Oil Bonding

["Al Powell" <APOWELL@agcom.tamu.edu>]

> From: jmcelroy@lr.net (Lynn M. McElroy)
> 
>         If my memory serves me right, I was once told that once you chose a
> motor oil you should use said motor oil exclusively from then on, because
> the oil molecules bond to the engine's moving parts, and any mixing or
> continually changing from brand to brand of motor oil may have adverse
> effects on this bonding process.
>         Maybe it doesn't matter at all. Can anyone enlighten me on this
> matter? THANKS.

Lynn - to the best of my knowledge, this is one of many automtive 
myths.  The concern related to changing oils is that all 
petroleum-based oils (not so much synthetics) eventually leave small 
traces of residue, and those residues are brand-specific.  Changing 
brands has the potential to break those deposits loose.  Now, in a 
WELL maintained engine, the concern is negligible with modern oils, 
regardless of whether they are petroleum or synthetic.  In a sludge-
filled engine, it's a very real concern.

BONDING of oil molecules is not an issue; it just doesn't happen.  As 
a matter of fact, this is the biggest outright LIE associated with 
the teflon additives.  Manufacturers claim they bond to engines 
internally, which is an outright flamin' lie!  Temperatures do NOT 
get high enough inside an engine to bond teflon to any surfaces, 
period.  As a result, those little teflon particles are floating 
around in the oil pan, and have been proven by US Military tests to 
have a significant potential for clumping in cold weather and 
blocking the oil pimp pickup, causing engine failure!  Fact.  


+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Al Powell, Ph.D.                 Voice:  409/845-2807
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