Oils and lubes 26 www.aftermarketonline.net JULY/AUGUST 2024 Verification of Lubricant Specifications chairman Harald Oosting advises why engine oil selection is so critical when working on classic car engines and how to identify the right product Classic cars are a wonderful part of our automotive heritage and a joy to welcome into your workshop. But they may present more of a challenge when it comes to servicing. Classic cars can be quite unique, with different levels of modernisation, and parts can be hard to source. Engine oil requires careful attention as well. Lubricant technology has evolved significantly over recent decades to meet government requirements for reduced emissions and consumer needs for economy and performance. In modern vehicles, smaller capacity engines are running at higher power outputs to maximise efficiency, deliver fuel economy and reduce emissions. Longer oil drain intervals, taken together with smaller sumps, have created the need for less viscous, synthetic or semisynthetic oils to provide the lubrication required in these challenging conditions. The latest formulations of highly efficient, ultra-low viscosity lubricants, such as SAE 0W-16, may not be suitable for classic vehicles. Higher viscosity products such as SAE 20W-50 might be required, as classic car engines are generally lower revving. Backwards compatibility of modern engine oils in terms of SAE viscosity and the performance specifications claimed cannot be assumed. Many lubricant manufacturers offer a range of classic car engine oils specifically designed to meet the needs of older engines. These higher viscosity oils include a unique blend of additives with detergent and dispersant properties to ensure good lubricant film strength and smooth running while protecting engine components and ensuring that any unwanted contaminants end up in the sump instead of harming components. Engine additives have also been developed for classic cars. However, lubricant technology is a fine balance of chemistry. At VLS, we don’t recommend the addition of standalone additives if the engine oil is used in line with the manufacturer recommendations and service intervals are maintained, as they may interfere with the workings of oils that have been already specifically designed for classic engines. For modern vehicles, choosing the right engine oil is made much easier by online vehicle databases that allow you to search by the vehicle number plate. Classic car oil finders are also available, which can help identify the right oil for the classic cars in your workshop. If in doubt, refer to the original vehicle handbook or the servicing and warranty handbook, contact the OEM or consult a lubricant manufacturer that produces its own range of classic car oils. Their technical department should be able to advise if an oil is suitable for your application. Whether it’s a cherished classic or an innovative hybrid, using the wrong oil really does matter. It risks accelerated wear to gears, bearings and other vital components. Left unchecked, it could lead to eventual engine failure, meaning higher maintenance costs for your customers and potential damage to your business’ reputation. Don’t run the risk. Take time to check that the engine oil you select is suitable for that particular vehicle and consult external sources of information or suppliers if needed. VLS is an independent organisation providing a credible and trusted means to verify lubricant specifications, bringing transparency to the lubricant market place and protecting and educating end users. www.ukla-vls.org.uk Classic protection
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