49 North Lubricants

Synthetic vs Conventional Engine Oil for Alberta Winters

Web3 Programmer — Tue, 13 Oct 2026 08:30:01 +0000

Sometimes, regular motor oil just doesn’t cut it. As temperatures drop or increase, the flow of your engine oil either slows down or thins out, leading to more wear and tear. To assist with your engine’s efficiency, it’s critical to understand the different types of oil. Although conventional oil, made from refined petroleum, is common, newer vehicles that require EPA compliance often require the use of synthetic oil.

What is Conventional Oil?

Refined from crude oil, conventional oil is often used in older vehicles to lubricate components, helping to reduce engine heat. Favoured for their affordability and availability, conventional oil costs significantly less than synthetic oil. They’re also easier to find and work well with traditional or simple engines. What is Synthetic Oil? Made from a distilled crude oil base, synthetic oil is chemically enhanced to offer a more stable formulation, making it ideal for heavy equipment applications and extreme weather conditions. In low temperatures, they continue to flow smoothly, and their engine cleaning properties make for longer-lasting performance. While synthetic oil may cost more upfront, a less viscous formulation helps promote fuel efficiency, requiring less power and fluids to combat friction. With greater stabilization, synthetic oil also oxidizes less and perform well in a wider range of temperatures, making it suitable for heavy duty operations.

Synthetic Versus Conventional Oil

Temperature Performance

Since synthetic oil has a higher viscosity and is more chemically stable, it works well, even in high heat or Canadian winter sub-zero temperatures. This property is especially important for winter and year-round performance, preventing any sludge buildup or hardening. In intense industrial operations, synthetic oil continues to flow easily, allowing consistent lubrication.

Engine Protection

Engine parts are prone to constant friction, and selecting the right motor oil is key to protecting moving components. Compared to conventional oils, synthetic oils are less susceptible to breakdown. Over extended distances, their protection lasts longer, keeping engine components in optimal condition. However, it’s recommended to check your vehicle’s manual, as older models often call for conventional oils, and using synthetic oils in these cases may reduce performance or cause leakage.

Change Intervals

While conventional oil typically requires a change every 5,000 to 7,000 kilometres, synthetic oil is designed to go the distance. Thanks to its chemically stable base, synthetic oil can often last between up to 15,000 kilometres (or more, depending on manufacturer specifications). For Alberta fleet managers and heavy equipment operators, this translates to less downtime and lower long-term maintenance costs.

Why Choose Synthetic Oil for Alberta Winters

In regions like Alberta, temperatures can plummet to -40°C and having proper lubrication can make the difference between a smooth or locked engine start.

Faster Cold Starts

In the cold, conventional oil moves slower and can form sludge, forcing your battery and starter to work harder. In sub-zero temperatures, synthetic oil flows quicker. Overtime, this makes a difference in preventing long-term damage to your vehicle.

Reduced Wear and Tear

Conventional oils tend to thicken more easily, which means more friction from delayed engine startups. Synthetic lubricants, however, are formulated to flow consistently, making them ideal for smooth operation under heavy loads, intense environments, and extreme weather conditions.

Reduced Oxidation

Ongoing temperature fluctuations are common throughout the winter season. These frequent changes can speed up oil degradation and increase the amount of deposits. Oxidation is common with conventional oils, since they’re less chemically stable. Using advanced anti-wear additives, synthetic lubricants continue to retain their properties, reducing wear and constant oil changes.

Choosing the Right Oil for Your Equipment

While synthetic oil offers superior protection, the “best” oil is always the one that meets your Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) specifications.

For Newer Vehicles/High-Performance Engines: Synthetic is almost always the standard.
For High-Mileage/Older Engines: A high-mileage conventional or a synthetic blend may be used to prevent leaks in older seals.
For Heavy-Duty Industrial Equipment: Synthetic lubricants are recommended to maintain uptime in Alberta’s unpredictable climate.

