1. What drain interval is recommended for Delvac® 1?
Delvac 1 is designed for greatly extended drain intervals. However, oil drains should be determined based on your anticipated operating conditions, driving habits and other maintenance schedules in mind.
Large, over-the-road trucks (class 8) may extend drain intervals based predominantly on driving highway miles, which are relatively easy on an engine, and using an approved Mobil Oil Analysis Program. Generally, extended drains for these large trucks are done in conjunction with the engine manufacturer and oil supplier. Delvac 1 has provided excellent service at up to four times the normal drain interval under these conditions. We also have closely monitored and controlled fleets performing Mobil Delvac 1 oil drains at up to 100,000 miles.
Off-highway units may experience much more variable operating conditions (predominantly loads and dusty conditions). Delvac 1 has provided excellent service in extended drains for off-highway units, but we recommend that you monitor fuel consumption, in addition to operating hours, to keep watch on engine loads. Also, either have a comprehensive air filter maintenance program and/or used oil analysis more frequently to monitor for dust ingestion by the engine. For specific instructions on extending drain intervals, refer to the Mobil Extended Drain Policy Guide, available by calling our Customer Response Center at 1-800-Mobil 25 (662-4525).
2. How will Delvac 1 affect my engine life?
Mobil Delvac 1 will provide excellent engine life -- even at extended drain intervals -- when used with appropriate maintenance practices. The performance capabilities of Mobil Delvac 1 allow you to gain productivity (through fewer oil changes) and profitability (through lower fuel consumption), while you get excellent engine protection (through exceptional lubricating characteristics at both low and high temperatures). Delvac 1 will help significantly extend engine life when compared to other conventional engine oils.
3. How will Delvac 1 affect my oil consumption?
Our experience -- and that of many of the fleets and owner operators currently using Mobil Delvac 1 -- is that oil consumption decreases. The synthesized base stock in Delvac 1 is much more stable and consistent versus conventional base stocks that have a broader mix of petroleum components. The combination of resistance to oxidation and reduced evaporation at high temperatures, as well as the consistency of the synthetic base stock, results in less oil being consumed.
Be aware, however, that if your engine burns oil today due to a mechanical condition, Mobil Delvac 1 will also probably experience high oil consumption. There is no substitute for fixing mechanical problems.
4. How will Delvac 1 affect my fuel consumption?
The exceptional lubrication properties of Mobil Delvac 1, coupled with the superior flow characteristics at low temperatures, can provide you with up to a 3 percent improvement in fuel economy or more. Individual tractor units may see variation based on driving habits and driving conditions -- but fleets that measure fuel economy using a well designed test program have seen improvements of 2 to 5 percent after changing to Delvac 1.
5. How will Delvac 1 affect my oil pressure?
The efficient lubrication properties and easy pumpability of Mobil Delvac 1 may result in a slightly lower oil pressure versus your conventional oil. As long as the oil pressure is stable, there is no reason to be concerned.
6. What do engine manufacturers say about Mobil Delvac 1 (or synthetics in general)?
The majority of engine manufacturers today specify in their owner's manuals an API quality rating oil, such as CH-4 or CI-4, without specifying or restricting the use of synthetics.
Several engine and equipment manufacturers either sell or will be selling synthetic oils as a maintenance option for equipment owners interested in extended drains and exceptional engine protection. Another major engine builder introduced a synthetic engine oil to its dealer network in 1997. Cummins has marketed a partial synthetic oil for some time.
In all cases, we recommend that you discuss your plans for extending oil drains for equipment under warranty with the dealer and your ExxonMobil Representative.
7. Who is using synthetic engine oils today that I could contact to discuss their experiences?
There are many large, medium and small fleets currently using Delvac 1. Contact your Mobil representative or call the call the Technical Response Center at 1-800-622-4525 for specific contacts in your area.
8. Why don't other oil companies sell a synthetic engine oil?
Some do, but many others do not have the capability and technology associated with the Mobil brand. Several engine manufacturers, including Detroit Diesel, are starting to sell synthetic engine oils as well. Because Mobil is a world leader in synthetic lubricant technology, we have been leading the market in synthetic product introductions and have put more visibility on synthetics than other suppliers.
With the drive to increase productivity, reduce costs, increase profitability and desire to use less oil, the market is now, more than ever, ready for synthetic technology.
9. How often do I need to change the oil filter if I am extending my oil drains?
If you use a high quality extended service oil filter, you can go 60,000 miles between filter changes. See the Mobil Filter Guidelines for more information. We strongly recommend that if you are interested in maximum oil drains and maximum engine protection, you should buy high quality oil filters, and discuss filter change recommendations with your filter supplier or retailer.
