What oil to 'break in' a newly rebuilt engine?
What is Zinc in the oil used for? Does it help?
Here is a great article. It is long but worth the read.
https://540ratblog.wordpress.com/2013/06/20/motor-oil-wear-test-ranking/
Here is another-
http://www.cherokeeforum.com/f2/rotella-worlds-first-ever-combined-hair-oil-foot-ointment-salad-dressing-188168/
The “WEAR
PROTECTION RANKING LIST” itself, begins here:
1. Prolong
Engine Treatment added to 5W30 Pennzoil Ultra, API SN synthetic = 136,658 psi
This oil on its own WITHOUT the Prolong Engine Treatment added to it, has a wear protection capability of 92,569 psi. With the recommended amount of Prolong added per qt, its wear protection capability “WENT UP 48%”.
This oil on its own WITHOUT the Prolong Engine Treatment added to it, has a wear protection capability of 92,569 psi. With the recommended amount of Prolong added per qt, its wear protection capability “WENT UP 48%”.
2. Prolong
Engine Treatment added to 5W30 Castrol GTX, API SN conventional = 130,366 psi
This oil on its own WITHOUT the Prolong Engine Treatment added to it, has a wear protection capability of 95,392 psi. With the recommended amount of Prolong added per qt, its wear protection capability “WENT UP 37%”
This oil on its own WITHOUT the Prolong Engine Treatment added to it, has a wear protection capability of 95,392 psi. With the recommended amount of Prolong added per qt, its wear protection capability “WENT UP 37%”
3. Prolong
Engine Treatment added to 5W30 Pennzoil, API SN conventional, (yellow bottle) =
117,028 psi
This oil on its own WITHOUT the Prolong Engine Treatment added to it, has a wear protection capability of 76,989 psi. With the recommended amount of Prolong added per qt, its wear protection capability “WENT UP 52%”.
This oil on its own WITHOUT the Prolong Engine Treatment added to it, has a wear protection capability of 76,989 psi. With the recommended amount of Prolong added per qt, its wear protection capability “WENT UP 52%”.
4. 5W30 Motul
300V Ester Core 4T Racing Oil, synthetic = 112,464 psi
This Motorcycle Road Racing oil is from France and comes in liter bottles (slightly more than a quart). At the time this oil was tested in spring 2014, it cost $24.25 per bottle. And with the shipping cost added to that, the final cost was about $33.00 per bottle (shipping was all inside the U.S.), making it THE most expensive motor oil I’ve ever tested
This Motorcycle Road Racing oil is from France and comes in liter bottles (slightly more than a quart). At the time this oil was tested in spring 2014, it cost $24.25 per bottle. And with the shipping cost added to that, the final cost was about $33.00 per bottle (shipping was all inside the U.S.), making it THE most expensive motor oil I’ve ever tested
5. “Oil Extreme
concentrate” added to 5W30 Pennzoil Ultra, API SM synthetic = 111,570 psi
This oil on its own WITHOUT the “Oil Extreme concentrate” added to it, has a wear protection capability of 115,612 psi. But, with 2.0 OZ of concentrate added per qt, which is the amount intended for racing, its wear protection capability “WENT DOWN 3.5%”.
This oil on its own WITHOUT the “Oil Extreme concentrate” added to it, has a wear protection capability of 115,612 psi. But, with 2.0 OZ of concentrate added per qt, which is the amount intended for racing, its wear protection capability “WENT DOWN 3.5%”.
6. “Oil Extreme
concentrate” added to 10W30 Brad Penn, Penn Grade 1 semi-synthetic = 111,061psi
This oil on its own WITHOUT the “Oil Extreme concentrate” added to it, has a wear protection capability of only 71,206 psi. But, with 2.0 OZ of concentrate added per qt, which is the amount intended for racing, its wear protection capability “WENT UP A BREATH TAKING 56%”.
This oil on its own WITHOUT the “Oil Extreme concentrate” added to it, has a wear protection capability of only 71,206 psi. But, with 2.0 OZ of concentrate added per qt, which is the amount intended for racing, its wear protection capability “WENT UP A BREATH TAKING 56%”.
7. 5W30 Oil
Extreme Motor Oil, API SM synthetic (per the Oil Company, even though synthetic
wording is not shown on the label) = 110,286 psi
The Company claims this oil contains their proprietary formula of calcium petroleum sulfontate EP (Extreme Pressure) technology that is NOT found in any other motor oil. They also claim that it will provide 5 to 7 more HP, 7 to 10% better fuel mileage, cut engine wear in half, and will extend drain intervals two or three times safely. This oil is endorsed and promoted by Tech Author David Vizard. And he was so impressed by this oil’s performance that he also became a share holder in the Company. The results from the “Dynamic Wear Testing Under Load” performed here, fully supports their claim regarding wear protection. So, their hype about that, turned out to be absolutely true. And since this oil beat nearly every high zinc oil I’ve ever tested, it also proved another one of their claims, that using zinc as the primary anti-wear component, is outdated technology.
The Company claims this oil contains their proprietary formula of calcium petroleum sulfontate EP (Extreme Pressure) technology that is NOT found in any other motor oil. They also claim that it will provide 5 to 7 more HP, 7 to 10% better fuel mileage, cut engine wear in half, and will extend drain intervals two or three times safely. This oil is endorsed and promoted by Tech Author David Vizard. And he was so impressed by this oil’s performance that he also became a share holder in the Company. The results from the “Dynamic Wear Testing Under Load” performed here, fully supports their claim regarding wear protection. So, their hype about that, turned out to be absolutely true. And since this oil beat nearly every high zinc oil I’ve ever tested, it also proved another one of their claims, that using zinc as the primary anti-wear component, is outdated technology.
8. 5W30
Valvoline MaxLife High Mileage, API SN, synthetic blend (red bottle) = 108,045
psi
High Mileage oils are formulated for older engines with over 75,000 miles on them. And High Mileage oils include “Seal Swell” chemicals to help reduce oil leakage in those older engines.
