ENGINE LUBRICATION

The first motor oil was produced by Valvoline in 1866 and was a monograde mineral oil, derived from crude oil through fractional distillation of petroleum. More modern synthetic motor oil is often derived from mineral oil, but it also contains synthetic additives to help improve its lubrication, working temperature range, ability to withstand extreme temperatures and its drain interval (how long it can be used before the engine oil needs to be changed). The greater quantity of additives means it has a greater ability to provide lubrication at a wider range of temperatures without breaking down. And since it can provide better lower viscosities resulting in less friction and greater fuel economy, it’s better at protecting an engine’s internal components to help reduce wear.

According to the history books, the first synthetic oil for car engines was developed in the 1970s, even though it had been used and proven in aircraft. There was a time when engine oil was relatively cheap, but drain intervals were often as frequent as 1500 miles. With modern engines not using such universal oil and requiring specific ones, mineral oil isn’t produced in such vast quantities. Plus, the