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IDZRVIT · 02-09-2010, 08:51 PM

A quick search for the test method to certify API SM (dino or synthetic) oil is as follows:

A key new test for GF-4, which is also required for API SM, is the Sequence IIIG, which involves running a 3.8 L (232 in³), GM 3.8 L V-6 at 125 hp (93 kW), 3,600 rpm, and 150 °C (300 °F) oil temperature for 100 hours. These are much more severe conditions than any API-specified oil was designed for: cars which typically push their oil temperature consistently above 100 °C (212 °F) are most turbocharged engines, along with most engines of European or Japanese origin, particularly small capacity, high power output.
The IIIG test is about 50% more difficult[10] than the previous IIIF test, used in GF-3 and API SL oils. Engine oils bearing the API starburst symbol since 2005 are ILSAC GF-4 compliant."

So, for all you guys who think oil temps are an issue you need not worry unless you run your engine all day long well above 260F. I submit that Nissan designed their engine to go into limp mode above 280F to prevent engine damage based on the newest oil standard quoted above. In another ten years it will probably even higher.

02-09-2010, 08:51 PM	#26 (permalink)
IDZRVIT A True Z Fanatic Join Date: May 2009 Location: Halifax Posts: 1,659 Drives: '13 CTS-V, '76 Vette Rep Power: 27	A quick search for the test method to certify API SM (dino or synthetic) oil is as follows: A key new test for GF-4, which is also required for API SM, is the Sequence IIIG, which involves running a 3.8 L (232 in³), GM 3.8 L V-6 at 125 hp (93 kW), 3,600 rpm, and 150 °C (300 °F) oil temperature for 100 hours. These are much more severe conditions than any API-specified oil was designed for: cars which typically push their oil temperature consistently above 100 °C (212 °F) are most turbocharged engines, along with most engines of European or Japanese origin, particularly small capacity, high power output. The IIIG test is about 50% more difficult[10] than the previous IIIF test, used in GF-3 and API SL oils. Engine oils bearing the API starburst symbol since 2005 are ILSAC GF-4 compliant." So, for all you guys who think oil temps are an issue you need not worry unless you run your engine all day long well above 260F. I submit that Nissan designed their engine to go into limp mode above 280F to prevent engine damage based on the newest oil standard quoted above. In another ten years it will probably even higher. __________________ "America.... still builds rockets!" Vette: 355 cid, 400 rwhp '13 CTS-V Coupe: 6.2L LSA, 556HP