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Joe.C
Dodge Dakota
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12/11/2004
15:54:34

Subject: I'm useing 10W40 oil.
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Would it be nesersary to use a lighter oil for the winter?



scott
Dodge Dakota
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12/11/2004
16:20:45

RE: I'm useing 10W40 oil.
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depends how cold of weather u have. it you see freezing sure it couldnt hurt



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12/11/2004
17:02:02

I'm useing 10W40 oil - Switch to Amsoil ?
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To answer the question ...

Since Winter is upon us ... and that was the concern of the original post, ... the first number, preceding the "w" (for Winter, as in "__w-"), is an oil’s viscosity grade, ... is an indication of low-temperature performance -- the lower the better. The lower winter viscosity grades will be more valuable in colder climates. 10w- generally flows and pumps fine at four degrees below zero on the Fahrenheit scale, and each grade below that buys you another nine degrees. Synthetic oil is vastly superior to conventional oil in its low-temperature pumpability, high-temperature stability, long-drain capability, and high lubricity (low friction).

The second number represents the oil’s high-temperature viscosity, but higher is not always better! One wants to choose the minimum viscosity that results in an oil film thick enough to prevent wear at the temperatures one expects to encounter. Only the engineers that designed the engine know what viscosity is required to provide adequate film thickness without unnecessary friction, so you should certainly try to remain within manufacturers guidelines. For what it’s worth, I trust the engineers.

It is almost certain that higher viscosity oils, such as Xw-40 and Xw-50, are complete wastes of energy, placing undue strain on your engine, and raising operating temperatures for no real benefit.
__________________________________________________

VISCOSITY ... in the general term is defined as " a fluids resistance to flow". it's a measure of the internal friction of the fluid or the resistance to the movement of one layer of molecules relative to an adjacent layer.

THE LOWER (SMALLER or FIRST #, as in "10w-_) NUMBER.. is the Cold Cranking Measurement, made at low temperatures, using a concentric cylinder viscometer to predict the oils cranking resistance in an engine during cold starting.

The measuring devices, or viscosmeters, most often used are in the form of close-fitting concentric cylinders. The fluid being evaluated is placed between the cylinder walls, the outer cylinder is held stationary and the inner cylinder is rotated. The speed of rotation is measured for a given force to calculate the viscosity, most commonly reported in cp or centipoise units. Also known as Absolute Viscosity.

THE HIGHER (BIGGER or SECOND #, as in "-30") NUMBER...is commonly measured in capilary tubes, in which the time for a fixed volume of fluid to flow through the tube under gravity at operating temp (100c)is measured and reported as cSt or centistokes. This is used most commonly to report the normal operating viscosity of motor oils or the higher number.
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"__W- " is a viscosity GRADE, not a viscosity MEASUREMENT.

When testing for cold fluidity (the ability to flow in cold weather), the temperature is lowered approximately 5 degrees centigrade between each test.

The Cold Crank Simulator Apparent Viscosity is tested at:

-20 C for 10W-
-25 C fpr 5W-
-30 C for 0W-

It is my understanding that the oil has to be labelled at the lowest temperature it meets the specifications.

It may not be long before someone comes out with a " -5W-30 " which would correspond with -35 C.
__________________________________________________


Additional information regarding "VISCOSITY"

All metal engine parts need to be separated from each other while moving in order to prevent friction and wear on the parts. This in done in modern production engines using a thin film of oil (usually less than 1/10,000 of an inch thick). Oil’s viscosity, in part, determines how thick a film the oil will form between moving parts, and how much friction there will be between those parts when separated by the oil.

Higher viscosity means thicker oil films and more friction within the oil. Obviously, one wants a viscosity high enough to prevent parts from grinding against each other, but no higher than that, because any more results in excessive friction within the oil, leading to excess heat and power loss. The ideal oil would provide the minimum required viscosity under all conditions.

Unfortunately, an oil’s viscosity diminishes with increasing temperature, necessitating the use of an oil which will have the minimum required viscosity at the highest expected temperature, and greater than optimal viscosity at lower temperatures.
__________________________________________________


You can Request a Free Amsoil Catalog by clicking below.




