Heavy Equipment Forums Heavy Equipment Community

API classes

will_gurt ยท 2005-06-19 15:32

This is really going to sound stupid, but here goes. What does the API rating in oil mean? I was looking for API class SE or SF. The closest I could find is SG. What are the differences? Would putting the wrong API index oil in hurt the engine?

Replies2
  1. #1xkvator2005-06-19 18:33

    Will...the SF/SG rating was from a couple years ago...SL is what's on most of the top brand gas engine oils today. the newer ratings have improved performance/anti sludge additives. as long as you use an oil that's rated higher than what your vehicle listed, there shouldn't be a problem. you can get more info from www.api.org , etc.

  2. #2will_gurt2005-06-19 22:07

    xcavator, Thanks for the information. The information on the website is quite helpful.