Should you add zinc to your engine oil?
However, if you’re looking to add Zinc, there are of Zinc additives, that, when coupled with your favorite oil, provide the protection you need. For starters, STP oil treatment, that little blue bottle you might have seen on AutoZone shelves, contains a considerable amount of Zinc necessary for an older engine.
Why isn’t zinc or ZDDP in modern motor oil?
Zinc acts as a friction inhibitor, and research suggests that older engines using “flat tappet” lifters in the engine (pretty much any V6 or V8 older than 1988) need to have zinc present in the engine oil in order to keep the camshaft and lifters from wearing prematurely. So why isn’t Zinc or ZDDP in modern motor oil? Herein lies the problem.
Do I need a zinc additive with my Sm oil?
New SM oils are just not going to cut it unless they have a zinc additive to boost the rating and one of the zinc supplements should be used with these oils or oils containing additional ZDDP additives are recommended.
What kind of oil do you use for zinc and phosphorus?
Some enthusiasts have recommended using commercially rated CI-4 15W40 diesel oil to meet the zinc and phosphorus additive requirement; however, CI-4 is an old specification and hard to locate. You can see that the CJ-4 specification that now supersedes it is well below acceptable levels.
What does adding zinc to oil do?
The primary role of motor oil with zinc added to it is to ensure that there is no metal-to-metal contact occuring between parts of your engine. The oil accomplishes this by creating a protective film between parts.
Can I add zinc additive to synthetic oil?
It is compatible with all conventional and synthetic oils intended for automotive use. By adding a small 4 ounce bottle of it at every oil change, an adequate amount of Zinc and Phosphorus will continue to protect your engine.
When did they stop putting zinc in oil?
1994As most enthusiasts should be aware, new car manufacturers reduced the level of zinc and phosphorous (also called zinc dithiophosphate, or ZDDP) in engine oil beginning in 1994. This change demanded a new oil designation from the American Petroleum Institute (API), which has now evolved to the current SN designation.
What motor oil still contain zinc?
Castrol motor oil contains a zinc compound, zinc dialkyl dithiophosphate(ZDDP). This oil additive provides better anti-wear protection in your engine, especially the high load areas like the camshaft and lifters.
Why was zinc removed from motor oil?
However, because the zinc and phosphorus found in ZDDP can negatively affect catalytic converters, it has been phased out of motor oil formulations in recent years.
Does Rotella oil still have zinc?
Most Shell Rotella engine oils, including T6 5W-40 Full Synthetic Heavy Duty Diesel Engine Oil, contain approximately 1200 ppm of zinc which will benefit older and high-performance engines.
Does Mobil 1 synthetic oil have zinc in it?
With double the zinc* level of current low-viscosity, API-approved passenger car oils, Mobil 1 Racing oils form a protective sacrificial layer on steel surfaces to protect against engine wear during metal-to-metal contact.
Does Rotella t4 oil have zinc in it?
The answer: "Shell Rotella T Multigrade Oil SAE 15W-40 with Triple Protection Technology, our API CJ-4/SM specification product, typically contains about 1200 ppm zinc and 1100 ppm phosphorous as manufactured."
Does synthetic oil contain ZDDP?
And the zinc we're talking about isn't isn't pure zinc, but a compound of either zinc dialkyldithiophosphate (ZDDP) or zinc dithiophosphate (ZDTP). If you are using mineral-based oil, ZDDP is in it, while synthetic oil, which is usually preferable, includes ZDTP.
How much ZDDP is too much?
The general recommended level seems to be around the 1400-1500 mark, but that's just what the general consensus seems to be. The Lucas additive is much higher than most seem to recommend, but that won't be a set figure, but when used in xxx amount of engine oil and will vary from that, either higher or lower.
Does Lucas oil additive have zinc?
Addition of 16 oz. to 4.5 quarts motor oil will achieve approximately 5,000 ppm of Zinc. Lucas TB Zinc-Plus Engine Break-In Oil Additive is designed for all who fear the initial break-in period of any new motor, especially if they are running a flat tappet camshaft.
Does Rotella oil have zinc in it?
Most Shell Rotella engine oils, including T6 5W-40 Full Synthetic Heavy Duty Diesel Engine Oil, contain approximately 1200 ppm of zinc which will benefit older and high-performance engines.
Why do you need zinc in your engine oil?
Zinc acts as a friction inhibitor, and research suggests that older engines using “flat tappet” lifters in the engine (pretty much any V6 or V8 older than 1988) need to have zinc present in the engine oil in order to keep the camshaft and lifters from wearing prematurely.
How long does zinc stay in catalytic converter oil?
With the government setting mandates on manufacturers covering the service life of catalytic converters over 100,000 miles, this caused nearly every oil manufacturer over the last 10 years to slowly remove zinc from the ingredients in their oil.
What is Zinc, anyway?
Zinc is the only element that starts with Z, and it’s a vitamin listed on food packaging, which are the two things that make it the most famous. It’s also used to fight corrosion, as a galvanizing agent, is critical to create brass, and shows up in thousands of compounds that affect your everyday life. Check out the Zinc wiki page with 270+ sources to read up on all that.
Does STP oil contain zinc?
For starters, STP oil treatment, that little blue bottle you might have seen on AutoZone shelves, contains a considerable amount of Zinc necessary for an older engine . Two other more recent additions in many stores are the Hy-per lube Zinc additive, and Lucas engine break-in oil additive, which contains a massive amount of zinc.
Is zinc good for flat tappet?
Zinc is not only critical for older flat-tappet engines, but many argue it’s critical for new engine break-in. An engine’s break in period is critical for its long-term success, as everything from main and rod bearings, to rings, cams and oil pump are getting adjusted to their new life. Remember, if you have an older vehicle, whether it’s a 1966 Mustang or a 1979 Ford pickup, it’s a good idea to put zinc into the oil.