Local Expertise: 49 North Lubricants

At 49 North Lubricants, we understand the unique challenges of the Canadian climate. We don’t just sell oil; we provide fluid solutions engineered to withstand the harshest environments on earth. Whether you are managing a construction fleet in Edmonton or a personal vehicle in Calgary, choosing the right lubricant is the most cost-effective insurance policy you can buy. Maximize your engine’s lifespan this winter. Explore our range of engine oil products or contact one of our specialists today to find the perfect match for your equipment.

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Why Diesel Engines Need Different Engine Oil Than Gasoline Engines blog

Web3 Programmer — Tue, 29 Sep 2026 08:30:19 +0000

Pop the hood on a diesel truck, and it looks familiar, but what happens once the engine turns over is different from what many drivers expect. The forces at work are heavier and far less forgiving. Oil moves through this system under constant stress, yet it rarely gets much attention until something goes wrong. To understand why diesel engines require a different kind of oil, you first have to look at how these engines operate and survive every mile.

Strong Oils for Different Engines

The idea of needing different oils for different engines is not just a marketing idea. It reflects how engine makers shape lubrication requirements from the earliest design stages. Diesel and gasoline engines may share pistons and crankshafts, but they live very different lives once they are up and running. A diesel engine relies on extreme compression to ignite fuel. That process creates higher pressure and heavier contamination inside the engine. Lubricating oil must survive prolonged exposure to heat and soot while protecting metal surfaces under sustained load. Gasoline engines found in the average passenger car operate with cleaner combustion and lower internal stress. Their oil is optimized for fast circulation and efficiency. Diesel oil must prioritize durability and control of contaminants that move through the exhaust system and back into the engine. Universal blends cannot meet both demands equally. When the wrong oil is used, the engine may continue running while damage develops quietly through wear deposits and weakened protection.

What Makes Diesel Engine Oil Different

Diesel engine oil is formulated for an environment that is far more severe than most gasoline engines ever experience. In a diesel engine, combustion produces greater force and leaves more residue with every cycle. That residue does not disappear on its own. It circulates through the oil, compromising its ability to protect moving parts. Diesel oil is built to stay stable under this constant punishment. One major difference is how diesel oil handles soot. Instead of allowing particles to clump together and settle where damage can occur, the oil keeps them suspended until the next oil change. Diesel oil is also designed to resist breakdown over longer periods of use. Many diesel engines are expected to run for extended hours under load without frequent maintenance. Additives play a larger role as well. Diesel oil contains higher levels of detergents and anti-wear compounds that guard against corrosion and surface damage. The result is an oil that sacrifices lightness for strength. It is not meant to maximize fuel economy. It is meant to survive conditions that would quickly overwhelm standard gasoline engine oil.
The Hidden Stress Inside Diesel Engines
Diesel engines operate under forces that are easy to underestimate from the outside. Each combustion event relies on extreme compression rather than a spark. That pressure places constant strain on pistons, bearings, and cylinder walls. Heat builds quickly and lingers longer during operation. Over time, these conditions increase friction and accelerate engine wear. Engine oils in diesel applications must withstand stress that lighter engines never encounter. The stress does not stop with metal parts. Contaminants form during combustion and move through the engine with the oil. Soot, fuel residue, and acids are byproducts of normal diesel operation. They remain present even when the engine is running properly. Engine oils must absorb this punishment while continuing to protect surfaces that never get a break. Base oils play a critical role in maintaining stability under these conditions. Many diesel engines also work for extended hours without shutdown. Long duty cycles prevent cooling and recovery. This creates an environment where weakness is exposed quickly, and protection must remain consistent at every turn.
Why Gasoline Engine Oil Isn’t Enough
Gasoline engine oil is designed for cleaner, less demanding combustion. It performs well where heat levels rise and fall quickly and where contaminants remain relatively low. Diesel engines do not offer that kind of relief. They create thicker residues and maintain higher internal pressure for longer periods of time. Oil that works in a gasoline engine can thin, break down, or lose effectiveness under those conditions. Another issue is additive strength. Gasoline oil contains fewer detergents because it does not need to manage heavy soot loads. In a diesel engine, those particles continue circulating and begin to settle on critical surfaces. Protection fades gradually rather than failing all at once. The engine may sound normal while wear quietly increases. Service intervals also matter. Diesel engines are often expected to run longer between oil changes. Gasoline oil is not built to remain stable for that length of time. It is not a matter of quality or brand. It is a matter of suitability for the job.
How Diesel Engines Push Oil to Its Limits
Diesel engines push oil to its limits by how they generate power and sustain work. Combustion relies on extreme compression that produces intense force inside the cylinder. That force transfers directly to engine components and to the oil that separates moving surfaces. Oil must maintain thickness even as pressure rises and temperatures remain elevated for long periods. Unlike lighter-duty engines, diesel systems rarely operate in short bursts. They are built to pull, haul, and run continuously. That steady demand prevents oil from cooling or settling. Contaminants stay in motion and interact constantly with bearings and cylinder walls. Oil is forced to protect while being stressed at the same time. Chemical breakdown becomes a real threat under these conditions. Oxidation accelerates, and viscosity can change if the oil is not designed for endurance. Diesel engines reveal weaknesses slowly but relentlessly. Only oil built for sustained punishment can survive that environment without sacrificing protection.
Oil Questions? Call Us Today!
Choosing the right oil matters more than most drivers realize, especially for diesel engines that operate under conditions gasoline engines never face. If you need more guidance on selecting the correct diesel oil or other lubricants tailored to your vehicle and workload, the team at 49 North Lubricants can help. You can reach them by phone at 1-800-463-0354 or send an email to info@49northlubricants.com to discuss products, services or technical questions. Their expertise can make the difference in protecting your engine and keeping your equipment running smoothly for years to come.
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5 Common Engine Oil Myths (And the Truth Behind Them)

