for a rookie guy what means TBN and what is used for ?
TBN 101
- Thread starter Yannick
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In simple terms, many describe the Total Base Number (TBN) of an engine oil to be something akin to a "Tums" used to neutralize the acids in ones stomach. And to this end, the higher the base number, the greater is the lubricants ability to neutralize acids. At the same time, it should be noted that like "Tums: too much of anything is not necessarily good. In fact, whereas an overtreat of calcium sulfonate may be beneficial in neutralizing the acidic by-product of combustion, too much can generate higher levels of ash which can be damaging to an engine.
In an effort to strike a balance, the total base number of a new oil is typically in the range of 7 to 10 for gas engines and 10 to 14 for diesel engines. When the TBN in a used oil drops below 3, it typically indicates the need for an oil change.
In an effort to strike a balance, the total base number of a new oil is typically in the range of 7 to 10 for gas engines and 10 to 14 for diesel engines. When the TBN in a used oil drops below 3, it typically indicates the need for an oil change.
TAN is similar for other gear oils like ATF of diff. gear oil.
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