Myths may be entertaining to tell and listen to, from Hercules legends to New York's sewer alligators. Whether or whether such fanciful stories are true, there's always a part of you that wonders. Is it possible for lightning to hit the same spot twice? Is it possible that dropping a penny from the Empire State Building may harm someone? Is it possible to transition between synthetic and traditional oil? While some myths are relatively innocuous, others have the potential to do significant harm if believed. (Get this: lightning may hit the same spot twice, and it happens all the time!) So put the urban tale to rest. Follow along as we clarify some of the most popular oil change fallacies so that your engine can run stronger, cleaner, and longer!
1. You need thicker truck oil for better protection
This is one of the most popular vehicle maintenance fallacies. To begin with, it is the anti-wear additives in the motor oil composition, not the viscosity grade, that give optimum wear protection. Using too thick motor oil might reduce engine efficiency. Lower viscosity grades are recommended for greater fuel efficiency and tighter tolerances in current and newer trucks. Always use the viscosity grade specified in the owner's handbook for your vehicle.
2. Synthetic oil is slippery, and it can cause leaks
When synthetic motor oil was initially introduced in the 1970s, it spawned a few synthetic oil myths. Unfortunately, regardless of their veracity, these falsehoods have persisted. For example, some drivers assume that since synthetic motor oil is slicker, it causes your engine to leak—this is entirely false! Slipperiness is determined by the viscosity grade of the motor oil, independent of the kind. Your engine will not leak if you use synthetic oil. In severe temperatures, synthetic motor oil protects your engine better. When it comes to engine oil, always stick to the manufacturer's recommendations.
3. It is not possible to switch from synthetic oil to mineral oil
Another common misunderstanding is that you can't transition from synthetic to regular oil. Here's the official word: switching back and forth between conventional and synthetic oil is OK. There was no damage done! Furthermore, motor lubricants branded as a synthetic blend already include a mix of traditional and synthetic oil. When it comes to engine oil, always stick to the manufacturer's recommendations.
Extra myth - You should change the oil immediately if the color is black
The primary cause of motor oil darkening is oxidation, which occurs significantly faster when the oil is subjected to high engine temperatures. Motor oil darkens when by-products of combustion are absorbed, indicating that your engine oil is doing its job! Always replace your oil according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
Final words
Ensure that you keep these myths in mind and don't fall for them. Then you will be able to take good care of your truck.