Facts you need to know about thin oils in heavy vehicles

By: Armando Landavazo

• Thin oils work correctly in heavy vehicles

5W or 10W oils provide better lubrication than 15W oils. The thinner the oil, it reaches the place where it should arrive and lubricates the engine faster and more effectively than a thicker oil. Reduced wear and tear can contribute to reduced gasoline consumption.

• Oil is important for the emission control system

Protects the life of emission control system in construction vehicles and other heavy vehicles. The right oil reduces the risk of clogging diesel particles in the filters.

• Viscosity level affects engine starting

In a truck engine, each degree of viscosity improves the start by 5 degrees. On a very cold winter day, a 5W oil improves the start by 10 degrees, compared to a 15W oil.

• Oil can act as a "Heater in your garage"

With thinner engine oil, you avoid keeping the engine idling during colder days. This oil improves the start, and reduces wear, that is why it is called "Heater in your garage" and of course avoiding the inactivity of a running engine without working represents good news for your finances and the environment.

• Oil flows faster and longer in a truck engine

The oil covers 9.5 meters when traveling throughout the engine, therefore, it is crucial that there is no soot or oxidation that obstructs the flow of the oil. Due to the constant flow, each engine component is driven and lubricated by 135 liters of oil per minute.

• It is important to change the antifreeze on a regular basis

It is important not only to add new glycol, but also to change it completely.  For the best types of antifreeze, the rule is to drain the system completely and change it every 3 to 5 years. Changing the glycol will ensure that the corrosion system works and takes care of the life of the water pump.

• Motor oil requirements have been increased

In context, the emission requirements for heavy vehicles have increased dramatically in the last 30 years, for nitrogen oxides by almost 90%. This has been achieved thanks to the great changes in the construction of engines, which has generated more complicated requirements in motor oils.  They must have the ability to deal with an increase in the harsher environment and take care of the post-treatment life, primarily the Diesel particulate filter. 

• Thin oils make the difference in the gearbox and rear axles

If you're used to having oil lumps in your gearbox, it's very easy to avoid them. Also, in transfer cases and differentials, the thin oil helps reduce wear, while gasoline consumption is also reduced thanks to low viscosity in the powertrain.

Your FUCHS representative can also help you with the selection, considering all the unique requirements of your vehicle. You can contact us at any time.