High Mileage oils are formulated for older engines with over 75,000 miles on them. And High Mileage oils include “Seal Swell” chemicals to help reduce oil leakage in those older engines.
9. 10W30 Lucas
Racing Only synthetic = 106,505 psi
NOTE: This oil is suitable for short term racing use only, and is not suitable for street use.
NOTE: This oil is suitable for short term racing use only, and is not suitable for street use.
10. CFS 0W30 NT
Millers Nanodrive Racing Oil, API SM synthetic = 105,907 psi
This oil is from England, comes in liter bottles (slightly more than a quart), and it uses a nanotechnology formulation. At the time this oil was tested in fall 2013, it cost $22.45 per bottle. And with the shipping cost added to that, the final cost was about $28.00 per bottle (shipping was all inside the U.S.), making it one of the most expensive oils I’ve ever tested.
This oil is from England, comes in liter bottles (slightly more than a quart), and it uses a nanotechnology formulation. At the time this oil was tested in fall 2013, it cost $22.45 per bottle. And with the shipping cost added to that, the final cost was about $28.00 per bottle (shipping was all inside the U.S.), making it one of the most expensive oils I’ve ever tested.
11. 5W30 Mobil
1, API SN synthetic = 105,875 psi
12. “Oil
Extreme concentrate” added to 10W30 Lucas Hot Rod & Classic Hi-Performance
Oil conventional = 105,758 psi
This oil on its own WITHOUT the “Oil Extreme concentrate” added to it, has a wear protection capability of only 62,538 psi. But, with 2.0 OZ of concentrate added per qt, which is the amount intended for racing, its wear protection capability “WENT UP A MIND BLOWING 69%”.
This oil on its own WITHOUT the “Oil Extreme concentrate” added to it, has a wear protection capability of only 62,538 psi. But, with 2.0 OZ of concentrate added per qt, which is the amount intended for racing, its wear protection capability “WENT UP A MIND BLOWING 69%”.
13. 0W30 Amsoil
Signature Series 25,000 miles, API SN synthetic = 105,008 psi
14. 5W30 Joe
Gibbs Driven LS30 Performance Motor Oil, synthetic = 104,487 psi
The bottle says it is formulated specifically for high output GM LS engines, and that no ZDDP or additives required. This is by far, the best performing Joe Gibbs oil I’ve ever tested. It is at the very top of the OUTSTANDING wear protection category, and fell just short of the INCREDIBLE wear protection category. But, it has way too much zinc/phos for use in cat equipped vehicles. However, it is well suited for Race Cars, Street Hotrods and Classic cars.
The bottle says it is formulated specifically for high output GM LS engines, and that no ZDDP or additives required. This is by far, the best performing Joe Gibbs oil I’ve ever tested. It is at the very top of the OUTSTANDING wear protection category, and fell just short of the INCREDIBLE wear protection category. But, it has way too much zinc/phos for use in cat equipped vehicles. However, it is well suited for Race Cars, Street Hotrods and Classic cars.
15. 10W30
Valvoline NSL (Not Street Legal) Conventional Racing Oil = 103,846 psi
NOTE: This oil is suitable for short term racing use only, and is not suitable for street use. Since this testing was performed, Valvoline has discontinued this oil.
NOTE: This oil is suitable for short term racing use only, and is not suitable for street use. Since this testing was performed, Valvoline has discontinued this oil.
16. 5W50
Motorcraft, API SN synthetic = 103,517 psi
17. 10W30
Valvoline VR1 Conventional Racing Oil (silver bottle) = 103,505 psi
18. 5W30 Amsoil
Series 3000 Heavy Duty Diesel Oil synthetic, API CI-4 PLUS, CF, SL, ACEA A3/B3,
E2, E3, E5, E7 = 102,642 psi
This is BY FAR, the highest ranked Diesel oil I have ever tested. This oil is Engineered for Diesel engines not equipped with Diesel particulate filters (DPF). Amsoil says this oil delivers better wear protection than other popular Diesel oils. And in this case, their hype is absolutely true. They also say it effectively reduces fuel consumption, with its advanced fuel efficient formula. This oil costs $11.15 per quart in the 2013 Amsoil Factory Direct Retail Catalog,
This is BY FAR, the highest ranked Diesel oil I have ever tested. This oil is Engineered for Diesel engines not equipped with Diesel particulate filters (DPF). Amsoil says this oil delivers better wear protection than other popular Diesel oils. And in this case, their hype is absolutely true. They also say it effectively reduces fuel consumption, with its advanced fuel efficient formula. This oil costs $11.15 per quart in the 2013 Amsoil Factory Direct Retail Catalog,
19. 5W30
Pennzoil High Mileage Vehicle, API SN, conventional = 102,402 psi
High Mileage oils are formulated for older engines with over 75,000 miles on them. And High Mileage oils include “Seal Swell” chemicals to help reduce oil leakage in those older engines.
High Mileage oils are formulated for older engines with over 75,000 miles on them. And High Mileage oils include “Seal Swell” chemicals to help reduce oil leakage in those older engines.
20. “Oil
Extreme concentrate” added to 5W30 Mobil 1, API SN synthetic = 102,059 psi
This oil on its own WITHOUT the “Oil Extreme concentrate” added to it, has a wear protection capability of 105,875 psi. But, with 2.0 OZ of concentrate added per qt, which is the amount intended for racing, its wear protection capability “WENT DOWN 3.6%”.
This oil on its own WITHOUT the “Oil Extreme concentrate” added to it, has a wear protection capability of 105,875 psi. But, with 2.0 OZ of concentrate added per qt, which is the amount intended for racing, its wear protection capability “WENT DOWN 3.6%”.
21. 10W30
Valvoline VR1 Synthetic Racing Oil, API SL (black bottle) = 101,139 psi
22. “Oil
Extreme concentrate” added to 5W30 Pennzoil, API SN conventional, (yellow
bottle) = 100,252 psi
This oil on its own WITHOUT the “Oil Extreme concentrate” added to it, has a wear protection capability of only 76,989 psi. But, with 1.5 OZ of concentrate added per qt, which is the bottle’s instruction for street driven vehicles, its wear protection capability “WENT UP A WHOPPING 30%”.
