjust its drain interval recommendation in those applications to the manufacturer-recommended drain interval.

In all other applications, AMSOIL full synthetic diesel oils are recommended for three times (3X) the OEM recommendation, not to exceed 50,000 miles/600 hours or one year, whichever comes first, while Synthetic Blend 15W-40 Heavy Duty Diesel and Gasoline Motor Oil (PCO) is recommended for the longest OEM recommended drain interval. Drain intervals may be extended further with oil analysis.

For complete, updated AMSOIL diesel oil drain recommendations, see the Revised Diesel Oil Drain Interval Recommendations. For more information on the diesel pickup fuel dilution issue, see the Fuel Dilution Issues in 2007-2010 Light-Duty Turbo-Diesel Pickups Technical Service Bulletin (72k PDF). For more information on the Caterpillar C13 and C15 fuel dilution issue, see the Fuel Dilution Issues in 2007-2009 On-Highway Caterpillar C13 and C15 Engines Technical Service Bulletin (54k PDF).

AMSOIL Synthetic Diesel Oils

AMSOIL Synthetic Diesel Oil Articles and Testimonials

AMSOIL Diesel Products Page

Premium AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oils offer the longest drain intervals on the market, unsurpassed protection and performance that effectively extends equipment life and improved fuel economy, saving customers money at the pump and reducing the nation's dependence on foreign oil.

"AMSOIL INC. warrants that the use of its lubricants will not cause mechanical damage to any mechanically sound equipment when AMSOIL INC. products are used in full compliance with the company's recommendations and instructions."

FULL WARRANTY

AMSOIL synthetic motor oils are formulated to surpass engine test specifications, offering protection far greater than competing motor oils for extended drain intervals. Most synthetic oil manufacturers make no claim to extended drain intervals, deferring to the maintenance schedule provided by the vehicle manufacturer. With its unparalleled oil and warranty program, AMSOIL offers consumers unprecedented protection and economics.

Another AMSOIL First

More than 20 years ago, AMSOIL began using the NOACK volatility test as a comparison tool and measurement of quality. Back then, nearly every oil tested side-by-side with AMSOIL synthetic motor oils failed, and those that passed barely squeaked by. Other oil companies paid no attention to NOACK results until Ford Motor Company made it a requirement for service fill oils, validating what AMSOIL had said all along.

AMSOIL Now An ISO Certified Manufacturer
AMSOIL recently received ISO 9001:2000 certification of our Quality Management System (QMS). NSF International Strategic Registrations is the registrar that has verified our QMS meets the requirements of the ISO 9001:2000 standard, the most widely utilized quality standard throughout the world for quality management systems. ISO standards are used by over 300,000 companies worldwide setting rigorous standards for businesses, government and industry.

ISO 9001:2000 is applicable to any manufacturing and service organization providing a framework for system development that focuses on the customer, quality system performance and ongoing improvement. AMSOIL received ISO 9001:2000 registration under the scope: synthetic lubricants blending, packaging, and other fulfillment directly associated with lubricant product.

The ISO certification puts AMSOIL in line with some of the most efficient companies in the world. It is further assurance that the products and services AMSOIL provides will continue to maintain the high level of quality the company always demanded.

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