It seems that summers in Europe are getting warmer and warmer by the year. And just like we feel this smoldering heat, our cars also struggle under the relentless sun. This is the reason we gathered here Valvoline’s top tips on how to prepare your car for hot temperatures and ensure the health of your ride throughout the summer. Read more in our latest article.
When you are a vehicle owner, sometimes, you might have one coolant in your car and one in your garage. If you are not in the mood to go to a shop, it is possible to start wondering what would happen if you just mixed different coolants. We have all been in this situation, so let us discuss the consequences of mixing coolants and whether we should do it or not.
Since grease as a lubricant has a huge impact on the performance, reliability, and durability of machines, it is necessary to choose it wisely and strategically. With grease compatibility charts on your side, it is definitely easier to make the right decision when mixing greases in your machines and vehicles. Deep dive into the topic by reading our latest blog posts.
To ensure your vessel is in top condition with all systems running perfectly, it is necessary to provide your engine with the right marine engine oil. Your choice of lubricant can not only affect the efficiency and lifespan of the engine but also play a role in your safety. This short but informative guide will help you select the right marine engine oils to exactly fit your vessel’s requirements.
In many industries, being energy-efficient is the ultimate goal. And one way to achieve this goal is through sustainable lubrication. With quality products and practices, it is possible to save energy, reduce waste and boost the technical performance of every machine. Find out more.
Most manufacturers have their own unique packaging for lubricants, thus choosing the right motorcycle lubricants is not easy, especially with all those confusing numbers and parameters on the bottles. Here is a concise guide on understanding motorcycle oil ratings and specs so you can always choose the best one for your ride.
Engine oil is an essential component of any motorcycle engine. However, various oil problems can occur due to different circumstances, and all the most common ones will be examined in this brief guide. Read it to discover the most common motorcycle oil problems riders face and learn how to eliminate them.
Vehicles of all kinds, no matter if passenger or heavy-duty, run thanks to a combination of many different fluids, including the transmission fluid. Not many people are familiar with transmission oils, and especially all the additives and their roles in the vehicle system. So, let us learn more about transmission oil additives and all of their benefits.
Having an in-depth understanding of lubrication, characteristics of products, particular applications and lubricant maintenance can be highly beneficial to any powerplant. In this text, we will discuss lubrication basics, as well as examine the different roles of industrial lubricants in different power generation facilities. Let's learn more.
Choosing only food-grade lubricants is of the utmost priority in any operation that uses machines to produce food and drinks. Thus, we created a general guide to industrial food-processing equipment lubricants and all the important ways they ensure the safety of consumers and the quality of products. Learn more.
Industrial maintenance is a critical process across various industries. Proper maintenance ensures that the equipment used is working at its best. This involves regular inspections, repairs, and maintenance tasks to keep the equipment functioning properly. It also prolongs the equipment's lifespan, reduces the need for costly replacements, and increases operational safety. Here is what you should know about it.
Through regular fleet maintenance, organizations can keep their vehicles in top shape. Proper maintenance can boost fleet operations, reduce costs, and steer off unexpected vehicle malfunctions. Let’s look at all the key steps that should be included when creating a proper fleet maintenance strategy for your business.
The braking system is made up of several components that work together to stop the vehicle when the brake pedal is pressed. However, many drivers are unaware of the importance of brake oil in preserving the system's optimal performance. Let’s learn more about the different types of braking systems, as well as the various brake oil types.
According to their chemical impact on the metal surface, cutting oils can be active or inactive. Active cutting oils contain additives that chemically react with the metal surfaces. Inactive cutting oils, on the other hand, do not contain such additives and do not chemically react with the metal surface, and are perfect for processing ferrous, nonferrous, and white metals. Explore more.
Electroerosion is a metal processing technique where machines and tools are exposed to highly demanding working environments. To ensure their utmost performance, it is critical to invest in proper machinery maintenance and the first step is choosing the right metal processing lubricant. Here is everything you should know about electroerosion and the oils this process requires.
