For the ultimate in high temperature protection, durability and all-round performance, synthetic oil is the way to go. Unfortunately, most synthetic motor oil costs about three to four as much as ordinary petroleum-based oils. They cost more because synthetic oil requires much more processing and refining. Some synthetic oil may also be manmade from other chemical stocks rather than refined from petroleum. But this improves the oil's performance in virtually every aspect.

Synthetic oil has superior temperature resistance. Synthetic oil can safely handle higher operating temperatures without oxidizing (burning) or breaking down. The upper limit for most mineral based oils is about 250 to 300 degrees F. Synthetic oil can take up to 450 degrees F or higher. This makes synthetic oil well-suited for turbocharged applications as well as high rpm and high output engine applications.

Synthetic oil has better low temperature performance. Synthetic oil flows freely at subzero temperatures, pouring easily at -40 or -50 degrees F. where ordinary oils turn to molasses. This makes for easier cold starts and provides faster upper valvetrain lubrication during the first critical moments when most engine wear occurs.

Synthetic oil improves engine performance. Synthetic oil tends to be more slippery than ordinary motor oil, which improves fuel economy, cuts frictional horsepower losses and helps the engine run cooler. The difference isn't great but it can make a noticeable improvement.

Synthetic oil allows longer oil change intervals. Because synthetic oil resists oxidation and viscosity breakdown better than ordinary motor oil, it does not break down or sludge up as fast as ordinary motor oil. Some synthetic oil suppliers say oil change intervals can be safely extended to 7,500 miles or longer (some as claim as much as 25,000 miles!).

CAUTION: For vehicles under warranty, extending the normal change interval is NOT recommended because failing to follow the OEM maintenance schedule can void your warranty.

Synthetic oils are available in the same grades as ordinary motor oils (5W-30, 5W-20 & 10W-30) as well as "extended" grades such as 15W-50 and even 5W-50.

Who should use a synthetic oil? The premium-priced oil is best for:

• Turbocharged or Supercharged engines.
• Performance or high output engines
• Vehicles used for towing (especially during hot weather).
• Vehicles that are operated in extremely cold or hot climates.
• Anyone who wants the ultimate in lubrication and protection.

SYNTHETIC BLEND MOTOR OIL

NEWS UPDATE Oct 30, 2007: A new green synthetic motor oil made from beef tallow (animal fat) is now available as an alternative to petroleum-based oils. The new oil is 100% biodegradeable, non-toxic, and safe (you can even drink it!). Performance is similar to other synthetic oils but it costs a little less. The product is called G-OIL.

Motor Oil Resources:
AMSOIL Synthetic Oil
Castrol Synthetic Oil
G-OIL.
Mobil1 Synthetic Oil
Pennzoil Synthetic Oil
Quaker State Synthetic Oil
Redline Synthetic Oil

Royal Purple Synthetic Oil