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Knowledge that protects engines

Practical, independent explanations of oil specifications, viscosity, lubrication, engine protection, and automotive fluids.

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Automotive lubricant testing in a modern laboratory

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Modern automatic transmission and service tools on a clean workshop bench.
Specifications Explained

ZF LifeguardFluid 8 and 9 Explained

ZF LifeguardFluid 8 and LifeguardFluid 9 are distinct service fluids for specific ZF automatic transmissions. This guide explains why the number does not simply match the number of gears, how hybrid applications complicate the choice, and how to verify the correct fluid before service.

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Specifications Explained Golden motor oil protects engine components beside an exhaust aftertreatment filter.

ACEA 2016: Good Bye A1/B1, Welcome C5

The European Automobile Manufacturers' Association (ACEA) introduced its new oil sequences on December 1, 2016. The new specifications have been long awaited by the industry since there have been 4 years between the ACEA 2012...

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Specifications Explained A fleet technician inspects an engine oil sample beside heavy-duty diesel trucks.

API CK-4 and FA-4 Specifications in a Nutshell

The American Petroleum Institute launched two new diesel specifications in 2016. The specification criteria were revealed last winter and the first claims can be made starting from December 1st, 2016 so oil manufacturers have time...

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Specifications Explained An engineer inspects a motor oil sample beside a gasoline engine test stand.

API SN Engine Oil Category

In 2010 the American Petroleum Institute introduced a new engine oil category under the name API SN and a new supplemental category called Resource Conserving. The API SN category is an improvement over the API...

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Specifications Explained A mechanic services the wet clutch assembly of a modern motorcycle.

JASO MA and JASO MB classifications

Modern motorcycles usually have the same oil lubricating the engine and the wet clutch. For this purpose most of the time the regular friction modified engine oils are not good enough. To make sure that...

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