European Oil for European Vehicles

AMSOIL Synthetic 5W-40 European Car Formula surpasses the requirements of the most stringent European motor oil specifications.

Motor oil and motor oil specifications are quite different between the United States and Europe. Due to government corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) requirements, U.S. motor oil specifications place more importance on fuel economy. European specifications place more emphasis on engine protection due to the longer recommended oil drain intervals in Europe. Differences between American and European vehicle designs also affect the requirements placed on motor oils. European vehicles tend to be equipped with smaller engines with higher power densities, while American vehicles are larger and have larger displacement engines.

The American Petroleum Institute (API) has one current motor oil specification for gasoline engines and another for diesel engines, while the European ACEA system has multiple light duty oil specifications for gasoline and diesel engines. Individual automotive manufacturers select one of the specifications and usually add their own stringent requirements. When an oil is approved by a specific manufacturer, it is simply added to the manufacturer's approved list.

Due to the high motor oil quality standards, both motor oil prices and recommended drain intervals are substantially higher in Europe than in the U.S. Typical oil drain intervals are between 10,000 and 18,000+ miles and an oil change can cost hundreds of dollars. Since each manufacturer has its own specific motor oil requirements, most consumers bring their vehicles to the dealer for oil changes.

Using conventional American motor oils in European vehicles will usually not fulfill that vehicle's requirements. Therefore, offering motor oils that fulfill European OEM specifications gives retail outlets and quick lubes a distinct advantage over their competition, allowing them to reach a new segment of customers and increase sales.

AMSOIL Synthetic 5W-40 European Car Formula
AMSOIL Synthetic 5W-40 European Car Formula (AFL) is specially formulated for the lubrication needs of most modern European gasoline and diesel cars and light trucks. Formulated with advanced synthetic base stocks, premium additives and a 5W-40 viscosity rating, Synthetic European Car Formula is the preferred oil for nearly all European automobiles. It is one of the only oils in North America to be recommended for the latest specifications of all three major European automakers – Volkswagen (Audi), BMW and Mercedes-Benz, as well as the latest North American API specification.

AMSOIL Synthetic 5W-40 European Car Formula is formulated to surpass the most demanding European specifications. It is recommended for European and North American gasoline or diesel vehicles requiring any of the following worldwide specifications:

• API SM/CF
• ACEA C3-04
• ACEA A3/B3-04
• ACEA A3/B4-04
• ACEA C3
• BMW LL-04
• Mercedes Benz 229.31, 229.51
• Porsche
• Saab
• Volvo
• Volkswagen 502.00, 505.00, 505.01
• DaimlerChrysler MS-10725

Hybrid Scooters on the Way

Piaggio SpA recently announced plans to launch a gas-electric hybrid scooter model in congested cities. "The hybrid can represent a very important reply to the problems of traffic, safety and pollution," said Piaggio SpA Chairman Roberto Colaninno. "The hybrid generates synergies from the two motors, using electronic systems." Equipped with a 125cc gas engine, the planned model is based on the Piaggio three-wheeled MP3 scooter and is expected to receive 169 mpg. A lithium battery is used to power the electric motor, and it can be recharged either at the owner's home or through the gas engine when it is running. According to officials, lithium batteries are lighter than conventional lead batteries and can be recharged several thousand times.