Steven Roark , Amsoil Dealer , Proud Sponsor of www.DodgeDakotas.com

AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oils, Lubricants, Filtration, and Truck Care Products



AmsoilSponsor
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12/11/2004
17:06:27

I'm using 10W40 oil, Switch to Amsoil 5w-, 10w30?
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Worthy of a repeat:

Since Winter is upon us, ... I will repeat the following ... the first number, preceding the ‘w’ (for Winter), is an oil’s viscosity grade, is an indication of low-temperature performance -- the lower the better. The lower winter viscosity grades will be more valuable in colder climates. 10w- generally flows and pumps fine at four degrees below zero on the Fahrenheit scale, and each grade below that buys you another nine degrees. Synthetic oil is vastly superior to conventional oil in its low-temperature pumpability, high-temperature stability, long-drain capability, and high lubricity (low friction).

The second number represents the oil’s high-temperature viscosity, but higher is not always better! One wants to choose the minimum viscosity that results in an oil film thick enough to prevent wear at the temperatures one expects to encounter. Only the engineers that designed the engine know what viscosity is required to provide adequate film thickness without unnecessary friction, so you should certainly try to remain within manufacturers guidelines. For what it’s worth, I trust the engineers.

It is almost certain that higher viscosity oils, such as Xw-40 and Xw-50, are complete wastes of energy, placing undue strain on your engine, and raising operating temperatures for no real benefit ... costing you in registering lower MPG.
__________________________________________________


You can Request a FREE Amsoil Catalog by clicking below.



Steven Roark , Amsoil Dealer , Proud Sponsor of www.DodgeDakotas.com

AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oils, Lubricants, Filtration, and Truck Care Products



AmsoilSponsor
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12/11/2004
17:10:33

Winter Preparation = Amsoil Protection !
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... additional information now that Winter Driving Season is upon us.

Three Critical Concerns for Confident Cold Weather Travel

All vehicles need attention from time to time, but here in the wintertime your Dakota needs extra care. For confident winter starts, it is important to keep a watch on three critical areas: the lubrication system, the cooling system and the battery. Let's take a quick look under the hood to see if you're ready for the worst of Old Man Winter.

Check Your Motor Oil and Switch to Synthetic

It is important to check your motor oil levels on a regular basis. Without lubrication, friction between moving parts leads to engine wear.

But it is also important to think about the type of motor oil you are using. For severe cold, there is a significant performance difference between synthetic and conventional motor oil.

Cold weather is tough on engines because of the limitations of traditional lubricants. Motor oils and greases become thicker, thus slowing starting rpm, restricting oil flow to critical engine parts, increasing wear on bearings and rings, decreasing engine life, and increasing the burden on an already overtaxed starting system.

For really cold weather, only Synthetic Motor Oils and Lubricants offer the kind of performance that allows cars and trucks to start with ease. Many synthetic motor oils still flow or pump at temperatures up to sixty and seventy below zero ... and synthetics have a broader service range than traditional petroleum.

The admonition to check your motor oil is intended as a reminder to not only watch fluid levels, but to consider whether your motor oil is fulfilling its lubricating function in severe weather. No sense in being stranded on an isolated road because your engine couldn't turn over.

Check Your Antifreeze and Choose Amsoil Antifreeze and Coolant!

If you are in a hostile winter region ... you are aware that inadequate antifreeze in the engine's cooling system can result in serious damage to your vehicle. When water freezes it expands, putting high stress on the corridors where it travels. A cracked engine block is not unlikely in extreme cold. Water pump failure and blown hoses are also common side effects from frozen cooling systems.

There are a number of relatively inexpensive antifreeze testers available for measuring the effective working temperature of your antifreeze. If you don't own one of these gauges, be sure to have the radiator fluid checked at your local service station to make sure it is suitable for severe cold temperatures.

In recent years there has been a growing awareness of the hazards associated with traditional Ethylene Glycol antifreeze. EG-based antifreeze is not only considered an environmental hazard and deadly for pets when spilled on the ground, it is toxic for children. What is especially bad is that Ethylene Glycol-based antifreeze has a sweet taste that invites animals and children to ingest it.

An alternative to Ethylene Glycol antifreeze is the new Propylene Glycol which is generally regarded as safe even in the event of accidental ingestion. In addition, it has an unpleasant taste, making it unlikely that animals or children will drink any appreciable amount. Propylene Glycol provides excellent protection against freezing, boiling and corrosion. In addition, the new AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze is compatible with all other antifreeze products and does not require a complete system flush before usage.

