Have you taken the time to consider the best base oil for each vehicle in your fleet? If you’re using the same oil for a variety of service equipment types, or just taking your best guess at the right base oil and lubricant to use, then you’re risking damage and the additional wear-and-tear that could be prevented by making better choices.
If you own or operate a fleet of vehicles, it’s more than likely you have a number of different equipment types to maintain. It’s rare to find a fleet of vehicles that are all the same make and model, much less the same age and condition. And just as you have different types of vehicles, you need different base oils to meet the need. It’s a common misconception that synthetic oils are one-size-fits all, or just “close enough” to meet the needs of the whole fleet.
In a previous article, we covered what you need to know about base oils in lubricants to maximize fleet efficiency. Today we’re going to cover practical matters about how to make the best choice in base oils and lubricants for the vehicles in your fleet, depending on factors such as age, use, and wear.
First, let’s clear up some misconceptions about synthetic base oils.
When to choose a synthetic oil
Many people in the industry assume that synthetic oils are the best choice for all industrial applications. And while it is true that synthetic base oils in lubricants are useful to weather extreme conditions and in off-highway applications, it’s simply not true that synthetics are the best choice in all settings.
Still, synthetics are gaining popularity both in industrial settings and on-highway. For that reason, it makes sense to review the benefits and drawbacks to choosing a synthetic base oils in lubricants.
Pros
– Better fuel efficiency
– Longer drain intervals
– Better wear protection in longer-term applications
– Better frictional performance
Cons
– More expensive, and costs go up with change frequency
– Not the best choice for short-drive applications, or any time you see contamination issues
– Not always compatible with seals, filters, and paints in equipment, and/or previously used mineral oil
Sound like what you need? That’s great, but keep in mind that the determination for use of a base oil should be made on a case-by-case (and vehicle by vehicle) basis. Use of mineral base oils in lubricants still have some serious benefits in a number of cases.
When to choose a mineral base oil for your fuel fleet service
Do you have a vehicle in the fleet that is used for a lot of shorter driving trips? Any time you have a vehicle that you’re starting and stopping with frequency, you have a good candidate for the use of a mineral base oil.
It makes sense if we review the basics. Engines that get use that requires them to heat up and cool down quickly will generate condensation that causes water contamination. Additionally, this type of use leads to unavoidable fuel dilution.
Contamination requires more frequent oil changes, in which case mineral base oils and lubricants become a more cost-effective choice. Mineral base oils are less expensive, so frequent changes make it a more cost-effective choice over all.
In construction applications especially, gear boxes and other equipment with efficiency are good candidates for use. Here are the most common pros and cons.
Pros
– Better used in vehicles subject to routine contamination
– Often better for construction or mining equipment
– Less expense, especially with high change applications
Cons
– Less protection in high heat applications
– Not as effective in longer term applications
– Less wear protection overall if used improperly
We hope this information helps when considering the choice to make for your vehicles. As your fuel and lubricant supplier, we have answers to your questions and can make great recommendations. We encourage you to get in touch!
About Us:
It’s always best practice to spend a little time getting to know more about the base oil you choose. And if you need additional information, please know that the team at Greg’s Petroleum Service is here to help. As your fuel and lubricant supplier in Bakersfield, Fresno, San Luis Obispo, Santa Clarita or Ventura, California areas, we are available to help answer any questions you might have. Visit us online or give us a call to learn more.