Choosing A Motor Oil: Facts Over Friction

Two components determine how well motor oil will perform in your car. One factor is the base oil and the other is the combination of chemicals-or additives-that are added to the base oil.

The two primary types of base oil used are mineral and synthetic. Mineral oils are by-products of refined crude oil. Synthetic oils are man-made compounds whose molecules are all the same size and shape; consequently, synthetic oil has less friction and performs significantly better than mineral oils.

Chemicals must be added to give motor oil the characteristics needed to do its job. Typical additives include detergents to reduce the formation of residue, defoamants to deter absorption of air, anti-wear agents, antioxidants and others.

Some of the biggest technological advances in lubrication are to be found in chemical additives. Most of these breakthroughs have been developed by companies that specialize in high-performance lubricants, as opposed to major oil companies whose primary focus is refining and selling crude oil by-products, such as gasoline.

For example, a company called Royal Purple has developed lubricants that are said to outperform both leading mineral oils and other synthetics. Their oil is designed to reduce engine wear, increase horsepower and torque, and save gas and emissions.

For many, the easiest way to select motor oil is to follow the good, better, best model:

Good: Mineral-based, or regular, motor oils are the cheapest and most widely available oils. They typically use standard additive packages that provide minimal levels of performance and protection.

Better: Synthetic, or man-made, motor oils are more expensive, tend to have a longer service life and offer some improvements in protection. They typically use the same additive packages found in mineral-based oils.

Best: High-performance synthetic motor oils are the most technologically advanced oils. Although they often outperform mineral-based or synthetic motor oils, they are about the same price as standard synthetic motor oil. Usually, they are only available through auto parts stores and select oil change centers.

To learn more, visit the Web site at www.royalpurpleinfo.com. Chemicals must be added to motor oil so it can do its job. Typical additives include detergents and antioxidants.

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