Managing a fleet of trucks might be part of your business. If so, then commercial fueling is likely your largest operating expense. Still, there are other considerations that must be made. One of which is what type of lubrication you are utilizing. One of the considerations you may be making is whether you should switch to a lower viscosity oil. Consider this: low viscosity oils decrease engine energy loss, reduces drag on internal components, increases overall fuel efficiency, and extends drain intervals.
To get the most out of your commercial fueling needs, you want your vehicles to be in good working condition. There has been a shift in thinking on emissions reductions, which has caused a re-engineering of sorts within the OEM and lubricant manufacturing industry. NOx emissions have dropped to near non-existent levels.
Keeping oil on your mind.
Certainly, much of the credit for increased fuel economy can be given to new cutting-edge accessories – such as Vortex tails and side skirts – as well as truck driver behavior and more efficient engines. Yet the lubricant sector cannot be forgotten as a large driver of efficiency.
There is a role for oil to play in helping reduce fuel consumption and increase overall sustainability targets. Lubricants have moved in a significant direction towards ensuring even greater performance and less fuel consumption. Still, this doesn’t mean a vehicle’s engine and performance capabilities should be left out of the equation. The last thing you want is to damage your equipment.
Counting on the oil’s manufacturers.
So, what is one to do if they want to make sure they are switching properly? First, consult with your vehicle’s OEM. There is a special imperative if your engine is under warranty. The oil companies themselves can also be valuable sources of information.
Oil OEMs spend many years and many more millions of dollars on research and development. They procure engines of all types and test them on various models over various periods of time. Very often there will be charts available that will make conversions much easier. When you are making the decision to switch to a lower viscosity oil, you have to go to the source for some of the best information.
Ensuring fleet-wide success.
Running a fleet of vehicles is no small task. Few, if any, large fleets use only one make and model of commercial motor vehicle for every occasion. Just as some vehicles have different commercial fueling needs, they also have unique lubricant needs.
When making a switch from a high viscosity oil, it is critical that a plan is put in place to address each vehicle’s specific needs. Doing something as vital as making a lubricant switch should never happen in a vacuum. Put a plan in place and make sure your fleet technicians are properly trained on how to implement it across the fleet.
Making the right decisions with your commercial fueling and lubricant needs.
In the case of an improper switch, you may find problems arising with your fuel warning indicator. At lower RPMs, a vehicle could indicate a low-pressure warning. In cases like these, the truck driver could find themselves in an engine power down situation.
Just as you consult with us for all your commercial fuel needs in Bakersfield, Fresno, San Luis Obispo, Santa Clarita and Ventura areas, you would want to consult with an engine or oil OEM to make sure a switch is both feasible and not dangerous.
Remember: making viscosity switches is no small matter. Here at Greg’s Petroleum Service, we can help you figure out the switch. We have been in the business for a long time, and as a customer of ours, you can guarantee the help you need to keep the hard decisions simple.