Brittany Thackray — Tue, 14 Jul 2026 08:30:45 +0000
Engine oil has come a long way over the past few decades, but many engine oil myths haven’t. After more than 40 years in the lubricants industry, our team at 49 North Lubricants has heard just about every misconception imaginable, so let’s separate fact from fiction.
1. You Can Never Mix Synthetic and Conventional Oil
The Truth: While it’s always best to use the oil recommended for your engine, mixing synthetic and conventional engine oils isn’t going to immediately damage your engine. Most modern engine oils are designed to be compatible with one another. If you’re in a situation where you need to top up your oil and only have a different type available, it’s generally safe to do so. That said, mixing oils can reduce some of the performance benefits of a full synthetic lubricant, such as improved oxidation resistance, cold-weather performance, and extended drain intervals. Once you’re able, return to the correct oil recommended to you by the team at 49 North, or the manufacturer.
2. Thicker Oil Protects Your Engine Better
The Truth: More viscosity doesn’t automatically mean more protection. Engines are designed to operate with a specific oil viscosity. Using an oil that’s too thick can actually reduce oil flow during cold starts, increase internal resistance, and negatively impact fuel economy. Oil that’s too thin may not provide adequate protection under heavy loads or high temperatures. Using the correct viscosity helps ensure:

Faster lubrication during cold starts

Proper oil pressure

Maximum fuel efficiency

Long-term engine protection

When in doubt, use the oil recommended by your equipment manufacturer, or contact us today to learn more about the perfect product and oil viscosity for your specific needs.
3. Synthetic Oil Is Only for High-End Vehicles
The Truth: Synthetic oil benefits almost every modern engine- not just luxury cars. Now, synthetic lubricants are designed to provide:

Better wear protection

Longer service life

Improved cold-weather starting

Increased resistance to heat and oxidation

Better engine cleanliness

Whether you drive a pickup, manage a fleet of heavy-duty trucks, operate agricultural equipment, or run construction machinery, synthetic oil can help reduce downtime and improve equipment reliability. While synthetic oils typically cost more upfront, the extended service intervals and improved protection often reduce total operating costs over time.
4. Black Engine Oil Means It’s Worn Out
The Truth: Color alone doesn’t determine whether engine oil needs to be replaced. Engine oil naturally darkens as it suspends soot, carbon, and contaminants. In fact, dark oil is often an indicator that the detergent additives are doing exactly what they’re designed to do! Instead of judging oil by its color, follow:

