It's been my observation, and maybe I'm wrong, that in most engines you get the better fuel economy with say 0W-20 only up until the oil and engine come up to operating temperature. At operating temperature there isn't much fuel economy to be had versus 0W-40, unless we're talking about very light throttle application in a controlled testing environment. However, out there on the open road, while under load, pulling a trailer, the 0W-40 will undoubtedly provide better wear protection and more margin for fuel dilution than your garden variety 0W-20.
I watched the entire video, start to finish. The Hurricane inline six has Euro-Engineering vibes. Alan Falkowski made some generalized statements about how good thin oils have become, describing oil manufacturers almost like miracle workers. He also made the case that people should use the Start/Stop technology that comes with the Hurricane Engine. I don't like it when people, especially engineers, make generalized statements without backing those statements with data.
For anyone who doesn't want to spend time watching the entire video, I broke it down by topics with time stamps:
- Introduction to the interview with Alan Falkowski on the development of the Hurricane engine, its features, and its use in upcoming vehicles like the 2025 Ram 1500 and Dodge Charger. Alan shares insights on the transition from the Hemi engine to the Hurricane engine, emphasizing the importance of meeting modern performance and regulatory requirements. (Start of video)
- Discussion on engine design and decision-making around the inline-six configuration for the Hurricane engine. Alan explains the balance between power, fuel efficiency, and smooth operation, highlighting the benefits of turbocharging and the engine's fit in various vehicles. (Timestamp: 03:45)
- Insights into the development process and challenges faced in creating the Hurricane engine. Alan touches on the evolution of engine design tools, the reduction in prototyping, and the shift towards more efficient manufacturing processes. (Timestamp: 08:20)
- Deep dive into engine durability and reliability, addressing common concerns about turbocharged engines. Alan explains how modern design and testing methodologies ensure the Hurricane engine's reliability, even under extreme conditions. (Timestamp: 12:30)
- Cooling systems and oil management for the Hurricane engine. The conversation covers the engine's cooling strategies, the importance of using the right oil, and the extended oil change intervals made possible by advancements in oil technology. (Timestamp: 18:55)
- The role of oil in engine performance and longevity, with a focus on the latest oil standards and recommendations for the Hurricane engine. Alan dispels myths about oil change frequencies and emphasizes the benefits of modern synthetic oils. (Timestamp: 24:10)
- Discussion on the absence of a traditional dipstick in favor of oil level sensors and the rationale behind this decision. Alan reassures viewers about the reliability and convenience of modern oil monitoring systems. (Timestamp: 29:35)
- Engine break-in process and the minimal need for early oil changes with modern engines. Alan explains how advancements in engine materials and manufacturing have reduced the need for a traditional break-in period. (Timestamp: 33:50)
- Exploration of start-stop technology and starter motor durability. Alan addresses concerns about the impact of start-stop systems on starter motor wear, explaining how modern starters are designed to handle the increased demand. (Timestamp: 38:15)
- Alan's perspective on common misconceptions and the evolution of engine technology. He wishes for a broader understanding of the advancements in oil technology and engine design that allow for longer oil change intervals and more efficient operation. (Timestamp: 43:20)