This oil on its own WITHOUT the “Oil Extreme concentrate” added to it, has a wear protection capability of only 76,989 psi. But, with 1.5 OZ of concentrate added per qt, which is the bottle’s instruction for street driven vehicles, its wear protection capability “WENT UP A WHOPPING 30%”.
23. 5W30
Chevron Supreme, API SN conventional (blue bottle) = 100,011 psi
This oil only cost $4.29 per quart at an Auto Parts Store when I bought it.
This oil only cost $4.29 per quart at an Auto Parts Store when I bought it.
24. 5W20
Castrol Edge with Titanium, API SN synthetic (gold bottle) = 99,983 psi
25. 5W30
Pennzoil Platinum, API SN synthetic = 99,949 psi
This was the original API SN version, that was NOT made from natural gas.
This was the original API SN version, that was NOT made from natural gas.
26. “Oil
Extreme concentrate” added to 5W30 Pennzoil, API SN conventional, (yellow
bottle) = 99,529 psi
This oil on its own WITHOUT the “Oil Extreme concentrate” added to it, has a wear protection capability of only 76,989 psi. But, with 2.0 OZ of concentrate added per qt, which is the amount intended for racing, its wear protection capability “WENT UP 29%”.
This oil on its own WITHOUT the “Oil Extreme concentrate” added to it, has a wear protection capability of only 76,989 psi. But, with 2.0 OZ of concentrate added per qt, which is the amount intended for racing, its wear protection capability “WENT UP 29%”.
27. 5W30
Pennzoil “Ultra” Platinum, Pure Plus Technology, made from pure natural gas, API
SN = 99,039 psi
28. “Oil
Extreme concentrate” added to 5W30 Oil Extreme Motor Oil, API SM synthetic =
98,396 psi
This oil on its own WITHOUT the “Oil Extreme concentrate” added to it, has a wear protection capability of 110,286 psi. But, with 2.0 OZ of concentrate added per qt, which is the amount intended for racing, its wear protection capability “WENT DOWN 11%”.
This oil on its own WITHOUT the “Oil Extreme concentrate” added to it, has a wear protection capability of 110,286 psi. But, with 2.0 OZ of concentrate added per qt, which is the amount intended for racing, its wear protection capability “WENT DOWN 11%”.
29. “Oil
Extreme concentrate” added to 5W30 Pennzoil, API SN conventional, (yellow
bottle) = 97,651 psi
This oil on its
own WITHOUT the “Oil Extreme concentrate” added to it, has a wear protection
capability of only 76,989 psi. But, with 3.0 OZ of concentrate added per qt,
its wear protection capability “WENT UP 27%”.
30. 10W30
Amsoil Dominator Racing Oil synthetic = 97,118 psi
31. “Oil
Extreme concentrate” added to 5W30 Pennzoil, API SN conventional, (yellow
bottle) = 96,739 psi
This oil on its own WITHOUT the “Oil Extreme concentrate” added to it, has a wear protection capability of only 76,989 psi. But, with 4.0 OZ of concentrate added per qt, its wear protection capability “WENT UP 26%”.
This oil on its own WITHOUT the “Oil Extreme concentrate” added to it, has a wear protection capability of only 76,989 psi. But, with 4.0 OZ of concentrate added per qt, its wear protection capability “WENT UP 26%”.
32. 20W50
Castrol GTX, API SN conventional = 96,514 psi
33. 30 wt Red
Line Race Oil synthetic = 96,470 psi
NOTE: This oil is suitable for short term racing use only, and is not suitable for street use.
NOTE: This oil is suitable for short term racing use only, and is not suitable for street use.
34. 0W20 Mobil
1 Advanced Fuel Economy, API SN synthetic = 96,364 psi
35. 5W30 Quaker
State Ultimate Durability, API SN synthetic = 95,920 psi
36. 5W30
Castrol Edge with Titanium, API SN synthetic (gold bottle) = 95,717 psi
37. 10W30 Joe
Gibbs XP3 NASCAR Racing Oil synthetic = 95,543 psi
NOTE: This oil is suitable for short term racing use only, and is not suitable for street use.
NOTE: This oil is suitable for short term racing use only, and is not suitable for street use.
38. 5W20
Castrol GTX, API SN conventional = 95,543 psi
39. 5W30
Castrol GTX, API SN conventional = 95,392 psi
40. 10W30
Amsoil Z-Rod Oil synthetic = 95,360 psi
41. 5W30
Havoline, API SN conventional = 95,098 psi
42. 5W30
Valvoline SynPower, API SN synthetic = 94,942 psi
43. “Oil
Extreme concentrate” added to 5W30 Chevron Supreme, API SN conventional (blue
bottle) = 94,864 psi
This oil on its own WITHOUT the “Oil Extreme concentrate” added to it, has a wear protection capability of 100,011 psi. But, with 2.0 OZ of concentrate added per qt, which is the amount intended for racing, its wear protection capability “WENT DOWN 5.1%”.
This oil on its own WITHOUT the “Oil Extreme concentrate” added to it, has a wear protection capability of 100,011 psi. But, with 2.0 OZ of concentrate added per qt, which is the amount intended for racing, its wear protection capability “WENT DOWN 5.1%”.
44. 5W30 Valvoline
Premium Conventional, API SN = 94,744 psi
45. 5W20 Mobil
1, API SN synthetic = 94,663 psi
46. 5W20 Valvoline SynPower, API SN synthetic = 94,460 psi
46. 5W20 Valvoline SynPower, API SN synthetic = 94,460 psi
47. 10W40 Mobil
1 Racing 4T, four stroke Motorcycle oil, synthetic = 93,661 psi
48. 5W30 Eneos,
API SN, synthetic = 93,135 psi
49. 5W30
Pennzoil Ultra, API SN synthetic = 92,569 psi
50. 5W30 Lucas,
API SN conventional = 92,073 psi
51. 5W30
O’Reilly (house brand), API SN conventional = 91,433 psi
This oil only cost $3.99 per quart at an Auto Parts Store when I bought it.