Your manufacturer’s recommended service intervals

Your vehicle’s oil life monitoring system

Oil analysis for commercial fleets and heavy equipment

Oil can appear dark while still providing excellent protection.
5. Every Engine Needs an Oil Change Every 3,000 Miles
The Truth: The famous “3,000-mile oil change” rule is largely outdated. Modern engines and modern lubricants have dramatically increased oil life. Many passenger vehicles now recommend oil changes between 8,000 and 16,000 kilometres, while some heavy-duty equipment and fleets safely extend intervals even further through proper oil analysis and premium lubricants. Changing oil too frequently doesn’t provide extra protection—it simply increases maintenance costs and creates unnecessary waste. Always follow your equipment manufacturer’s recommendations or consult one of the lubrication specialists here at 49 North Lubricants to optimize your drain interval.
The Bottom Line
Lubricant technology continues to evolve, but many engine oil myths continue to circulate. Using the correct lubricant, following manufacturer recommendations, and understanding how modern engine oils perform can help improve reliability, reduce wear, and lower operating costs. Whether you’re maintaining a single pickup truck or an entire fleet of heavy equipment, choosing the right lubricant makes a measurable difference. At 49 North Lubricants, we’ve spent more than 40 years helping Canadian businesses and drivers get the most from their equipment. If you’re unsure which engine oil is right for your application, our team is here to help. For support in choosing the right products for your needs, and all other lubrication inquiries, please email info@49northlubricants.com or call 1-800-463-0354.
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Construction Lubricant Recommendations

Brittany Thackray — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 15:44:17 +0000

Selecting the proper lubricants for your construction equipment can play a large role in reducing upfront costs and expenses. The right lubricants can improve your fuel efficiency, as well as increase engine performance and protection. This ends up as a significant cost savings when avoiding unplanned downtime and losses in production.

OEM Requirements
Each OEM has different lubrication requirements, and you’ll want to ensure that you are using lubricants that are built to those specifications. Do you need a product that is multi-function for transmission, hydraulics, and wet brakes? Or do you need different products for each of those applications because the unit does not have a common sump?
Climate Conditions

Another important consideration is the climate your equipment is working in. Ensuring that your oil can handle the varying challenges presented by high and low temperature extremes, and still provide the protection you need is critical in preventing downtime and ensuring that the job is completed on time and under budget. Many operations continue using a straight grade hydraulic oil simply because it’s cheaper. But in today’s environments, marked by wide temperature swings and heavy workloads, these conditions demand more than what straight grade hydraulic oils were designed to handle. Upgrading to High Viscosity Index (HVI) hydraulic oil is a simple change that delivers measurable results. Those results will improve productivity, reliability, and ensure you are getting full value out of your equipment every day.

Whether its hydraulics, transmissions, differentials, or engines we have the lubricant you need for any piece of construction equipment you may have.
If you ever have any questions about what lubricant your construction equipment needs, or to learn how a lubrication specialist can help you, please call 1.800.463.0354 and speak to our Technical Specialist – Corey Foy.
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Find The Right Hydraulic Oil

Brittany Thackray — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 12:32:23 +0000
Did you Find the Right Hydraulic Oil? Hydraulic oil is often treated as a routine purchase but sticking with a straight grade hydraulic oil- classified as a product with a Viscosity Index (VI) around 105 or lower- could be costing your operation more than you think.
Rethinking the Default
Many operations continue using a straight grade hydraulic oil simply because it’s cheaper. But in today’s environments, marked by wide temperature swings and heavy workloads, these conditions demand more than what straight grade hydraulic oils were designed to handle. The result?

