Synthetic Or Non-Synthetic?

echoes368 · 06-24-2009, 12:07 PM

So I have been doing some reading about oils and it seems that there are many mixed opinions on the subject.
Some say that Synthetic is better... I think it's fairly safe to say that everyone can agree on the fact that synthetic oil lubricates more give you better gas mileage, runs a bit cooler, is better on cold starts, and is less prone to sludge. BUT, what people are saying is that since the molecules in the oil is smaller, it's more prone to leaking through seals and gaskets and being where it shouldn't be and causing a few problems.

In my opinion, I don't think that the synthetic stuff can cause leaks, but will just find the leaks faster than say a mineral oil would, right?

I was just wondering what people's opinions are on this matter and whether you recommend non-synthetic or synthetic. (keep in mind I do 5,000k in about a month.)

Thanks,
Mack

Max · 06-24-2009, 01:08 PM

Answers to that question are all over the board. I don't think you can go wrong either way.

Personally, I change oil @ 4-5K increments w/non-syn. This removes any contaminants (water, debris) and renews the oil additives. It's also less expensive (although syn prices have dropped in recent years) so conventional oil works for me.

230K on 5W-30 in my 99' and not a single issue requiring any internal engine work to date, and she runs like a dream.

Glowmunkey · 06-24-2009, 04:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by echoes368

In my opinion, I don't think that the synthetic stuff can cause leaks, but will just find the leaks faster than say a mineral oil would, right?

Thanks,
Mack

Yes, I agree.

Synthetic is good, I always use it on high rpm, high compression, or boosted applications. For something like an SX4, I think it's overkill unless you're going to extend oil change intervals significantly - but it sure won't hurt. Like the previous poster, I do dino oil, good oil filters and frequent changes.

Jeff L. · 06-25-2009, 01:10 AM

I'd run it in an SX-4. Hell, I run synthetic in everything I own except my RX-7.

The newer Suzuki motors are less prone to leaks (SX-4=none, GV=front crank). I don't believe synthetics cause leaks either - like you said if there is a design flaw, etc the synthetic will find it faster.

F.B. · 06-26-2009, 11:06 PM

The non-synthetic thing might be true for old, sloppy tolerance engines. Modern synthetics allow for oil change intervals of 12,000 mile+ Better for the engine and environment. I use Royal Purple and have gone to 12,000 miles+. Top shelf Amsoil, Castrol, Mobil1, etc are also exceptional oils.

echoes368 · 06-27-2009, 07:05 PM

I wouldn't recommend going much more than 7-8000k on an oil change whether it be synthetic or dino oil... This is because the oil gets contaminants in it. Even though it stays viscous for much longer, you still need to get rid of contaminants. But, if it works for you, do it! I just personally never would. =P

wolfwood · 06-27-2009, 07:43 PM

i use dino oil too.. but yes synthetic is good and will find the leak faster..

F.B. · 06-27-2009, 09:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by echoes368

I wouldn't recommend going much more than 7-8000k on an oil change whether it be synthetic or dino oil... This is because the oil gets contaminants in it. Even though it stays viscous for much longer, you still need to get rid of contaminants. But, if it works for you, do it! I just personally never would. =P

Most synthetic oil manufactures suggest these extended oil change intervals and warranty your engine if you use them. Extended OCIs are better for the environment and the regular intervals are simply a waste of money.

CARGUY · 06-28-2009, 12:24 AM

Hi Guys I Share Echoe368s Opinion About The Extended Oil Change Interval. I Have Also Done Some Research And Found That The General Findings Of Most Oil Researchers Say That To Be On The Safe Side Change The Oil At No More Than 7 To 8000km,if Synthetic.lets Be Practical Here ,the Oil Accumulates Blowby And The Longer It Stays The Higher The Level Of Contamination Synthetic Or Not.

F.B. · 06-28-2009, 09:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CARGUY

Hi Guys I Share Echoe368s Opinion About The Extended Oil Change Interval. I Have Also Done Some Research And Found That The General Findings Of Most Oil Researchers Say That To Be On The Safe Side Change The Oil At No More Than 7 To 8000km,if Synthetic.lets Be Practical Here ,the Oil Accumulates Blowby And The Longer It Stays The Higher The Level Of Contamination Synthetic Or Not.

Extended Oil Change Intervals

Extended Oil Change Interval Tests with Mobil 1

How to change motor oil and switch to synthetic oil