This oil only cost $3.99 per quart at an Auto Parts Store when I bought it.
52. 5W30
Castrol GTX High Mileage, API SN, synthetic blend = 91,404 psi
High Mileage oils are formulated for older engines with over 75,000 miles on them. And High Mileage oils include “Seal Swell” chemicals to help reduce oil leakage in those older engines
High Mileage oils are formulated for older engines with over 75,000 miles on them. And High Mileage oils include “Seal Swell” chemicals to help reduce oil leakage in those older engines
53. 5W30 Maxima
RS530 Synthetic Racing Oil = 91,162 psi
54. 5W30 Red
Line, API SN synthetic = 91,028 psi
55. 5W20 Royal
Purple API SN synthetic = 90,434 psi
56. 10W30
Quaker State Defy High Mileage, API SL semi-synthetic = 90,226 psi
Defy has always been a High Mileage oil since it was first introduced. But, “High Mileage” hasn’t always been prominently displayed on the front label. Newer bottles do now prominently display “High Mileage” on the front label. High Mileage oils are formulated for older engines with over 75,000 miles on them. And High Mileage oils include “Seal Swell” chemicals to help reduce oil leakage in those older engines.
Defy has always been a High Mileage oil since it was first introduced. But, “High Mileage” hasn’t always been prominently displayed on the front label. Newer bottles do now prominently display “High Mileage” on the front label. High Mileage oils are formulated for older engines with over 75,000 miles on them. And High Mileage oils include “Seal Swell” chemicals to help reduce oil leakage in those older engines.
57. 10W60
Castrol TWS Motorsport, API SJ conventional = 90,163 psi
This oil is manufactured in Europe and is sold in the US for BMW models M3, M5, M6, Z4M, and Z8.
This oil is manufactured in Europe and is sold in the US for BMW models M3, M5, M6, Z4M, and Z8.
58. 5W20
Valvoline Premium Conventional, API SN = 90,144 psi
59. “Oil
Extreme concentrate” added to 5W30 Castrol GTX, API SN conventional = 89,659
psi
This oil on its own WITHOUT the “Oil Extreme concentrate” added to it, has a wear protection capability of 95,392 psi. But, with 2.0 OZ of concentrate added per qt, which is the amount intended for racing, its wear protection capability “WENT DOWN 6%”.
This oil on its own WITHOUT the “Oil Extreme concentrate” added to it, has a wear protection capability of 95,392 psi. But, with 2.0 OZ of concentrate added per qt, which is the amount intended for racing, its wear protection capability “WENT DOWN 6%”.
60. 5W30
Havoline, API SN synthetic = 89,406 psi
61. 5W30
Penrite 10 Tenths Racing 5, synthetic = 88,992 psi
This oil comes from Australia in 1 liter bottles (slightly more than a quart), and can be ordered in the U.S. from Summit Racing Equipment. It claims low friction for max power, and says it is not suitable for motorcycles with wet clutches. It also claims to have a full zinc formula.
This oil comes from Australia in 1 liter bottles (slightly more than a quart), and can be ordered in the U.S. from Summit Racing Equipment. It claims low friction for max power, and says it is not suitable for motorcycles with wet clutches. It also claims to have a full zinc formula.
62. 30 wt
Castrol Heavy Duty, API SM conventional = 88,089 psi
63. 5W30 Mobil
1 High Mileage, API SL, synthetic = 88,081 psi
High Mileage oils are formulated for older engines with over 75,000 miles on them. And High Mileage oils include “Seal Swell” chemicals to help reduce oil leakage in those older engines.
High Mileage oils are formulated for older engines with over 75,000 miles on them. And High Mileage oils include “Seal Swell” chemicals to help reduce oil leakage in those older engines.
64. 20W50 LAT
Synthetic Racing Oil, API SM = 87,930 psi
65. 5W30
Valvoline Nextgen 50% Recycled Oil, API SN conventional = 87,563 psi
66. 5W30
Pennzoil Platinum, Pure Plus Technology, made from pure natural gas, API SN =
87,241 psi
67. 5W50 Mobil
1, API SN, synthetic = 86,456 psi
68. 10W30 Joe
Gibbs HR4 Hotrod Oil synthetic = 86,270 psi
69. 5W20
Pennzoil Ultra, API SM synthetic = 86,034 psi
70. 15W40 RED
LINE Diesel Oil synthetic, API CJ-4/CI-4 PLUS/CI-4/CF/CH-4/CF-4/SM/SL/SH/EO-O =
85,663 psi
71. 5W30
Castrol Edge w/Syntec, API SN, synthetic (formerly Castrol Syntec), (black
bottle) = 85,179 psi
72. 20W50 Millers
Classic Performance Oil, API SJ, conventional = 84,764 psi
Claims high ZDDP level. It comes from England in 1 Liter bottles, which is slightly more than a quart, and is available in the U.S.
Claims high ZDDP level. It comes from England in 1 Liter bottles, which is slightly more than a quart, and is available in the U.S.
73. 5W30
Schaeffer’s Supreme 9000, API SN, synthetic = 84,118 psi
74. 5W30 Royal
Purple API SN synthetic = 84,009 psi
75. 20W50 Royal
Purple API SN synthetic = 83,487 psi
76. 20W50
Kendall GT-1 High Performance with liquid titanium, API SN conventional =
83,365 psi
77. 5W30 Mobil
1 Extended Performance 15,000 mile, API SN synthetic = 83,263 psi
78. 0W20
Castrol Edge with Titanium, API SN synthetic (gold bottle) = 82,867 psi
79. 0W40 Mobil
1, API SN, European Formula, made in the U.S., synthetic = 82,644 psi
80. 0W40
Pennzoil Ultra, API SN, synthetic = 81,863 psi
81. 5W30 LAT
Synthetic Racing Oil, API SM = 81,800 psi
82. “Oil
Extreme concentrate” added to 5W30 Royal Purple XPR (extreme performance racing
oil) synthetic = 81,723 psi
This oil on its own WITHOUT the “Oil Extreme concentrate” added to it, has a wear protection capability of only 74,860 psi. But, with 2.0 OZ of concentrate added per qt, which is the amount intended for racing, its wear protection capability “WENT UP 9%”.