Inconsistent performance

Increased component wear

Reduced efficiency

More frequent oil changes

Blown hoses

Lower productivity

These issues affect your equipment, increase your downtime, and hurt your operating costs.
System Inefficiency
Only 14% of your hydraulic system is doing productive work. The rest of the energy is lost to heat, friction, and inefficiencies influenced by the quality of your hydraulic oil. That means your hydraulic fluid choice affects your maintenance and your performance.
Why Switch to a Hydraulic Oil with a High Viscosity Index?
A high viscosity index (HVI) hydraulic oil is a multigrade hydraulic oil, designed to work better across a wide range of temperatures. That means you can expect;

Consistent performance in both cold starts and high heat

Better wear protection for longer component life

Improved efficiency through smoother operation

Longer oil life, reducing change intervals and downtime

Switching to a premium hydraulic oil is going to improve equipment performance and provide a lower total cost of ownership. In fact, operations can save up to $9,000 per year through improved efficiency, reduced wear, and fewer oil changes just by switching to a multigrade hydraulic oil with a high viscosity index. If you are still running a basic straight-grade hydraulic oil in your equipment, it’s worth asking: is it meeting your needs, or just meeting your expectations? Did you find the right hydraulic oil, or just one that’s working for now? Upgrading to High Viscosity Index (HVI) hydraulic oil is a simple change that delivers measurable results. Those results will improve productivity, reliability, and ensure you are getting full value out of your equipment every day. As always, when in doubt, please call 1.800.463.0354 and speak to our Technical Specialist – Corey Foy.

Zinc Free MV XHVI High Viscosity Index Anti-Wear

Features and Benefits: -Environmentally Sensitive -Fuel Efficiency -Productivity -Long Oil Life -OEM Approval Features and Benefits: -Extreme Temperatures -Fuel Efficiency -Productivity -Long Oil Life -OEM Approval Features and Benefits: -Fuel Efficiency -Productivity -Long Oil Life -OEM Approval Features and Benefits: -Long Oil Life -OEM Approval

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Top 3 Greasing Mistakes to Avoid in the Field

Brittany Thackray — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 08:35:46 +0000
Greasing is a crucial component of service maintenance, despite it not often being given the attention it deserves. Improper greasing practices can lead to a lack of lubrication in critical areas, leading to premature wear and failure. This blog aims to pinpoint some of these poor practices so you can keep your equipment in good condition. Here are the top 3 greasing mistakes for you to avoid in the field:
1. You’re not greasing enough (or you’re greasing too much).
The purpose of grease is to provide lubrication where you can’t use oil. The thickener in grease will hold the oil in place, and under pressure the oil will separate out ensuring there is a proper film thickness between the metal parts. A lack of grease means that these metal parts will make contact, causing accelerated wear and premature failure. It is crucial that you keep up with your recommended greasing intervals to ensure that you always have lubrication. That being said, it is crucial that you do not over-grease as well. Over-greasing can cause blown seals and overheating. Make sure to follow OEM recommendations for greasing amounts and frequency.
2. You didn’t check if you’re using the right grease, for the right application.
Not all grease is the same, so it is critical that you’re choosing the right grease for your purpose. A couple key points to note are:

Thickener types:

Complex vs Soap based greases: a complex will have better high temperature performance.

Characteristics: Calcium Complex has good water resistance; Lithium Complex has good high temperature performance (barium for extremely high temperatures) and polyurea in electric motor bearing applications.

Speed and Load: Typically, high speed/low load applications use higher NLGI grades and lower viscosity base oils, whereas low speed/high loads use lower NLGI grades and higher viscosity base oils.

Extreme Pressure Additives: Some greases will use Sulphur Phosphorous EP additives, while others use molybdenum disulphide (moly) for extreme pressure protection. Moly is a solid additive which can be abrasive at high speeds, so it is important to make sure you are using it in the right application.

3. You didn’t check that the greases you’re mixing are compatible.
In the majority of cases, mixing incompatible grease will result in grease softening and running out. This will be due to the thickener type being incompatible with one another. The compatibility chart below gives an overview of most grease type’s performance with one another. When changing greases, the best practice is to purge the old grease before operating your equipment. Not only does this ensure that fresh grease is in the system, but it will also decrease compatibility concerns as most of the old grease will be removed from the system.
Contact Us:
Avoid these 3 greasing mistakes, and your equipment will be running smoother in no time! For support in choosing the right grease for your application, and all other lubrication inquiries, please email info@49northlubricants.com or call 1-800-463-0354.

