Demistifying CK-4 and FA-4 oils: What you need to know about compatibility, and more
The most important thing that fleets need to know about CK-4 oils, according to Len Badal, global commercial brand manager for Chevron Lubricants, is that they are fully compatible, and there should be no concern if the two are mixed…
Fuels and oil: Finding truth in the noise
We live in a confusing age. Considerable information is available thanks to the internet, but there is no easy way of assessing its validity. Anyone can make a statement on the internet—and it is up to us to decide the truth of the statement. Let’s take a look at some recent claims that impact your
Fumoto releases SX-series engine oil drain valve
Fumoto has released the next-generation version of its SX-series engine oil drain valves, with new features. The new valves are comprised of two distinct yet fully integrated parts: the through bolt and oil-flow control body. The SX can rotate 360°, which allows orientation to achieve a smaller profile and maximum protection. The through bolt design can be
Shell Rotella updates portfolio to meet API CK-4 and FA-4 categories
Shell Lubricants has introduced a new portfolio of Shell Rotella heavy-duty diesel engine oils. New Shell Rotella T4 Triple Protection 15W-40 and 10W-30 along with Shell Rotella T5 Synthetic Blend 10W-30 are formulated to meet the specification criteria for the new API CK-4 service category for diesel engine oil. New Shell Rotella API FA-4 oils
The skinny on low-viscosity oils
The North American Council for Freight Efficiency (NACFE) has released its Confidence Report on low-viscosity oils. It begins with the premise that truck engine mechanical losses occur from pumping and friction and consume approximately 16% of the total energy input of the vehicle. Lower-viscosity oils (those with less internal resistance to flow) will reduce these
Corn-based ethanol: A case study in fuel follies
When I consider the renewable fuels legislative mess our states have created, I’m appalled. The lack of a coherent national energy policy has provided fuel (pun intended) for institutions as the Renewable Fuels Association, which is still trying to convince us that corn-based ethanol is a viable alternate fuel. We’ve also enabled state environmental agencies,
Three new ways oils will be identified and utilized
This December we get a little extra bonus: Three changes in the way lube oils are identified and utilized. First, the API will discontinue the use of the term “energy conserving” on their SL and SM passenger car motor oils (PCMO). The term is discontinued because the engine parts needed to run the laboratory engine
Mainstay Fuel Technologies introduces CNG fuel storage and delivery system
Mainstay Fuel Technologies introduces its back-of-cab on-board CNG fuel storage and delivery system. Utilizing Type IV cylinders and related technology, the systems have wide range capabilities, allow for faster, more efficient fills and incorporate robust safety features. They include: Stored capacity: 165 DGE; Range in miles from 650–800; Frame design and tank array offers balance
Driving to maximize fuel economy
While working at Shell Oil Co.’s Wood River Research facilities, my engineering team was tasked with determining relationships between gasoline composition and drivability and fuel economy. This would be much easier today due to the impressive electronic devices available, but in 1969, we had to do things the hard way. I developed a cyclical operational
Roush CleanTech develops propane autogas fuel system for the Ford F-750
Roush CleanTech has developed a propane autogas fuel system for the Ford F-750 chassis that the company says costs less than similar diesel counterparts. Operating up to 33,000 GVWR, the company says that the model was created in response to the growing demand for an autogas-fueled medium-duty chassis for bobtail applications, cylinder delivery trucks, and
The importance of being proactive during alternative fuel tank specification
What are the questions should be posed to a fuel system integrator regarding fuel tanks during the specification process? Here are three to consider.
Valvoline introduces Cobalt Grease for extreme environments
Valvoline is introducing Valvoline Cobalt Grease with Pressure Activated Technology, a new grease with a unique viscosity delivery system. Valvoline Cobalt Grease reduces friction and can handle heat in extreme environments, according to the company, who added that the Pressure Activated Technology allows Valvoline Cobalt Grease to deliver ISO 1000 lubricating fluid, ensuring EP protection and sufficient film
