Oil Weight
Oil Weights
The “weight” of the oil is really a determination of the oil’s viscosity (resistance to flow) at different temperatures. Testing organizations like API (American Petroleum Institute) and SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) prescribe specific tests that must be performed in order to determine the “weight” of the oil. The tests are performed at 0° F and at 212° F and the relative viscosities are provided at these temperatures. For example, a 10W-40 oil has a 10 rating at 0° F and a 40 rating at 212° F. In general, motor oil likes to thicken in cold weather and thin in warm weather. The more resistant to thickening, the lower the first number (in front of the “W”). Conversely, the more resistant to thinning, the higher the second number.
The good news here is automobile manufacturers usually provide two recommended weights of oil, depending on climate. Someone in Florida will likely use oil that resists thinning at higher temperatures compared to someone who drives in Pennsylvania. Typically for northern climates the recommended oil weights are 5W or 0W due to cold weather startups.
MOCO Express stocks 5W-20, 5W-30 and 0W-20 in volume. These three weights of oil represent 90% of the manufacturer’s suggested oils for northern climates. Of course, MOCO will accommodate any customer’s wishes, so just tell us what your preference is and we will get it for you.