A Personal Touch to a Premium Product

New Signature Series 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil offers the ultimate in wear protection and fuel efficiency. From the time he introduced the first can of AMZOIL 10W-40 Synthetic Motor Oil in 1972, AMSOIL President and CEO Al Amatuzio has taken great pride in the superior protection and performance provided by AMSOIL products. Now, in celebration of the 35th anniversary of the AMSOIL MLM business plan, 35 years of Dealer opportunity and 35 years of technical leadership, AMSOIL is updating its premiere motor oil with a new, personal image. New Signature Series 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil (SSO) replaces Series 2000 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil (TSO) and offers even greater performance. Supplemented with a proprietary ashless anti-wear system for improved heat and viscosity control and boasting a 10 percent increase in TBN (see graph), new Signature Series 0W-30 sets the standard for protection and performance. Personally endorsed by AMSOIL founder and President Al Amatuzio, each bottle bears his signature and describes how he developed the first API qualified synthetic motor oil and launched the synthetic motor oil industry. Product Description AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil is the industry benchmark in lubrication technology. Engineered with the world's finest synthetic base oils and high performance additives, AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-30 is designed for those who demand the absolute best in motor oil performance. The exclusive extended drain formulation delivers superior engine protection and maximum fuel economy. AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-30 is a premium grade synthetic motor oil that exceeds the requirements of modern, high-performance engines and older engines. It replaces other 0W-30, 5W-30 and 10W-30 motor oils and consistently outperforms competitive conventional and synthetic motor oils. Extends Drain Intervals AMSOIL Signature 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil lasts much longer in service than conventional oils. Its unique synthetic formulation and long drain additive system resist oxidation and neutralize the acids that shorten the service life of other oils. AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-30 delivers the best possible engine protection, cleanliness and performance over extended drain intervals, reducing vehicle maintenance and waste oil disposal costs. Maximizes Fuel Efficiency The lightweight molecular structure of AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil reduces energy loss from the "drag" common to high viscosity oils. It is fortified with additives that enhance its friction-reducing properties to help further improve fuel efficiency. Reduces Wear AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil contains specialized anti-wear technology. Its durable, high temperature film strength effectively separates metal surfaces to reduce wear even under the most grueling conditions. Tests prove that AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-30 provides better protection against wear than other motor oils (see graph). AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-30 helps engines last longer. Resists Heat, Reduces Oil Consumption and Emissions AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil is thermally stable with a strong resistance to high temperature volatility (burn-off). It is heavily fortified with detergent and dispersant additives designed to prevent sludge deposits and keep engines clean. Low volatility and clean operation reduce oil consumption and emissions. Provides Outstanding Cold Flow Properties Unlike conventional oils, AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-30 contains no wax. Its exceptional -60°F cold flow properties ease starting and reduce bearing wear. Applications AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil is recommended for use in gasoline engines, diesel engines (API CF, ACEA B5) and other applications requiring SAE 0W- 30, 5W-30 or 10W-30 with the following worldwide specifications: API SM/CF, SL, SJ … ILSAC GF-4, 3 … ACEA A5/B5-04 GM 4718M, 6094M Ford WSS-M2C929-A Daimler Chrysler MS-6395N VW 503.00 Service Life AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil is recommended for extended drain intervals in unmodified, mechanically sound, gasoline-fueled vehicles as follows: • Normal Service -- Up to 35,000 miles or one year, whichever comes first. • Severe Service -- Up to 17,500 miles or one year, whichever comes first. • Replace AMSOIL Ea Oil Filter at the time of oil change up to 25,000 miles or one year, whichever comes first (other brands at standard OEM intervals). • In all non-gasoline fueled vehicle applications, extend the oil change interval according to oil analysis or follow the OEM drain interval. AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil will be available October 1. It replaces Series 2000 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil, which will remain available while supplies last. Signature Series 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil Data Bulletin The new Signature Series 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil Data Bulletin, highlighting the features and benefits of Signature Series 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil, is available for purchase.

