also doesn't biodegradable like pao, or have poor lubrication property's like pao, pros and cons with every base oil. That's why i like to see at approvals(end product)and price. But that's me
Most base oils are poor lubricants, PAO is very similar to Group III, both bases are very "dry" having poor solvency, you are splitting hairs trying to compare something like lubrication between the two. PAO is not very biodegradable, is that what you meant?
PAO has several strengths:
- Oxidation resistance (though this can be overcome with Group III via antioxidants)
- Cold temperature performance (this is unrivalled)
- Low volatility
- High natural VI's (this is particularly true for some of the newer PAO's)
But of course it has weaknesses as well:
- Poor solubility (requiring blending with something that improves this)
- Seal shrink tendency (requires blending with something that improves this)
- Expensive
PAO can be a good choice if you are trying to blend a 0W-xx, since it will allow you to use a heavier base and reduce or eliminate reliance on PPD's. But, it also drives up the blending cost considerably as it is expensive, as is counteracting its inherent weaknesses through the addition of other components.
PAO makes far less sense in oils that aren't shooting for the 0W-xx Winter grade since Group III and PPD's can get you there for less money and antioxidants can match or even beat the oxidation resistance levels and then you don't have the struggle with seal shrink.