If You’re On the Fence About Synthetic Oil, Check This Out

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It’s easy to have your doubts about switching from mineral base to synthetic oil. Thankfully this explanation will fill you in with lovely bits of information to show which oil is the better choice for your engine. Engineering Explained host Jason Fenske shows us exactly what oil weights mean, as well as how they stay viscous over the wide temperature ranges that an engine goes through.

The advantages of synthetic are seen over time, rather than any immediate lubricating qualities. Over time, the polymers and additives in mineral oil break down. If you look at the animation above, the cold weight of conventional oil was chosen on purpose over synthetic. It shows a more dramatic difference of viscosity between new and used oils. Synthetic blends retain similar viscosity, whereas conventional oil shows a very notable difference. Keeping viscosity over time greatly helps with engines that see the regular daily grind. Plus, it means you can have longer intervals between oil changes.

If you’re in the market (and why wouldn’t you be?), Royal Purple offers synthetic oils that help reduce engine heat and provide greater performance. I call that a win-win.

Chime in with your thoughts on the forum. >>

Via [Engineering ExplainedRoad & Track]

Patrick Morgan is an instructor at Chicago's Autobahn Country Club and contributes to a number of Auto sites, including MB World, Honda Tech, and 6SpeedOnline. Keep up with his latest racing and road adventures on Twitter and Instagram!


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