Customers Choosing Fuel Efficiency

Customers are trading their SUVs for more fuel efficient crossover vehicles. According to the Power Information Network (PIN) division of J.D. Power and Associates, demand for sport utility vehicles (SUVs) has decreased dramatically in recent years, with many customers switching to more fuel efficient crossover utility vehicles (CUVs). Share of the total new vehicle market for the midsize non-premium utility segment, once among the most dominant segments in the industry, has dropped 43 percent since May 1997, while sales volume for the midsize SUV segment has dropped 18 percent since early 2006. The percentage of midsize utility owners trading their vehicles for another of the same type is also on the decline, from 29 percent in May 2004 to 17 percent in May 2007. Owners of these vehicles are increasingly switching to more fuel efficient vehicles. In fact, the percentage of owners trading for a midsize crossover vehicle more than doubled between May 2004 and May 2007, while the percentage trading for a compact crossover increased from 6 percent to 11 percent and the percentage trading for a compact conventional car climbed from 8 percent to 13 percent in the same time period. "We can see the decline in this segment by looking at specific models like the Ford Explorer, which was the third-most-popular model in 1995, 1996 and 1998 in the United States," said Tom Libby, PIN senior director of industry analysis. "But now, the Explorer ranks 46th through the first five months of this year and there are no midsize utility models among the top 20 most popular vehicles in the country." Vehicle manufacturers have taken notice of the decreased demand for midsize utility vehicles. While the number of models in the segment peaked at 22 in 2003, 2004 and 2005, only 16 models are present in the segment this year. "Clearly, consumers are responding to changing economic forces – from rising energy costs to growing concerns about the environment," said Jeff Schuster, J.D. Power and Associates executive director of automotive intelligence. "Manufacturers are responding by dramatically increasing the number of new products in the CUV segment to provide substitutes for midsize SUV models. This shift is far from over and will fundamentally change the mix of vehicles on the road in the years ahead."

Ford Oil Leak

According to Ford Motor Company, some 2002 4.6L two-valve Mustangs may leak oil from the top of the engine. Ford advises inspection of the PCV valve. The leak can usually be attributed to off-kilter stack-up tolerances between the valve and hose, and the problem can be resolved by installing an ordinary worm-type clamp onto the hose.

Extend Gearbox and Lubricant Life

When the oil within a gearbox is changed, five percent or more of the old oil is often left inside. When the oil is not drained immediately after shutdown, sludge and contaminants have a chance to accumulate and remain with the residual oil in the bottom of the sump, becoming resuspended when the gearbox is refilled with lubricant and put back into service. In order to keep contaminants out of fresh oil, Noria Corporation suggests the following steps:

1) Drain the oil within 15 minutes of shutting down and pre-filter the fresh oil.

2) Filter the oil periodically with a portable filtration cart while the machine is running. Have the oil analyzed periodically to determine if it requires changing.

3) Employ full-time filtration.

Gearbox oil drain intervals can usually be extended dramatically after incorporating filtration and oil analysis, not only reducing both lubricant and labor expenses, but extending the life of the gearbox.

Semi-Fluid 00 Synthetic EP Grease

AMSOIL Semi-Fluid 00 Synthetic EP Grease (GSF) is ideal for leaky or difficult-to-service gearboxes in industrial and fleet applications, providing superior protection and performance in shockloading applications that rupture the oil film of conventional greases.

Toyota Sells One Millionth Hybrid

Toyota recently announced the sale of its one millionth hybrid vehicle. Of the one million vehicles sold worldwide, more than half have been sold in the United States. "The cost benefit of hybrids is becoming more apparent with climbing gas prices," says Toyota Motor Sales executive vice president Jim Lentz. "We anticipate combined sales of Toyota and Lexus hybrids of a quarter million units in the U.S. during calendar year 2007." Masatami Takimoto, Toyota Powertrain Development executive vice president, expects hybrids to become the standard drivetrain and account for 100 percent of Toyota vehicles by 2020. According to a recent National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) study, hybrid vehicles have saved close to 215 million gallons of fuel in the U.S. since 1999. In addition to the fuel economy benefits, hybrid owners cite significantly reduced tailpipe emissions and reduced dependence on foreign oil as reasons for buying their hybrids.

Hot Running Twin Cam 96 Engines

Harley-Davidson has recently acknowledged that its Twin Cam 96 engine tends to operate at higher temperatures. In particular, owners of 2007 Ultra Classic Electra Glide motorcycles have noticed an excessive level of heat radiating from the engine. This model has fairing lowers that obstruct some of the cooling air that would usually cool the rider's legs at slower speeds. In addition, the Twin Cam 96 engine operates at higher temperatures than the Twin Cam 88 engine because it has almost 10 percent more displacement and because it is calibrated to run a leaner fuel mixture to meet exhaust emissions standards, often elevating engine heat at slow riding speeds when little air is flowing around the bike.