Does Valvoline have zinc?
Currently, very few oils on the market contain zinc – and all of these are designated as “off-road” oils, such as Valvoline racing oil. However, if you’re looking to add Zinc, there are of Zinc additives, that, when coupled with your favorite oil, provide the protection you need.
Does zinc affect catalytic converters?
Herein lies the problem. About 10 years ago, it was also discovered that in general oil consumption, Zinc, especially the phosphorus present in ZDDP, is a primary cause of premature catalytic converter failure. With the government setting mandates on manufacturers covering the service life of catalytic converters over 100,000 miles, this caused nearly every oil manufacturer over the last 10 years to slowly remove zinc from the ingredients in their oil. Diesel oils soon followed suit, until today, no oil that is approved for on-road use contains Zinc. This of course doesn’t affect newer engines with roller lifters or overhead cams at all – but for older engines – it limits the options for oils with ZDDP.
Why Put Zinc in Oil for Old Engines?
Zinc or zinc dialkyl dithiophosphate (ZDDP) in motor oil creates a protective coating on metal surfaces in the engine so it can stand up to the stress put on the camshaft and other components. Your average oil produced today provides enough protection for most cars used in normal operating conditions.
Choosing a Zinc Oil Additive
High zinc oil has many positives, as well as a few cons to keep in mind. The reason why engine manufacturers started asking motor oil companies to reduce ZDDP levels is because it can create build-up in the catalytic converter, which can have a negative impact over time. Oil with lower levels of zinc is also better for the environment.
Get the Engine Protection You Need Today
At Hy-per Lube, we’ve been providing our customers with high-end, stress-tested coolant treatments, lubricants and fuel system cleaners for over 50 years. We’re focused on helping you find the products you need to quickly and inexpensively solve issues with your cars and engines.
When was zinc dithiophosphate first used?
But let’s stick with Zinc or phosphorous when we refer to it. GOSS: Okay, now this has quite a long history in oil. SMITH : Yes, it was first used back in the 1940s , as a corrosion inhibitor to fight lead-copper corrosion.
Is racing oil a problem?
GOSS: Okay, so it is a problem but it isn’t a problem, and if they’re really concerned, buy a racing oil and everything is covered.
Is it a problem to run racing oil after a broken engine?
SMITH : Well it’s not a problem once the engine is broken in. The big issue is when they break the engine in, so if they are rebuilding an older engine they really need to use something like a racing oil where there’s a higher level of phosphorous in it. And racing oils, they can still be the 1,200 parts-per-million and get a good beak in on the engine. After that they are fine at running it at the 800 parts-per-million.
Does zinc dithiophosphate have phosphorus?
SMITH : Yes, the phosphorous in the zinc-dialkyl-dithiophosphate unfortunately performs a phosphate coating in the catalytic converter, and this reduces the efficiency of the catalyst.
When did the oil industry stop phasing out zinc?
For this reason, the industry has been phasing out zinc and phosphorus levels since 1994 , when the American Petroleum Institute's SH designation became the industry standard, and levels have been further reduced in each subsequent API rating for engine oils.
What is zinc dithiophosphate?
When anyone mentions zinc, they are actually referring to zinc dialkyldithiophosphate, a compound invented by Castrol for use in mineral-based oils or zinc di-thiophosphate (ZDTP), which is normally used in synthetic oils. Both have been used as an anti-wear ingredient in engine oil for many years.
What type of oil is used in aviation engines?
Please contrast modern low zinc to older high zinc to aviation oil, which is approved for aviation engines of all vintages. Aviation engines use flat tappet lifters, as well as modern roller tappets, air cooled and water cooled.
Does TCP agains ZDDP make ash inside the engine?
The differencial of TCP agains ZDDP is that, when burnt, it doesn't make ash inside the engine as ZDDP. Ash is a major engine seizurer when overheating and the pilot needs to strech the fight with that melting engine. A part of that, aircraft engines burn more oil for safety issue and greater clearances.
Is Mobil 1 synthetic oil?
However, there are Mobil 1 synthetic oils which have a higher level of phosphorus (phos) and can be used in engines in racing or high performance applications; see the attached table. http://www.mobiloil.com/USA-English/MotorOil/Files/Mobil_1_Product_Guide.pdf. Reply.
Does Royal Purple have zinc?
Royal Purple does however, have good zinc content (1350 ppm for 10W40 and 15W40)added to their mix and is used by many motorcycle enthusiasts. Not quite the content of our Hemmings oil, but definitely in our same neighborhood. Hemmings Oil is available on our website, but is not sold in other auto supply stores.
Does PS oil absorb moisture?
PS...Oil can absorb moisture from the Atmosphere too. If you have a vehicle you dont drive alot,like a classic, then be sure you let the motor run until it gets good and hot to burn it off.
Why do classic cars need zinc oil?
Zinc Oil Additive: Why Your Classic Car Needs It. Chances are your classic car needs zinc oil additive to stay running strong. While the formulations of modern oils have changed, along with the innovations that keep the automotive industry moving forward, your older car’s specific lubrication requirements were frozen in time the day it was built.
What is ZDDP in oil?
Fortunately, there are several oil companies that have recognized the need for motor oils that address the concerns of owners with flat tappet camshafts in their cars. Zinc oil additive content , or ZDDP, is typically expressed in parts per million (ppm).
What additives are used in oil cams?
This wasn’t an issue back in the day, because oil manufacturers employed additives called ZDDP and ZDTP, which used zinc and phosphorus, respectively. Together, these heat-activated additives provided protection for hot spots on a cam where metal-on-metal friction was at its maximum.
