Does Full Synthetic Motor Oil Truly Protect Your Engine Better? Worth the Extra Cost?
For drivers who occasionally forget to change their oil on schedule, synthetic motor oil provides superior protection. In today's market, full synthetic oils can be safely used beyond 7,500 miles, while conventional oils should not be used past 5,000 miles under ideal circumstances.
Choosing the Right Product
By becoming an Amsoil preferred customer, you can purchase Amsoil OE 100 Synthetic for approximately $5 per quart directly from Amsoil. Explore the detailed catalog by visiting my logo website. Full synthetic oils typically contain around 60-70% synthetic content, but some can reach up to 99%. Amsoil and Motul are notable 100% synthetic oils.
Understanding the Oil Distillation Process
Dive into the oil distillation process to understand the difference between synthetic and conventional oils. In a refinery, crude oil is broken down into smaller molecules to produce various products. Smaller molecules form light fuels and oils, while larger molecules produce tars, grease, and heavier fuel oils. The higher-grade products from the top of the distillation tower have fewer contaminants, thereby making synthetic oils more effective.
Theoretical vs. Practical Benefits
Theoretically, synthetic oil is made by combining smaller chain molecules, which could result in a cleaner oil with fewer contaminants. Contaminants are responsible for wear and oxidation, so fewer contaminants could lead to better engine protection. However, it's difficult to ascertain the actual quality of synthetic oil unless the company provides detailed information about their synthesis process or scientific testing. Personally, I believe synthetic oils are better due to their reduced contaminants.
Practical Testing and Performance
As a hands-on experiment, a friend and I tested a product called Pro-Tec Anti-Friction Metal Treatment. We subjected engine oil samples to an oil destruction/failure testing machine. The experiments revealed that regular motor oil could barely withstand pressure before seizing up. Surprisingly, one of the cheaper oils performed exceptionally well. However, when we mixed these samples with Pro-Tec, the outcomes were remarkable.
The Pro-Tec molecules are designed to bind to metal surfaces, creating a protective layer that prevents direct metal contact. This reduces friction, heat buildup, and eventual failure. During our tests, the bearing surfaces with Pro-Tec could withstand significantly higher pressure without failing for much longer. The results were so pronounced that it seemed like the difference between night and day.
Adding More of the Additive
While the exact retention rate of Pro-Tec during oil changes is unknown, it's estimated that some amount should remain bound to the metal surfaces. For optimal protection, consider adding more of the Pro-Tec additive with each oil change.
Conclusion
While full synthetic motor oil may come with a higher price tag, it provides unparalleled protection against wear and oxidation. If you can afford a high-quality synthetic oil with Pro-Tec, it could be the ultimate protection for your engine.
Resources
Amsoil OE 100 Synthetic and other products are available for purchase directly from the manufacturer. For more information and testing results, visit the Pro-Tec Product Testing page. Read more about the best practices for engine care and oil change intervals.