You can now find the Mobil Delvac Extended Life Oil Filter at Petro Stopping Centers. For most applications, this filter is designed to last as long as Delvac 1.
10. Do any engine manufacturers or truck manufacturers initial fill with synthetic oil?
A major Class 8 truck OEM is considering filling vehicles with Mobil Delvac 1. And, just as synthetics have become the industry standard in transmissions and differentials, we believe that you will see more premium quality trucks come with synthetic engine oil as initial fill.
11. Why doesn't Delvac 1 come in a 15w-40 viscosity grade?
The synthetic base stock used in Delvac 1 naturally has better low-temperature flow characteristics than a conventional engine oil. This results in the SAE 5W grade, which provides easier starting and faster oil flow characteristics than an SAE 15W grade. With the excellent film strength of the synthetic-based stock, and the tuned additive package, we can offer the advantages of better low-temperature performance and improved fuel economy -- while also providing better lubrication protection at hot engine operating conditions than a conventional SAE 15W-40.
12. When can Delvac 1 first be used?
You can start using Delvac 1 in new vehicles at any time. Or, you can start using Delvac 1 in an engine with a number of miles already on it. As long as the engine is in good mechanical condition, you can start to get the advantages of Delvac 1 today. Refer to Mobil's Extended Drain Policy Guide for exceptions (available by calling 1-800-662-4525).
You can also use Delvac 1 in an overhauled or rebuilt engine. However, a rebuilt engine may contain swarf or abrasive material inside the engine. In this situation, you would be best served by using a short drain interval on your initial oil fill. Delvac 1 will still work in this situation, but it would be less expensive to use a conventional oil for this first, short-duration change.
13. Can Delvac 1 be run in gasoline engines?
Delvac 1 is an excellent gasoline engine oil. Delvac 1 meets the API SL service classification, which covers most gasoline automobile engines.
14. Will Delvac 1 change color with use?
It may, depending on the engine. Over the past several years, diesel engines have been designed to minimize the generation of smoke from the engine -- with a considerable amount of this soot being handled by detergents and dispersants in the engine oil. A high-quality diesel engine oil is formulated to handle high soot levels. Delvac 1 may turn black relatively quickly as it does its job, depending on how much soot your engine produces.
Some engine designs have been developed that use engine technology to reduce the formation of soot in the engine- rather than push the soot into the oil. Our experience with these engines shows considerably less oil color change.
15. Can Delvac 1 handle soot over extended drain intervals?
Yes. Mobil Delvac 1 is formulated with high-quality detergents and dispersants, designed to handle the soot loading prevalent in some recent model-year, emission-controlled engines. Delvac 1 has outstanding soot loading capabilities.
16. Is Delvac 1 synthetic?
Yes. Delvac 1 is an advanced technology, high-performance commercial engine oil. It is designed to extend oil-drain intervals and maximize engine life. Delvac 1 is based on a unique combination of components that are specially formulated to meet a wide range of performance criteria.
17. I have been hearing about new base stock technology called hydrocracking or hydroprocessing that is supposed to provide synthetic performance at conventional oil prices. What can you tell me about this?
Hydroprocessing is one of the processes for manufacturing lube basestocks; hydrocracking is a form of hydroprocessing. A wide quality range of basestocks can be, and are, produced by hydroprocessing. The majority of hydroprocessed basestocks produced in the U.S. today, are, for the most part, equivalent to conventionally refined stocks. High-performance lubricants derive their "edge" through their total formulation, using a range of basestock and additive technologies.
We are unaware of any product on the market containing conventional, hydroprocessed or any other stock that matches the performance of Mobil Delvac 1. The performance requirements for a premium engine oil involve a number of criteria, including:
- High- and low-temperature performance, where the unique formulation of Mobil Delvac 1 excels.
- Soot dispersancy,, where our data show that hydrocracked stocks may improve performance versus solvent-refined stocks. Basestocks alone, though, cannot withstand the demands placed on lubricants by modern diesel engine technology. That is why the combination of basestock and additive technology is critical in achieving the performance levels that we, as a company, demand of products like Mobil Delvac 1.
- Cleanliness and wear protection where Mobil Delvac 1 has demonstrated outstanding engine durability performance out to one million miles at extended drains of 60,000-80,000 miles.
