Synthetic Oils Vary In Chemistry & Performance

Digging into the world of chemistry also reveals why some synthetics oils are superior to others.

A large group of synthetic products are classified as "diesters". These base stocks DO have a solution of identical molecules. However, these molecules ALSO contain oxygen atoms, making the molecules polar. (Here we get a little technical.)

The polarity of these molecules decreases seal compatibility, increasing the chance of oil seal swelling, shrinking or distortion - not a good thing. Polarity also affects additive solubility, reducing the degree to which additives mix and work with the oil. Finally, polarity affects hydrolytic stability, or increases chemical breakdown resulting from contact with water molecules - also not a good thing.

There is one company that has avoided these deficiencies by using polyalphaolefin base stocks. That company is AMSOIL. PAO oils are non-polar and completely saturated. That is one of the reasons why Amsoil consistently rates with the "best of the best" in independent lab tests using standardized test procedures.

Another reason is that Amsoil refuses to cut corners in their use of additives. They consistently use the best possible additive packages. Each product contains additives designed to best reinforce oil function for a specific, targeted application. No "one size fits all" here!

Amsoil was THE pioneer in synthetic automobile lubricants in the United States. Today they are THE pioneer of high performance synthetic lubricants for the motorcycle industry. Their aggressive research and development department is outstanding.