Engine flush keeps the engine running smoothly by eliminating harmful deposits from it. This prolongs the life of the engine and minimizes the risk of expensive repairs down the road. Additionally, a clean engine runs more efficiently, which leads to better fuel economy and a notable reduction in emissions. So, what is engine flush? What are its benefits? How is it performed? This brief guide answers these questions for you.
Proper lubrication is essential for enhancing modern tractors' performance. It also helps to increase profits, reduce downtime, and minimize maintenance and repair costs. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the essential concepts related to tractor lubrication, including the multiple roles of tractors across various industries, the types of tractor engines, and the lubricants they require. Let’s get started!
Plastic deformation is one of the most prominent and widespread metal processing techniques. During this process, metal undergoes permanent deformation, when exposed to high stress and retains its new shape even when the stress is eliminated. So, what is plastic deformation? How does it work? What lubricants does it require? Let’s learn from the article.
A lubricant is considered to be the lifeblood of your machinery. For this reason, it’s absolutely crucial to implement good industrial lubrication practices, so that your equipment stays in top-notch condition. And that’s exactly what a good lubrication program is designed to enable. So, let’s find out what this program is, what key components it should include, and what are its benefits.
One of the most important steps for metalworking companies on a way to improve their efficiency and achieve the ecological standards set by the EU, is the selection of metalworking fluids. In this article, you will learn everything you wanted to know about metal processing procedures and machines, as well as how lubricant selection impacts them. So, let’s start.
The causes of motor oil contamination are multiple. Some of them include leaks from oil storage tanks or pipelines. Improper disposal of oil-based products is also a common cause of engine oil contamination. Each of these issues may cause unexpected equipment performance problems and breakdowns. In this brief guide, we discuss the most common types of motor oil contamination and how they can be solved.
The worst thing that can happen to a racecar driver is to experience vehicle failure or malfunction. Such a predicament can end up affecting the seat time and leaving the driver weeks behind. And we can all agree that nobody likes to lose, especially if racing for profits. So, let’s see how you can ensure that your racecar stays in top-notch condition throughout the season.
Sub-zero temperatures during winter can be tough on your heavy-duty vehicles and machines. Equipment breakdowns may halt your operations and significantly increase repair costs. That is why thorough preventive maintenance is essential to keeping your machinery in peak operating condition. And, it starts with taking care of the basics. Here are a few steps you should take.
Lubricants consist of base oil (mineral, semi-synthetic, and synthetic) and advanced additive packages. Additives strengthen the characteristics of the base stock, increasing its overall performance, reliability, and quality. What are the roles of additives in lubricants? What kinds of additives are there? Learn everything you wanted to know about lubricant additives in this ultimate guide.
Cold weather can have a detrimental effect on your vehicle. It causes a myriad of engine issues and battery problems, and negatively impacts the overall vehicle reliability. However, there’s no reason you should dread winter once your car is fully prepared to combat low temperatures. We created a list of essential automotive fluids you should use during the winter months to ensure that your car is winter-ready and in top-notch operating condition.
Hydraulic equipment maintenance can be fraught with pitfalls. An average hydraulic user is often unaware of certain errors and omissions that can endanger the success of hydraulic operations. This article will provide you with greater insight into hydraulic equipment usage and lubrication and help avoid common mistakes when maintaining hydraulic equipment. Let's dive in!
Carefully selected, quality power plant lubricants are vital for the success of power plant operations. They help protect all parts of your machinery by keeping them properly lubricated and free from rust, corrosion, oxidation, sludge, varnish, dirt, and other contaminants. Well-maintained machinery achieves better performance results, requires no downtime, and keeps the operation going at all times. Let’s see how.
Rust is the most common form of corrosion and it represents a major threat to your fleet and equipment. That is why proper rust prevention is considered a key aspect of vehicle and machine maintenance. And, it starts with the selection of the right rust-preventive coatings. In this article, we explain the most common types of rust-preventive coatings and the characteristics you should consider when choosing them.
Due to continuous exposure to unfavorable work settings, industrial machine components have a significantly shorter lifecycle and are more prone to failure. So, how can you mitigate and reduce equipment failure? In this detailed guide, we discuss the most common causes of machine degradation and provide the best practices you should follow to enhance the durability of your equipment. Let’s start!