This oil on its own WITHOUT the “Oil Extreme concentrate” added to it, has a wear protection capability of only 74,860 psi. But, with 2.0 OZ of concentrate added per qt, which is the amount intended for racing, its wear protection capability “WENT UP 9%”.
83. 0W30 Mobil
1, API SN, Advanced Fuel Economy, synthetic = 81,240 psi
84. 5W30 Peak,
API SN synthetic = 80,716 psi
85. 5W30
Edelbrock “Cat-Safe”, API SM synthetic = 78,609 psi
This oil is made for Edelbrock by Torco
This oil is made for Edelbrock by Torco
86. 30wt Amsoil
Break-In Oil conventional = 78,192 psi
87. 20W50
Resolute Racing Oil, API SN conventional = 77,554 psi
This oil cost only $2.49 per quart when bought for this test. It is a Regional Oil from the Mid-Western U.S. farm country.
This oil cost only $2.49 per quart when bought for this test. It is a Regional Oil from the Mid-Western U.S. farm country.
88. 5W40 Amsoil
Premium Diesel Oil synthetic, API CJ-4, CI-4 PLUS, CF, SN, SM, ACEA E7, E9 =
77,207 psi
89. 10W30
Renegade Pro Series Racing Oil, synthetic blend = 77,136 psi
90. 15W40 ROYAL
PURPLE Diesel Oil synthetic, API CJ-4 /SM, CI-4 PLUS, CH-4, CI-4 = 76,997 psi
91. 5W30
Pennzoil, API SN, conventional (yellow bottle) = 76,989 psi
92. 10W40
Chevron Supreme, API SN conventional (blue bottle) = 76,806 psi
93. 5W30 Lucas
API SM synthetic = 76,584 psi
94. 5W30 GM’s
AC Delco dexos 1 API SN semi-synthetic = 76,501 psi
95. 5W30 Motul
8100 X-clean, API SM, synthetic = 76,166 psi
This oil is made in France, and comes in a 1 liter bottle, which = 1.05 qts’96. 20W50 Mobil 1 V-Twin 4 Cycle Motorcycle Oil, API SJ, synthetic = 75,855 psi
This oil is made in France, and comes in a 1 liter bottle, which = 1.05 qts’96. 20W50 Mobil 1 V-Twin 4 Cycle Motorcycle Oil, API SJ, synthetic = 75,855 psi
97. 5W50
Castrol Edge with Syntec API SN, synthetic, (formerly Castrol Syntec), (black
bottle) = 75,409 psi
98. “Oil
Extreme concentrate” added to 10W30 Comp Cams Muscle Car & Street Rod Oil
semi-synthetic = 74,874 psi’
This oil on its
own WITHOUT the “Oil Extreme concentrate” added to it, has a wear protection
capability of only 60,413 psi. But, with 2.0 OZ of concentrate added per qt,
which is the amount intended for racing, its wear protection capability “WENT
UP AN IMPRESSIVE 24%”.
99. 5W30 Royal
Purple XPR (Extreme Performance Racing) synthetic = 74,860 psi
100. 15W40
Cenpeco (Central Petroleum Company) S-3 Diesel Oil, conventional, API CI-4,
CH-4, CG-4, CF, CE, CD, SL, SJ, SH = 74,593 psi
101. 5W40 MOBIL
1 TURBO DIESEL TRUCK synthetic, API CJ-4, CI-4 Plus, CI-4, CH-4 and ACEA E7 =
74,312 psi
102. 0W50 Mobil
1 Racing Oil = 73,811 psi
103. 5W30 Peak,
API SN conventional = 73,690 psi
104. 5W30 Mobil
Super Synthetic, API SN = 73,601 psi
105. 5W30
Castrol GTX Magnatec, API SN, synthetic blend = 73,566 psi
This oil claims to have molecules that cling to parts, forming an extra layer of protection during warm-up, reducing engine wear.
This oil claims to have molecules that cling to parts, forming an extra layer of protection during warm-up, reducing engine wear.
106. 15W40
CHEVRON DELO 400LE Diesel Oil, conventional, API CJ-4, CI-4 Plus, CH-4,
CF-4,CF/SM, = 73,520 psi
107. 15W40
MOBIL DELVAC 1300 SUPER Diesel Oil conventional, API CJ-4, CI-4 Plus, CI-4,
CH-4/SM, SL = 73,300 psi
108. 15W40 Farm
Rated Heavy Duty Performance Diesel Oil conventional CI-4, CH-4, CG-4, CF/SL,
SJ = 73,176 psi
109. 5W30
Amalie Elixir Oil, API SN, synthetic = 72,825 psi
110. 15W40
“NEW” SHELL ROTELLA T Diesel Oil conventional, API CJ-4, CI-4 Plus, CH-4,
CF-4,CF/SM = 72,022 psi
111. Brad Penn,
Penn Grade 1 Nitro 70 Racing Oil semi-synthetic = 72,003 psi
112. 0W30 Mobil
1 Racing Oil = 71,923 psi
113. 0W30 Brad
Penn, Penn Grade 1, partial synthetic = 71,377 psi
114. 15W40
“OLD” SHELL ROTELLA T Diesel Oil conventional, API CI-4 PLUS, CI-4,
CH-4,CG-4,CF-4,CF,SL, SJ, SH = 71,214 psi
Yes it’s true, the old Rotella actually has LESS zinc than the new Rotella.
Yes it’s true, the old Rotella actually has LESS zinc than the new Rotella.
