3 Important Tips When Selecting Engine Oils
How your vehicle performs is largely dependent on the engine oil you use. It's designed to lubricate parts and prevent overheating, but for it to work at an optimal rate, you need to consider these selection tips.
1. Pay Attention to Labels
Unfortunately, not all engine oils are created equal. Some are better than others and some work for particular types of engines. You can make sense of the various oil types, though, by paying attention to the labels on the bottle.
One of the most important to look for is the API (American Petroleum Institute) certification, which guarantees the oil meets strict criteria for optimal engine performance. You'll also want to pay attention to the figure in the middle, as it describes the oil's viscosity. The lower these figures are, the less viscosity an oil has. You'll need to consult with your vehicle's manufacturer to see what viscosity figures you need.
2. Select an Oil Type
There are many types of engine oils you can choose for your vehicle today. Some of the more common include high-mileage, synthetic blend, and conventional engine oil. If your vehicle is a bit older and has a lot of miles on it, you'll want to select a high-mileage engine oil. It contains special additives to decrease oil burn-off.
If you're looking for a more general type of oil that works great for a lot of vehicles, conventional engine oil will suffice. It's affordable, readily available on the market, and is great for simple engine designs. Lastly, synthetic oils are great for performing in extreme temperatures.
3. Don't Forget About Additives
You can get the most out of your engine oil by making sure it contains the right additives. For example, if you're trying to prevent your oil from turning into sludge, you'll want to look for oils that contain dispersants. They are uniquely designed to dissolve solid particles, preventing them from coming together and hardening.
If you're looking to reduce engine friction, oils that have friction modifiers are ideal. Usually containing graphite, friction modifiers can prevent engine friction and improve your vehicle's overall fuel economy. Other great additives you might want to consider include foam inhibitors, anti-wear agents, and rust inhibitors.
Since there are so many engine oils on the market -- each designed for different purposes -- it's important to take your time choosing the right type. Assess various attributes and ratings to find an engine oil that works perfectly for your particular vehicle or machine.
Check out a website like http://www.smallandsonsoil.com for more information and assistance.
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