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F.A.Q.s and Knowledge Database

General Product F.A.Q's

Will synthetic motor oils cause engines to leak oil ?

No. Synthetic oils do not cause engines to leak oil. In fact, the products we carry are fully compatible with modern seal materials and is properly formulated to condition seals, keeping them pliable to prevent leakage.  We have heard cases where switching from petroleum based oil to synthetic resulted in some leakage, however, this condition usually exists in older vehicles or vehicles with high mileage that have always used petroleum based oils.

Over time petroleum based oils will cause gaskets and seals to crack and become faulty, however, the sludge build up from petroleum oil plugs up the areas where the gaskets and seals became faulty. When a switch to synthetic oil is made, the cleansing chemicals in synthetic oils can sometimes unplug the sludge plugged areas which could allow a leakage could occur.

Why are synthetic engine oils capable of extended drain intervals ?

Synthetic oils are formulated using premium synthetic base oils,  high quality additives, that provide extended-drain capabilities. Formulated with high-quality additives, oils achieve greater cleaning powers, while providing better equipment protection over longer oil drain intervals. The unique synthetic formulation and robust TBN retention of synthetic engine oils work to resist oxidation and neutralize the acids that shorten the service life of other oils. Its characteristic resistance to high temperature volatility (burn-off) helps reduce oil consumption, while maintaining viscosity over longer periods of time than other oils. Please check specific product data sheets for specific recommendations.

What does the "W” represent in 5W-30 motor oil ?

The "W” in 5W-30 motor oil stands for "winter” and represents that the oil meets or exceeds certain criteria for good low-temperature performance. Oil with SAE viscosity grade 5W-30 will behave like an SAE 30 oil at high temperatures and SAE 5W oil at low temperatures, providing the necessary fluidity for rapid starts and efficient engine operation at low temperatures.

What motorcycle oils are recommended for Harley-Davidson motorcycles ?

We always have a high demand for AMSOIL SAE 20W-50 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil (MCV) and Synthetic SAE 60 Motorcycle Oil (MCS) as they seem to be the most commonly recommended oils for Harley applications.  AMSOIL motorcycle oils also meet JASO MA2 friction requirements for use in wet clutch applications.

What is the service life of AMSOIL Ea® Oil Filters ?

When used in conjunction with AMSOIL extended-drain motor oil, Ea filters designated with product code EaO are guaranteed for up to 25,000 miles/one year in normal service and up to 15,000 miles/one year in severe service. Ea filters designated with product code Ea15K are guaranteed for up to 15,000 miles/one year, whichever comes first, regardless of driving conditions. It is recommended that all AMSOIL-brand oil filters be changed when the motor oil is changed. If motor oil other than AMSOIL is used, AMSOIL Ea Oil Filters must be changed according to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations.

What exactly does gasoline fuel additive do ?

For optimum fuel efficiency and lower emissions, fuel must first be atomized into a fine mist prior to entering the combustion chamber. Over time, injector deposits produce irregular spray patterns with heavy streams of gasoline that reduce performance, while intake valve deposits also decrease efficiency. By using a potent gasoline additive designed to clean combustion chamber deposits, intake valve deposits and port fuel injector deposits, improve fuel efficiency and performance will usually have a notable increase.

How does using synthetic motor oil affect new vehicle warranties ?

Using synthetic motor oil has no affect on vehicle warranties. A federal law called the Magnuson-Moss Act (1975) prevents original equipment manufacturers from putting conditions on vehicle warranties attached to any product or service identified by brand, trade or corporate name, unless the manufacturer provides that product or service free of charge. This means consumers have the freedom to use aftermarket products of their choice without fear of losing the original limited or implied vehicle warranty.

Are you open to offering products you don’t presently have ?

We realize that everyone has different thoughts about the products they will use in their particular application. That is why we do everything possible to provide the products are customers demand, So, if we don’t have it and the demand justifies getting it then we will do what we can to get it. We are dedicated to providing high quality performance products.

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