I just finished reading this article for the second time and it really changed the way that I think about oil. I was on the right track in some ways, but still part of the vast majority of people that don't understand how oil really functions. I don't claim to fully understand it know, but think I'm a lot closer than I was.
It appears that the difference in viscosity of motor oils at normal operating temperatures are very similar, but the difference in viscosity of motor oils at startup temperatures is significant. Startup wear is significant on engines so it only make sense to choose an oil that will minimize startup wear.
My new-to-me 2008 Honda Civic is rated for 5w-20 so it'll be an easy choice to go for synthetic 0w-20 as long as the OLM allows me to go far enough to justify the extra cost compared to a conventional 5w-20.
My 2004 Sequoia is rated for 5w30 and I'm now considering going with a 5w-20 since it will be driven a lot less now that we have the Civic. Continuing with synthetics doesn't make financial sense at this point so will likely make the same choice that AE Haas did with his SUV.
Is there anyone that has read and understood this article and still thinks that thicker oil is better? If so, I'm really interested to hear from you. What is your justification? Obviously, AE Haas gave a few specific situations where thicker can be better, but it sure sounds like thinner is better in general.
It appears that the difference in viscosity of motor oils at normal operating temperatures are very similar, but the difference in viscosity of motor oils at startup temperatures is significant. Startup wear is significant on engines so it only make sense to choose an oil that will minimize startup wear.
My new-to-me 2008 Honda Civic is rated for 5w-20 so it'll be an easy choice to go for synthetic 0w-20 as long as the OLM allows me to go far enough to justify the extra cost compared to a conventional 5w-20.
My 2004 Sequoia is rated for 5w30 and I'm now considering going with a 5w-20 since it will be driven a lot less now that we have the Civic. Continuing with synthetics doesn't make financial sense at this point so will likely make the same choice that AE Haas did with his SUV.
Is there anyone that has read and understood this article and still thinks that thicker oil is better? If so, I'm really interested to hear from you. What is your justification? Obviously, AE Haas gave a few specific situations where thicker can be better, but it sure sounds like thinner is better in general.