Premium Plus EP 1 MP Grease XPG-15 Synthetic HPM+LT Grease HiLo Syn Blend MP Grease HDEQ Moly EP 1.5 Grease

49 NORTH® PREMIUM PLUS INDUSTRIAL MULTI-PURPOSE GREASE is a premium high temperature, multi-purpose lithium complex grease fortified with specialty additives to meet the severe requirements of a wide range of industry applications. 49 NORTH® XPG 15 SYNTHETIC HPM+LT GREASE is a High-Performance Multiuse + Low Temperature synthetic grease. This lithium calcium grease can eliminate downtime and reduce operating costs for a wide variety of operations. 49 NORTH® HI-LO SYNBLEND MULTI-PURPOSE GREASE is a multi-purpose synblend grease providing extended long-life service at continuously high operating temperatures and extreme pressure operations. It uses a lithium complex soap base thickener formulated with a blend of mineral and synthetic base oils and a complex additive package. 49 NORTH® HDEQ MOLY EP GREASE is specifically designed for the lubrication of heavy-duty off-highway, mining, and agriculture equipment. This lithium complex grease, which contains 1.5% molybdenum disulfide, can be utilized over a wide range of operating conditions and temperatures to improve productivity.

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What’s The Difference Between GL4 and GL5 Gear Oil?

Brittany Thackray — Tue, 20 May 2025 15:34:10 +0000
49 North Lubricants sells two types of Gear Oil, so what’s The Difference Between GL4 and GL5 Gear Oil? GL4 Is An Industrial Gear Oil Specification Industrial gear oil is used for gear driven industrial applications, such as conveyors, mills, presses and is meant to protect the gears as they reduce the speed of input shafts and thus increase the torque of their output. GL5 Is An Automotive Gear Oil Specification Automotive gear oil is used for axles and differentials in automotive applications to protect the hypoid gears under high load/ speed. GL5 products have more extreme pressure additives and are designed to protect these heavily loaded gear sets from wear. GL4 and GL5 gear oil are unique products that are not interchangeable. Always consult your owners manual to determine the type of lubricant you need for your specific application. You can learn more about these specifications here. As always, when in doubt, please call 1.800.463.0354 and speak to our Technical Specialist – Corey Foy.

Industrial EP Gear Lube ISO 150 Premium Fleet Synthetic Gear Lube 75W90

49 NORTH® INDUSTRIAL EP GEAR LUBRICANTS are special formula gear lubricants for heavy duty industrial gear sets. 49 NORTH® PREMIUM FLEET SYNTHETIC GEAR LUBRICANT is a fully synthetic based gear lubricant that is specially formulated for extended drain and severe service in heavy duty, extreme pressure applications.

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Leave Conventional 15W40 Engine Oil in the Cold

Brittany Thackray — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 14:05:59 +0000

Are you still using Conventional 15W40 engine oil?

While it may have been a reliable choice in the past, it’s time to consider upgrading to a more advanced lubricant: 5W40 synthetic oil.

At 49 North Lubricants, we understand the importance of choosing the right oil for your vehicle, especially during the harsh winter months. That’s why we recommend 5W40 synthetic oil to our customers.

Let’s delve into the five key benefits of switching to 5W40:

1. Improved Cold Weather Performance

Synthetic 5W40 has a lower viscosity at low temperatures compared to conventional 15W40, ensuring easier engine starts in cold weather. This is crucial for reducing wear during startup and promoting quicker oil circulation throughout the engine.

2. High-Temperature Stability

Synthetic oils generally have better thermal stability than conventional oils. Switching to 5W40 can result in improved protection against high-temperature conditions, reducing the risk of oil breakdown and maintaining optimal engine performance during hot operating conditions.

3. Extended Drain Intervals

Synthetic oils typically have a longer lifespan compared to conventional oils. Switching to 5W40 may allow for extended oil change intervals, reducing maintenance frequency and potentially lowering overall operating costs.

4. Reduced Engine Wear and Friction

Synthetic oils often contain additives that provide superior lubrication and protection against friction. The improved lubricity of 5W40 can contribute to reduced engine wear, extending the life of critical engine components such as pistons, cylinders, and camshafts.