Check Your Battery - (Amsoil does not sell batteries)

The ideal operating temperature of your car battery is 80 degrees F. As temperatures drop, so does the efficiency of the battery. In very cold weather, the battery's power output can be diminished to as little as ten percent.

What's more, as batteries age their strength is further reduced. When it is very cold and your older battery has lost a measure of its cranking capacity, you have a situation where it may not have the power to turn over the engine.

Cold winter starts are harsh. If the motor oil is not fluid, and the battery worn down, you may want to have your cellular phone handy in case you need to call for help.

Be Prepared

It never hurts to be prepared, as the Boy Scouts are fond of saying. Even when you follow these routine maintenance checks it is still wise to stock the usual survival supplies as standard procedure for your vehicle - shovel, bag of sand or grit, toolbox, jumper cables, fuel de-icer additive, large flashlight and road flares. Extra blankets, clothes, food, fluids and a first aid kit are a life insurance policy that you hope you won't ever need, but sometimes can't afford to be without.

Good snow tires, and a few seasons of experience driving on slippery roads also helps ... and knowing when not to attempt driving at all.
__________________________________________________

You can Request a FREE Amsoil Synthetic Lubricants Catalog by clicking below.

..... HAPPY HOLIDAYS AND SAFE DRIVING!



Steven Roark , Amsoil Dealer , Proud Sponsor of www.DodgeDakotas.com

AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oils, Lubricants, Filtration, and Truck Care Products



JasonB
Dodge Dakota
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12/11/2004
17:50:29

RE: I'm useing 10W40 oil.
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A big thanks to our sponsor...now, back you you Bob...



STS
Dodge Dakota
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12/11/2004
18:01:00

RE: I'm useing 10W40 oil.
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Go with Sythetic oils!



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12/11/2004
19:28:39

Amsoil Sponsor Steven Roark Amsoil Dealer #1061837
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The low down ...

The lower winter viscosity grades will be more valuable in colder climates.

... "10w-__" ... generally flows and pumps fine at
... four degrees below zero on the Fahrenheit scale,

... and each grade below that buys you another nine degrees.

That bit of easy to remember information should help!
__________________________________________________

Synthetic Oil?

Synthetic oil is vastly superior to conventional oil in its low-temperature pumpability, as well as high-temperature stability, long-drain capability, and high lubricity (low friction).

__________________________________________________

You can Request a FREE Amsoil Catalog by clicking below.



Steven Roark , Amsoil Dealer , Proud Sponsor of www.DodgeDakotas.com

AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oils, Lubricants, Filtration, and Truck Care Products



Mark.S
Dodge Dakota
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12/16/2004
15:22:57

RE: I'm useing 10W40 oil.
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10W30 is what was used in my truck when I got it serviced. Of course they said they use Mopar oil but I know better. Valvoline is what was used.



CP
Dodge Dakota
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12/16/2004
16:48:02

RE: I'm useing 10W40 oil.
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You could get away with heavier weight in the summer. Dakotas specify 10w30. Heavier oils will lower oil pressure and make it risky to race the engine because oil will flow slower through the valves. Dont do it. You're my friend and I would hate you to have a meltdown.



Numb Nuts
Dodge Dakota
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12/16/2004
17:26:16

RE: I'm useing 10W40 oil.
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You could get away with heavier weight in the summer. Dakotas specify 10w30. Heavier oils will lower oil pressure and make it risky to race the engine because oil will flow slower through the valves. Dont do it. You're my friend and I would hate you to have a meltdown

What Fcking Valves are you refering to.?



Joe.C
Dodge Dakota
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12/16/2004
17:29:31

RE: I'm useing 10W40 oil.
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Well My oil pressure is running high even with 10W30. Its not over the mark but close.



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12/16/2004
22:30:36

I'm using 10W40 oil, Switch to Amsoil 5w-, 10w-30?
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Repeat:

It is almost certain that higher viscosity oils, such as Xw-40 and Xw-50, are complete wastes of energy, ... placing undue strain on your engine, ... and raising operating temperatures for no real benefit ... which also costs you in lower MPG.
__________________________________________________


You can Request a FREE Amsoil Catalog by clicking below.



Steven Roark , Amsoil Dealer , Proud Sponsor of www.DodgeDakotas.com

AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oils, Lubricants, Filtration, and Truck Care Products



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