115. 10W30 Brad
Penn, Penn Grade 1, partial synthetic = 71,206 psi
116. 15W40
VALVOLINE PREMIUM BLUE HEAVY DUTY DIESEL Oil conventional, API CJ-4, CI-4 Plus,
CI-4, CH-4, CG-4, CF-4, CF/SM = 70,869 psi
117. 15W50
Mobil 1, API SN synthetic = 70,235 psi
118. 10W40
Resolute All Season Motor Oil, API SN conventional = 69,709 psi
This oil cost $2.49 per quart when bought for this test. It is a Regional Oil from the Mid-Western U.S. farm country.
This oil cost $2.49 per quart when bought for this test. It is a Regional Oil from the Mid-Western U.S. farm country.
119. 5W40
CHEVRON DELO 400LE Diesel Oil synthetic, API CJ-4, CI-4 Plus, CI-4, SL, SM =
69,631 psi
120. 5W40 Liqui
Moly Leichtlauf High Tech Oil, synthetic = 69,580 psi
This oil is made in Germany and is available in the U. S. It comes in 1 Liter bottles which is slightly more than a quart.
This oil is made in Germany and is available in the U. S. It comes in 1 Liter bottles which is slightly more than a quart.
121. 0W40
Castrol Edge with Syntec, API SN, synthetic, European Formula, made in Belgium
and sold in the U.S., (black bottle) = 69,307 psi
122. 0W30
Castrol Edge with Syntec, API SL, synthetic, European Formula, made in Germany
and sold in the U.S., (black bottle)= 69,302 psi
123. 30wt
Edelbrock Break-In Oil conventional = 69,160 psi
124. 5W30
Motorcraft, API SN synthetic = 68,782 psi
125. 10W40
Edelbrock synthetic = 68,603 psi
This oil is manufactured for Edelbrock by Torco.
This oil is manufactured for Edelbrock by Torco.
126. 5W30
Toyota Motor Oil, API SN conventional = 68,069 psi
127. 5W40 SHELL
ROTELLA T6 Diesel Oil, synthetic, API CJ-4, CI-4 Plus, CI-4, CH-4, SM, SL =
67,804 psi
128. 10W30
Champion Racing Oil, synthetic blend = 67,239 psi
129. 15W40
LUCAS MAGNUM Diesel Oil, conventional, API CI-4,CH-4, CG-4, CF-4, CF/SL =
66,476 psi
130. 15W40
CASTROL GTX DIESEL Oil, conventional, API CJ-4, CI-4 Plus, CI-4, CH-4, CG-4,
CF-4/SN = 66,323 psi
131. 10W30
Royal Purple HPS (High Performance Street), synthetic = 66,211 psi
132. 10W40
Valvoline 4 Stroke Motorcycle Oil, API SJ, conventional = 65,553 psi
133. 15W40
Swepco 306 Supreme Formula Engine Oil, with Dimonyl, conventional, API CI-4/SL,
CF-2 = 65,185 psi
This oil is from Southwestern Petroleum Corporation.
This oil is from Southwestern Petroleum Corporation.
134. 5W30 Klotz
Estorlin Racing Oil, API SL, synthetic = 64,175 psi
135. “ZDDPlus”
added to Royal Purple 20W50, API SN, synthetic = 63,595 psi
The amount of ZDDPlus added to the oil, was the exact amount the manufacturer called for on the bottle. And the resulting psi value here was 24% LOWER than this oil had BEFORE the ZDDPlus was added to it. Most major Oil Companies say to NEVER add anything to their oils, because adding anything will upset the carefully balanced additive package, and ruin the oil’s chemical composition. And that is precisely what we see here. Adding ZDDPlus SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCED this oil’s wear prevention capability. Just the opposite of what was promised.
The amount of ZDDPlus added to the oil, was the exact amount the manufacturer called for on the bottle. And the resulting psi value here was 24% LOWER than this oil had BEFORE the ZDDPlus was added to it. Most major Oil Companies say to NEVER add anything to their oils, because adding anything will upset the carefully balanced additive package, and ruin the oil’s chemical composition. And that is precisely what we see here. Adding ZDDPlus SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCED this oil’s wear prevention capability. Just the opposite of what was promised.
136. 5W30 PurOl
Elite Series, synthetic = 63,282 psi
137. Royal
Purple 10W30 Break-In Oil, conventional = 62,931 psi
138. 10W40
Crane Cams Break-In Oil, conventional = 62,603 psi
139. 10W30
Lucas Hot Rod & Classic Hi-Performance Oil, conventional = 62,538 psi
140. 5W30 Motul
8100 ECO-nergy, API SL, synthetic = 61,880 psi
This oil is made in France, and comes in a 1 liter bottle, which = 1.05 qts
For reference, 5W30 Motul 300V Ester Core 4T Racing Oil, synthetic, produced a wear protection capability of 112,464 psi
This oil is made in France, and comes in a 1 liter bottle, which = 1.05 qts
For reference, 5W30 Motul 300V Ester Core 4T Racing Oil, synthetic, produced a wear protection capability of 112,464 psi
141. 0W20 Klotz
Estorlin Racing Oil, API SL, synthetic = 60,941 psi
142. 10W30 Comp
Cams Muscle Car & Street Rod Oil, synthetic blend = 60,413 psi
This oil is manufactured for Comp Cams by Endure.
This oil is manufactured for Comp Cams by Endure.
143. 10W40
Torco TR-1 Racing Oil with MPZ, conventional = 59,905 psi
144. 10W40
Summit Racing Premium Racing Oil, API SL = 59,483 psi
145. 10W40
Edelbrock, conventional = 59,120 psi
This oil is manufactured for Edelbrock by Torco.
This oil is manufactured for Edelbrock by Torco.