5. Enhanced Fuel Efficiency

The lower viscosity of 5W40 can contribute to reduced internal friction within the engine, leading to improved fuel efficiency. Lower friction means less energy is lost to overcoming resistance, potentially resulting in better fuel milage (L/100 km) and overall fuel savings.

To our valued customers who already use 5W40:

We commend your decision to invest in the best for your vehicle. By choosing 5W40, you’re ensuring optimal performance, longevity, and fuel efficiency.

If you’re still using 15W40, it’s time to make the switch. Contact us today to learn more about 5W40 synthetic oil and find the perfect product for your specific needs.

Your engine deserves the best.
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Delo 600: Protect your DPF and Save Money

Brittany Thackray — Wed, 25 Sep 2024 12:19:24 +0000

Delo 600 ADF, a premium heavy-duty engine oil, is designed to optimize the performance of your diesel-powered equipment. With its advanced formulation and exceptional benefits, it stands out as a reliable choice for a wide range of applications. This blog will explore the specific benefits and applications of this product. Furthermore, it will use research to illustrate how it can protect your equipment and save you money.

Key Benefits of Delo 600
In summary, the goal of Delo 600 is to save you money by extending various service intervals and increasing efficiency. However, the specific benefits are as follows:

Extended DPF service intervals: Provides more than two times diesel particulate filter (DPF) service interval for minimal downtime and cleaning, thus managing your maintenance costs.

Improved fuel economy: Less metallic additive ash build-up in DPF means less fuel consumed for regeneration. This mean less DPF back pressure to help maintain fuel economy.

Enhanced engine protection: The advanced formulation protects critical engine components, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

Versatility: Suitable for both on- and off-highway diesel and CNG engines, meeting stringent emissions standards like API CK-4, GHG 2017, and EPA 2010

How Delo 600 ADF Works
This product aims to protect your engine and emissions system. It does this in a variety of ways listed below:

OMNIMAX technology: Delivers maximum system protection to both the engine and the emissions system, ensuring optimal performance and reduced downtime.

Reduced soot accumulation: Helps prevent excessive soot buildup, minimizing DPF regeneration frequency and emissions.

Exceptional deposit control: Protects critical engine components like pistons, rings, and valves, contributing to extended engine life. This also provides turbocharger protection due to its superb oxidation performance.

Applications
Designed for a wide range of applications, Delo 600 ADF is a versatile heavy-duty engine oil. Specifically, it is formulated for engines with Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR), Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) systems. Additionally, it is approved for use in off-highway equipment and mobile CNG engines. This makes Delo 600 ADF an excellent choice for fleets seeking a single product to service their diverse range of diesel and CNG-powered vehicles. For specific applications, visit our online store and check out the product sheet here!
Why Choose Delo 600?

Delo 600’s advanced formulation and exceptional performance make it a preferred choice for businesses seeking to optimize their equipment’s efficiency and longevity. Specifically, testing by Chevron (data presented below) has shown that users can increase their drain interval by 70%, they will see at least a 250% DPF service life extension, and up to 4.2% better fuel economy. This can translate to significant savings due to reduced annual fuel spend, DPF cleaning, and oil changes. Based on research by Chevron, an engine averaging 130,000 km per year can save up to $3050 on fuel and $125 in DPF cleaning annually. Furthermore, this product already meets the new PC-12 standard. The proposed new industry standard for sulfated ash in engine oil will be 0.9%. Delo 600 ADF has been well below this limit for years with and ultra low ash formulation of only 0.4%.

In conclusion, Delo 600 ADF can protect your equipment and save you money. If you think this product could be a fit for your business, do not hesitate to reach out to our technical specialist, Corey Foy at info@49northlubricants.com. Alternatively, feel free to browse our online store here.

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Optimizing Your Drain Interval

Brittany Thackray — Wed, 11 Sep 2024 11:10:55 +0000

Determining the optimal drain interval for your lubricants is crucial for maintaining equipment reliability, minimizing downtime, and controlling operating costs. Many people tend to use OEM specified drain intervals however, there are numerous factors that influence this decision. This includes equipment specifics, operating conditions, cost considerations, performance implications, and the insights gained from oil analysis. This blog will explore some of the factors that influence your decision when choosing the optimal drain interval, and you may find that the OEM recommended drain interval is not always the best for you. While the blog is focused on construction, the information can translate to industries such as agriculture, trucking, manufacturing, and mining.

