I did a search and came up with a lot of conversation but no clear direction.

It is my understanding that synthetics are "better" lubricants in "every way" and by any measure. Is that true?

Does anybody know of a product comparison article/report that compares the different brands of synthetics?

Most people that are using a syn are using Mobil 1 but they say that their choice is based on cost. Are all synthetics that close in performance?

The auto trans fluid type T iv is a little scary to substitute. AIMESOIL says "use their synthetic atf". I will call Toy. but I am really interested in your experience.

Thanks for your help.

John

 

I have been using Mobil in all my I/C engines for about 15 years now. This includes my Harley, Honda mower, power washer, etc.
To me there are two advantages of Syn oil. First it allows you to extend the change intervals a bit compared to dino oil and secondly it has a higher temp rating than dino. This is especially important on air cooled engines like my Harley.

In reality, as long as you change your oil and filter on a regular change interval, dino oil is fine.
I prefer to change it less often. I do mostly highway miles and change it at 7500 miles. No problems at 160k.

THe only people telling you to change it every 3k are those selling the oil.

JimA

 

You have to study really close to see if one synthetic is better than another.

I spend a lot of time over at www.bobistheoilguy.com in their forums.

For years I was using Mobil 1 (and in several grades), but I had consumption issue with the oil over the last year along with several other friends and family members. Last week I switched to German Castrol 0W30 and I am enjoying it very much so far, more MPG and feels like much better compression. However, Amsoil is a another good quality oil. In the end, it depends on budget and what you want to do with your vehicle. For me, price is no issue but availability where I live is.

As far as Amsoil ATF, several people in our RX300 forum have used this without any issue and have actually reported better performance. If I could get my hand on this stuff in Mexico, I would use in a hearbeat, but unfortunately no distributor.

 

John,
You can read this article, http://www.calsci.com/motorcycleinfo/Oils1.html
But to find out what is the best brand, weight for you engine and driving style, you have to do an Used Oil Analysis.
Most of the synthetic sold in auto parts stores are technically based on highly refined base oil from petroleum crude oil. They are marketed as synthetic, this includes Pennzoil Platinum, Castrol Syntec (except 0w-30 made in Germany), now Mobil 1 (at least 5w-30 EP and 15w-50 EP).
Unless you are buying German Castrol, just about every engine oil OTC is mineral based oil. The comparasion should be focused on which oil has the better additive package, which is also an important factor to determine quality and performance of an engine oil. Which one has the better additive package? Do an UOA!