146. 10W40
Spectro Motor-Guard High Performance Motorcycle Oil, API SL, conventional =
57,977 psi
147. 10W40 Brad
Penn, Penn Grade 1, partial synthetic = 57,864 psi
148. 0W20 LAT
Synthetic Racing Oil, API SM = 57,228 psi
149. “ZDDPlus”
added to O’Reilly (house brand) 5W30, API SN, conventional = 56,728 psi
The amount of ZDDPlus added to the oil, was the exact amount the manufacturer called for on the bottle. And the resulting psi value here was 38% LOWER than this oil had BEFORE the ZDDPlus was added to it. Adding ZDDPlus SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCED this oil’s wear prevention capability. Just the opposite of what was promised.
The amount of ZDDPlus added to the oil, was the exact amount the manufacturer called for on the bottle. And the resulting psi value here was 38% LOWER than this oil had BEFORE the ZDDPlus was added to it. Adding ZDDPlus SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCED this oil’s wear prevention capability. Just the opposite of what was promised.
150. “ZDDPlus”
added to Motorcraft 5W30, API SN, synthetic = 56,243 psi
The amount of ZDDPlus added to the oil, was the exact amount the manufacturer called for on the bottle. And the resulting psi value here was 12% LOWER than this oil had BEFORE the ZDDPlus was added to it. Adding ZDDPlus SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCED this oil’s wear prevention capability. Just the opposite of what was promised.
The amount of ZDDPlus added to the oil, was the exact amount the manufacturer called for on the bottle. And the resulting psi value here was 12% LOWER than this oil had BEFORE the ZDDPlus was added to it. Adding ZDDPlus SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCED this oil’s wear prevention capability. Just the opposite of what was promised.
151. 30wt Brad
Penn, Penn Grade 1, Break-In Oil, conventional = 56,020 psi
152. 0W Mobil 1
Racing Oil = 55,080 psi
153. “Edelbrock
Zinc Additive” added to Royal Purple 5W30, API SN, synthetic = 54,044 psi
The amount of Edelbrock Zinc Additive added to the oil, was the exact amount the manufacturer called for on the bottle. And the resulting psi value here was a whopping 36% LOWER than this oil had BEFORE the Edelbrock Zinc Additive was added to it. Adding Edelbrock Zinc Additive SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCED this oil’s wear prevention capability. Just the opposite of what was promised.
The amount of Edelbrock Zinc Additive added to the oil, was the exact amount the manufacturer called for on the bottle. And the resulting psi value here was a whopping 36% LOWER than this oil had BEFORE the Edelbrock Zinc Additive was added to it. Adding Edelbrock Zinc Additive SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCED this oil’s wear prevention capability. Just the opposite of what was promised.
154. 10W30 Comp
Cams Break-In Oil, conventional = 51,749 psi
155. “Edelbrock
Zinc Additive” added to Lucas 5W30, API SN, conventional = 51,545 psi
The amount of Edelbrock Zinc Additive added to the oil, was the exact amount the manufacturer called for on the bottle. And the resulting psi value here was a “breath taking” 44% LOWER than this oil had BEFORE the Edelbrock Zinc Additive was added to it. Adding Edelbrock Zinc Additive SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCED this oil’s wear prevention capability. Just the opposite of what was promised.
The amount of Edelbrock Zinc Additive added to the oil, was the exact amount the manufacturer called for on the bottle. And the resulting psi value here was a “breath taking” 44% LOWER than this oil had BEFORE the Edelbrock Zinc Additive was added to it. Adding Edelbrock Zinc Additive SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCED this oil’s wear prevention capability. Just the opposite of what was promised.
156. 15W50 Joe
Gibbs Driven BR Break-In oil, conventional = 51,299 psi
NOTE: Total Seal also sells this Break-In Oil with their label on it.
NOTE: Total Seal also sells this Break-In Oil with their label on it.
157. “Edelbrock
Zinc Additive” added to Motorcraft 5W30, API SN, synthetic = 50,202 psi
The amount of Edelbrock Zinc Additive added to the oil, was the exact amount the manufacturer called for on the bottle. And the resulting psi value here was 22% LOWER than this oil had BEFORE the Edelbrock Zinc Additive was added to it. Adding Edelbrock Zinc Additive SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCED this oil’s wear prevention capability. Just the opposite of what was promised.
158. 30wt Lucas Break-In Oil, conventional = 49,455 psi
The amount of Edelbrock Zinc Additive added to the oil, was the exact amount the manufacturer called for on the bottle. And the resulting psi value here was 22% LOWER than this oil had BEFORE the Edelbrock Zinc Additive was added to it. Adding Edelbrock Zinc Additive SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCED this oil’s wear prevention capability. Just the opposite of what was promised.
158. 30wt Lucas Break-In Oil, conventional = 49,455 psi
159. 5W30 Joe
Gibbs Driven BR30 Break-In Oil, conventional = 47,483 psi
NOTE: Total Seal also sells this Break-In Oil with their label on it.
NOTE: Total Seal also sells this Break-In Oil with their label on it.
So, the results show:
1. My tester and test procedure have no
problem at all showing excellent performing high zinc oils. The fact is, my oil
testing performs worst case torture testing on motor oil. So, an oil HAS TO BE
GOOD to produce good results. And we saw that many high zinc oils produced
excellent results here.
2. This is ABSOLUTE PROOF that not all
high zinc oils have equal wear protection capabilities. And why would anyone
think that all high zinc oils are good? Not all tires are good. Not all
cylinder heads are good. Not all camshafts are good. The world just doesn’t
work that way. Some high zinc oils are quite good and provide excellent wear
protection, while other high zinc oils are not good at all, and provide rather
poor wear protection. It just depends on the particular oil in question. And
that makes it totally clear here, that you simply CANNOT predict an oil’s wear
protection capability by looking only at its zinc level. Life is just NOT that
simple. If you only look at zinc levels, that is no better than guessing. So,
if anyone tells you that you need high levels of zinc for more wear protection,
even if it comes from a Cam Company, don’t believe a word of it. Because as you
can see above, they have no idea what they are talking about. Would you really
want to use the 40th ranked last place oil simply because it has more zinc than
the number one ranked oil here? That is just what you’d be doing if you
believed the incorrect advice about only looking at zinc levels. In fact, MANY
WIPED FLAT TAPPET LOBES COULD HAVE BEEN AVOIDED, INCLUDING DURING BREAK-IN, if
people had not blindly believed that all high zinc oils provide all the wear
protection they need. Because nothing could be further from the truth.