Another very important consideration is that if your equipment is on warranty, it is imperative that you follow the OEM recommended drain interval. Failure to follow these directions could void your warranty claims. Given this, it is important that you consult our team before making the decision to change your drain interval. Furthermore, to learn more about warranty, check out our deep dive on the topic here.

Equipment-specific factors

Construction equipment operates in demanding environments, subjecting components to heavy loads, vibrations, and extreme temperatures. These factors accelerate lubricant degradation.

Equipment Type: Excavators, loaders, and haul trucks face distinct challenges. For instance, hydraulic systems in excavators are exposed to high pressures and contaminants, while diesel engines in haul trucks operate under heavy loads and high temperatures.

Equipment Age: As equipment ages, wear and tear increase, introducing metal particles and contaminants into the lubricant. Components such as seals and gaskets deteriorate, allowing contaminants to enter the oil.

Component Complexity: Equipment with complex hydraulic systems or intricate engine designs may require more frequent oil changes due to the potential for faster contaminant buildup and lubricant breakdown.

Cost considerations

Balancing the costs associated with lubricants, filters, labor, and potential downtime is crucial for effective drain interval management.

Lubricant and Filter Costs: While high-quality lubricants and filters often have a higher upfront cost, they can extend drain intervals, leading to long-term savings. For example, synthetic lubricants offer superior resistance to oxidation and breakdown, potentially doubling drain intervals.

Labor Costs: Frequent oil changes increase labor expenses, including technician time and equipment downtime. This can disrupt operations and reduce productivity.

Downtime Costs: Unexpected equipment failures due to lubricant-related issues can result in significant production losses and repair costs. Adhering to optimal drain intervals helps prevent costly downtime and maintain operational efficiency.

Performance and reliability

Lubricant condition directly impacts equipment performance and reliability.

Wear and Tear: Lubricants form a protective film on metal surfaces, minimizing friction and wear. Insufficient lubrication accelerates component wear, leading to premature component failure and increased maintenance costs.

Equipment Life: Proper lubrication extends equipment life by preventing premature component failure. Adhering to recommended drain intervals contributes to a longer service life for construction equipment.

Oil analysis

Oil analysis provides invaluable insights into lubricant condition, enabling data-driven decisions regarding drain intervals. By examining wear metals, additive depletion, contaminants, viscosity changes, and other parameters, oil analysis reveals the lubricant’s health and remaining useful life.

Predictive Maintenance: By identifying potential issues early, such as excessive wear or contaminant levels, oil analysis allows for proactive maintenance planning. For instance, if oil analysis is trending with some tin wear in your results, and starts to include copper or nickel wear, maintenance crews can start planning scheduled repairs, instead of having a bearing fail in the field.

Extended Drain Intervals: In some cases, oil analysis may reveal that the lubricant is still in good condition beyond the recommended drain interval. By extending drain intervals based on data-driven insights, construction companies can optimize maintenance schedules and reduce costs.

Troubleshooting Equipment Issues: Oil analysis can help identify the root cause of equipment problems. For example, elevated levels of certain wear metals might indicate specific component wear, guiding maintenance efforts.

How can 49 North help?
49 North has a team of professionals that are able to order and interpret oil analysis samples for your company. Furthermore, our team has a deep knowledge about the factors that influence your drain interval and may be able to improve your efficiency and save you money.
By carefully considering these factors and implementing a proactive maintenance strategy that includes regular oil analysis, construction companies can optimize lubricant management, extend equipment life, and reduce operational costs. Finally, to see what kind of services our technical specialist can offer, check out this blog here.

For more information, do not hesitate to reach out to our technical specialist, Corey Foy at info@49northlubricants.com. Alternatively, feel free to browse our online store here.

The post Optimizing Your Drain Interval appeared first on 49 North Lubricants.


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