18. I am used to running an SAE 40 weight (or 15w-40). Can Delvac 1 be used as a replacement for all 40 weight oils?
"All 40 Weight Oils" is a very broad category. Delvac 1 can be used in engines that call for a 40 weight straight grade or multi-viscosity grade oil meeting API CI-4, CH-4, CG-4, CF-4, CF or CE quality levels. Delvac 1 can be used in engines calling for Mack EO-N, Mack EO-M Plus, EO-M, EO-L Plus or EO-L and Cummins 20078 or CES 20076. Delvac 1 can also be used in gasoline engines that call for an SL, SJ, SH, SG or SF quality oil. That covers a lot of engines.
Delvac 1 is NOT the primary recommendation for Detroit Diesel two-stroke cycle engines (Series 53, 71, 92, 149) which require an SAE 40 mono-grade engine oil.
If you are not sure if Delvac 1 is appropriate for your application, call the Mobil Customer Response Center at 1-800-662-4525.
19. Since Delvac 1 is a 5w-40, will it void warranties if I use it?
No. Delvac 1, because of its high Viscosity Index (VI), provides a better protective film at higher temperatures than conventional SAE 40 weight oils, while remaining fluid at lower temperatures than a conventional SAE 15W weight oil. Mobil Delvac 1 meets all engine manufacturers' requirements where an API CI-4, CH-4, CG-4 or CF-4 oil is recommended.
20. Can used Delvac 1 be recycled the same as other oils?
Used Delvac 1 can and should be treated in the same manner as used conventional motor oil. Do not dispose of any used oil in the trash or pour it on the ground or down the sewer. Take your used oil to an oil recycling center.
21. Where can I buy Delvac 1?
Delvac 1 is available through our nationwide network of Mobil distributors in gallon jugs and 55-gallon drums.
We are gaining more retail distribution at truckstops and truck dealers every day -- and as you ask for the product, the truckstops will carry it.
Contact the Technical Response Center at 1-800-662-4525 for information on your nearest distributor.
22. Can you explain the difference between API service categories CD, CD II, CE, CF, CF-2, CF-4, CG-4 and CH-4?
The American Petroleum Institute (API) has developed a two-letter code to describe quality levels in both gasoline and diesel engine oils. These codes are used by the engine manufacturers in their owner's manuals to identify the appropriate quality of oil to use in their specific engines. The codes can typically be found on the bottle labels for quarts or gallons of engine oil. The C codes are for compression-fired diesel engines. The S codes are for spark-ignited gasoline engines.
Oil quality levels are developed through broad industry agreement involving the oil suppliers and the engine manufacturers. Over the past decade, changes in diesel engine oil quality levels have been primarily driven by restrictions on diesel engine emissions. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) upgraded Clean Air Act (CAA) regulations in 1988, 1991 and 1994. Oil quality (and engine technology) changed in response to these regulations. The most recent implementation date for CAA regulations was in 1998 and the API has established API CH-4 performance levels to address the lubrication needs of engines designed to meet the new EPA emission requirements. In October 2002, most diesel engines will require API CI-4 oil to address the demands of this lower emissions configuration.
Here is a short description of the diesel engine categories, starting with the most current:
CI-4 has been developed to establish a standard for oils that are intended for EGR equipped engines as well as satisfying the needs of engines requiring CH_4, CG-4, CF engine oils. This new CI-4 engine oil category establishes the highest level of oxidation resistance, total base number (TBN) retention and soot dispersancy ever set for an API category.
CH-4 has been developed to address engine design changes required to meet new 1998 EPA emission standards. The performance requirements include handling even higher soot loading than CG-4 rated oils and passing a series of new engine test protocols.
CG-4 was developed for oils used in 1994 and later low-emission, high-speed, four-stroke cycle diesel engines. It is also typically used for diesel engines using low sulfur diesel fuel. Newer engines that are used for on-highway or off-highway applications may call for CG-4 quality oils. One of the main advances in CG-4 verses previous quality levels is the ability of the oil to handle high levels of soot that is generated by some of these low emission engines.
CF-4 was established in 1991 to specify oil quality for severe duty, low emission, four-stroke diesel engines produced in 1991 or later. Oils meeting this category offered improved control of oil consumption and piston deposits verses previous quality levels. CF-4 has essentially replaced the CE quality rating.
CF-2 was established at the same time to specify oil quality for severe-duty, two-stroke diesel engines. CF-2 has essentially replaced CD II.
CF was established for service typical of off-road, heavy-duty diesel engines and engines operating on higher sulfur fuels. The CF quality level essentially replaced the CD level.
CE was established in 1988 to specify oils for severe duty diesel engines with turbochargers. This rating is essentially obsolete and oils meeting CF-4 are now used in applications calling for CE oils.