3. A motor oil’s wear protection
capability is determined by its base oil and its additive package “as a whole”,
with the emphasis on its additive package which is what contains the extreme
pressure anti-wear components, and NOT simply by how much zinc is present. The
ONLY way to know for sure how much wear protection any given oil can provide,
is to look at “dynamic wear testing under load” results, such as I have
provided above.
My motor oil testing, is very similar
in concept to dyno testing an engine. An engine dyno test is also dynamic
testing under load. For the guys who just want to look at a motor oil zinc
level reference chart, that is like looking at an engine’s build sheet instead
of its dyno print out. Which do you think has more value?
ADDITIVES-
Zn- Zinc is the most effective and cheapest anti-wear additive. It has been a part of engine lubrication since the 1930s. Zinc forms a coating on top of moving metal parts to provide protection when engine oil film strength simply is not enough. This action makes it extremely useful in situations with high pressures, such as those present in a flat tappet cam follower. It also prevents corrosion due to acids.
Phos- works with Zn, hand in hand, in almost equal parts and the two metals are delivered together in compounds commonly called ZDDP, ZDP, ZTP. Phos is poisonous th the rare metals in catalytic converters and will eventually kill them.
Moly- is an anti-wear additive. It also forms a layer on the metals that protects against wear and corosion. It is quite slippery, similiar to graphite. It is a solid lubricant used in low speed applications like massive bearings on large equipment and in many extreme pressure greases. It increases the lubricant qualities of an oil and shown to increase fuel economy and is not a catalyst poison.
Boron- is another anti-wear 'ceramic' additive. Often called 'white graphite'.
Ca- is a detergent. It lifts deposits, soot and sluge off surfaces. It increases the alkalinity of the oil and increases the rate of decomposition of ZDDP. Too much can be a bad thing.
Mg- is a dispersant. It makes sure that the scum that Ca breaks up doesn't settle again and is carried to the filter. Small contaminants can stay in the oil and makes the oil look 'dirtier'. Helps keep your engine clean over a long oil change interval.
TBN- Total Base Number is an index of oil's reserve alkalinity. It helps neutralizes acids that form by blow-by gasses. Acids in an engine oil lead to corosion and can damage seals. TBN of 1-2 is the lower limit. High TBN is important to running an extended oil change interval. It is not an additive, but just a measurement.
OILS COMMONLY USED-
Joe Gibbs Break In Oil 10w30 51,299psi Zn?
Joe Gibbs Break In Oil 50w 47,483psi Zn?
Brad Penn Break In Oil 30w 56,020psi Zn?
Valvoline VR1 Conventional Silver bottle 103,505psi, Zn=1472, Phos=1544, (ZDDP=1500), Moly=3, Ca=2707, TBN=7.4
Valvoline VR1 Synthetic 10w30 Black bottle 101,139psi, Zn=1180, Phos=1112, (ZDDP=1100), Moly=162, Ca=2664, TBN=7.9
Mobil 1 5w30 105,875psi, Zn=801, Phos=842, Moly=112, Ca=799, TBN=7.5
Rotella T6 5w40 67,804psi, Zn=1264, Phos=1147, Moly=59, Ca=1066, Mg=1187, Boron=69, TBN=10.6
ADDITIVES-
Zn- Zinc is the most effective and cheapest anti-wear additive. It has been a part of engine lubrication since the 1930s. Zinc forms a coating on top of moving metal parts to provide protection when engine oil film strength simply is not enough. This action makes it extremely useful in situations with high pressures, such as those present in a flat tappet cam follower. It also prevents corrosion due to acids.
Phos- works with Zn, hand in hand, in almost equal parts and the two metals are delivered together in compounds commonly called ZDDP, ZDP, ZTP. Phos is poisonous th the rare metals in catalytic converters and will eventually kill them.
Moly- is an anti-wear additive. It also forms a layer on the metals that protects against wear and corosion. It is quite slippery, similiar to graphite. It is a solid lubricant used in low speed applications like massive bearings on large equipment and in many extreme pressure greases. It increases the lubricant qualities of an oil and shown to increase fuel economy and is not a catalyst poison.
Boron- is another anti-wear 'ceramic' additive. Often called 'white graphite'.
Ca- is a detergent. It lifts deposits, soot and sluge off surfaces. It increases the alkalinity of the oil and increases the rate of decomposition of ZDDP. Too much can be a bad thing.
Mg- is a dispersant. It makes sure that the scum that Ca breaks up doesn't settle again and is carried to the filter. Small contaminants can stay in the oil and makes the oil look 'dirtier'. Helps keep your engine clean over a long oil change interval.
TBN- Total Base Number is an index of oil's reserve alkalinity. It helps neutralizes acids that form by blow-by gasses. Acids in an engine oil lead to corosion and can damage seals. TBN of 1-2 is the lower limit. High TBN is important to running an extended oil change interval. It is not an additive, but just a measurement.
OILS COMMONLY USED-
Joe Gibbs Break In Oil 10w30 51,299psi Zn?
Joe Gibbs Break In Oil 50w 47,483psi Zn?
Brad Penn Break In Oil 30w 56,020psi Zn?
Valvoline VR1 Conventional Silver bottle 103,505psi, Zn=1472, Phos=1544, (ZDDP=1500), Moly=3, Ca=2707, TBN=7.4
Valvoline VR1 Synthetic 10w30 Black bottle 101,139psi, Zn=1180, Phos=1112, (ZDDP=1100), Moly=162, Ca=2664, TBN=7.9
Mobil 1 5w30 105,875psi, Zn=801, Phos=842, Moly=112, Ca=799, TBN=7.5
Rotella T6 5w40 67,804psi, Zn=1264, Phos=1147, Moly=59, Ca=1066, Mg=1187, Boron=69, TBN=10.6