Originally Posted By: Doug Hillary
Hi,
LexusAussie - You said this:
"It's a good product but not a synthetic oil."
This is incorrect!
It was superceded by GTX Magnatec (with UMA) 10W-40 around 1998-9 and was also advertised as a "synthetically enhanced" lubricant. In their terminolgy it was stated to have a semi-synthetic base fluid
Doug,
First of all, apologies to the Forum for highjacking this thread.
GTX Magnatec did indeed come onto the market in 1988/99 as a 10W-40. I've used it in my vehicles from 1999 until 2007. It is a Semi-Synthetic (ie a Mineral Based oil blended with Synthetic Oils). It is NOT a full Synthetic Oil.
It's base specs are outlined in the TDS:
http://www.tds.castrol.com.au/pdf/5052_Castrol_Magnatec_10W40_119369_2006_10.pdf
They are not those of a Synthetic Oil and there is no claim from Castrol that Magnatec is a synthetic oil.
Wikipedia defines a Semi-Synthetic oil as "Semi-synthetic oils (also called 'synthetic blends') are blends of mineral oil with no more than 30% synthetic oil. ". Castrol Magnatec is a Semi-Synthetc Oil
The Castrol Magnatec Professional is a "Fully Synthetic" according to Castrol's Marketing Speak yet I have confirmed with Castrol's Tech Division that it is Group III oil.
Again, Wikepedia states "Group III base stocks are considered synthetic motor oil ONLY in the United States. Group III based lubricants are not allowed to be marketed as "synthetic" in any market outside of the USA."
I have the following response from Castrol's Technical Line in an email to me dated 16/1/2008 regarding Magnatec Professional:
" Hi David.
Thank you for your e-mail enquiry regarding Magnatec Professional 5W/40.
The base oil is Grp 111 (hydrocraked, high Viscosity Index).
Most oils whether mineral, semi or full synthetic would be compatible to mix.
If you have any further enquiries please contact the Technical Helpline on 1300 557 998, Mon - Fri, 8.30am - 5.00pm."
Regards,
Product Applications & Projects
Castrol Lubricants
ph: 1300 557 998
fax: 03 9268 4394"
Based on all the above:
1. Castrol Magnatec is NOT a Synthetic Oil exactly as I stated. It is a Semi-Synthetic
at best;
2. Castrol Magnatec Professional is NOT a Synthetic Oil. It is a Group III Dino Oil
I am not in the habit of using products that I have not thoroughly researched
BTW. My name is Dave if you read my signature
Regards