23. For what other applications is Mobil Delvac 1 appropriate?
Mobil Delvac 1 is a very effective lubricant in a number of diesel engine-related applications -- both in mobile equipment and in stationary equipment -- where minimum maintenance, extended drains and performance quality are critical concerns. Examples include:
Mobile refrigeration units (reefers)
Diesel engines
Engine-driven air compressors
On-site light and power generators
Close-coupled engine gear sets
24. Can Mobil Delvac 1 be used in applications other than diesel engines?
Any application that requires an engine oil formulation in the 5W-40 viscosity range is a potential candidate for Mobil Delvac 1. This can include hydraulics, moderate-speed gear drives, some power steering systems, and some auxiliary gear drives on service vehicles. You should NOT use Mobil Delvac 1 where low ash oils are required (such as in many aviation engines).
What do engine builders say about extended drains with synthetics?
Based on the outstanding performance capabilities of Mobil Delvac 1, the major builders allow extended drains using this product in well-maintained and closely monitored vehicles and fleets.
25. What drain interval should I choose?
Your driving conditions have a lot to do with the specific drain interval that will make sense for you. Refer to Mobil's Extended Drain Policy Guide, available by calling 1-800-662-4525.
26. Where can I obtain an oil analysis?
Mobil AccuTrackTM is available at truckstops nationwide. This program ensures that no matter where you are when you take your sample, the evaluation is done by the same lab. You can also share the results with your maintenance facility if you have most of your work done at one location.
There are also a number of engine manufacturer oil analysis programs, such as Caterpillar SOS and Detroit Diesel Power Track, that are widely available and provide quality testing and result reporting.
Finally, there are many independent programs available in the marketplace. We suggest that you make sure you use a quality lab that is familiar with running synthetic oil samples.
Regardless of which option you choose, remember that taking a good sample and properly labeling the sample are absolutely essential to getting accurate results.
27. What if I have a problem?
You can call us at 1-800-662-4525. We strongly encourage you to contact your engine manufacturer or distributor.
28. I have heard that there will be new engine oil requirements out soon. What are your plans for Delvac 1?
There are several changes occurring in engine oil specifications.
Most recently, the API finalized a new commercial engine oil performance standard designated CI-4. The primary drive for the new standard was the changes in engine design required to meet the 2002 EPA emission standards. The process of performance standard approval involved a joint effort by oil companies and engine manufacturers. Implementation of the CI-4 performance category occurred in December 2001, and the licensing of API CI-4 oils will commence on September 5, 2002.
Mobil Delvac 1 meets API CI-4 performance criteria.
In addition to the API standards, two major truck engine builders have published new oil performance standards for extended drain service. Mack published their EO-N Premium Plus and Cummins published their CES 20078 specifications. Mobil Delvac 1 meets both requirements.
Finally, Detroit Diesel Corporation has granted a category 2 approval for Delvac 1 in their Series 2000 and 4000 engines, providing for extended drains in a variety of applications.
29. What about Mack Premium Plus requirements?
Mobil Delvac 1 meets both the Mack EO-M and Mack EO-M Plus requirements.CONVENTIONALS?
30. How does Mobil Delvac 1 compare to competitive products?
There are many new entries in the synthetic and partial-synthetic commercial engine oil market. But they have a tough time matching the 20 years of experience we have with field performance of synthetics in diesel engines. You can be assured that Mobil Delvac 1 not only works with the latest engines, but also performs in all of the four-stroke diesel engines that have been manufactured over the past 20 years.
And, all of the evaluations we have performed on competitive products over the years have not yet identified an oil that can match the performance of Mobil Delvac 1.
31. Can I expect to see a higher wear metal reading on my oil analysis report?
Yes. Because of the extended drain intervals and low oil consumption, it would not be unusual to have higher wear metal readings. This in no way affects the lubrication protection provided by Delvac 1.
32. Is Delvac 1 compatible with conventional engine oils and engine seals?
Yes. Delvac 1 is also compatible with all other conventional and synthetic diesel engine oils meeting the current API classifications.
Delvac 1 is compatible with all engine seals and will not dry out or crack seal materials.
33. Do we need to run an oil analysis on every truck?
Refer to Mobil's Extended Drain Policy Guide (available by calling 1-800-662-4525).
34. How much extra do long-life filters cost?
A conventional filter can cost between $8 and $12. Extended-life filters can cost an additional $4. Look for the Mobil Delvac Extended Life Oil Filter at Petro Stopping Centers -- where you can also get a Mobil Delvac 1 oil change.
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