In previous articles, we discussed the importance of lubricant inventory management and optimization. Another essential factor is the consolidation of the lubricants used in machine maintenance. It plays a fundamental role in various industrial settings and contributes to the facilitation of storage handling, cost reduction, and inventory optimization. So, what is lubricant consolidation? Why is it important? Let’s find out!
The condition of oils, greases, or coolants, determines the overall performance of the fleet and machinery, so their optimization should be any company’s top priority. The fluid analysis program provides a full diagnostics report of lubricants and equipment. What is fluid analysis, who is it for, and how does it work? We have created this comprehensive guide to help you learn everything you ever wanted to know about fluid tests.
Many car owners decide to idle their vehicles for some time for multiple reasons. However, when your car is parked for months, it may experience a multitude of safety and performance problems. In this article, we cover the most common issues that may happen to your car when you do not drive it regularly and provide tips on how to restart it successfully.
Realizing that the newly purchased equipment or machinery is not working as it should is the worst-case scenario any buyer could possibly think of. To ensure this does not happen, most modern industries apply a certain product assessment technique called vibration acceptance testing. Let's learn more about it in our article.
Today’s lubrication industry still very much relies on the products, methods, and practices that were used during the early years, but, at the same time, it is one of the fastest-changing industries. Industrial grease and lubrication advances and innovations have brought numerous benefits to both end-users and suppliers. Without further ado, let’s explore the most promising trends sure to transform the world of industrial lubricants.
If you are wondering what the best lubrication for metal parts is, the answer is not as straightforward as you might think. The lubricant choice largely depends on your individual metalworking needs. To help avoid any confusion, we have prepared this comprehensive guide to metalworking fluids - their functions, benefits, types, and usage. Let’s dive in!
Each engine is created differently and requires the right oil formula to operate as expected. That includes a specific oil viscosity, temperature stability, and compatibility with its sealing materials. One of the major factors you should consider when choosing the right lubricant for your engine is OEM specifications and approvals. What does that mean? Let’s find out!
The construction sector plays a fundamental role in the European economy. To stay ahead of competitors in this hyper-competitive sector, construction and earthworks companies are dedicated to innovating their operations and increasing heavy-duty machinery efficiency. And, lubricant selection and maintenance play a fundamental role in the process. Why is construction lubrication important? How to choose the right products? Let’s find out!
Using poor-quality or inadequate hydraulic fluids may shorten the service life of your heavy-duty industrial machinery. It results in frequent machine failures, causes costly repairs, and increases downtime. That is why it is critical to choose high-quality lubricants that are in line with your hydraulic system’s needs. To make this choice easier, in this article we discuss the major characteristics of high-quality hydraulic oils. Spare a few minutes to read it.
A key to any mine’s profitability lies in high-performance and well-maintained heavy mining machines. To keep all parts of mining equipment and machines running smoothly, companies need to invest in advanced mining lubricants. What are the types of mining solutions and how to choose them? What are their roles and advantages? At Valvoline, we decided to compile the most common questions asked by our clients in the mining sector and answer them in our ultimate guide to proper mining lubrication.
As each engine oil type has its own set of properties, it is important to select the one that fits your vehicle’s unique needs. However, what if you make a mistake and pour the wrong type of oil into the engine? Let’s take a look at factors to consider when selecting the right lubricant, the consequences of using the inappropriate one, as well as the steps you should take to fix the problem.
Even though they are typically more expensive than traditional mineral-based oils, synthetic lubricants provide multiple benefits thanks to their long service life and efficiency. In this guide to synthetic industrial lubricants, you will learn what they are, how they work, and what their industrial uses are. Most importantly, you will understand the benefits of synthetic oils, greases, and other industrial lubricating solutions.
Just like mechanical components, industrial lubricants should be considered an essential part of your industrial vehicles, machinery, and equipment. Low-quality or damaged oils may harm the performance of your vehicles and cause costly repairs. Proper storage is one of the most effective ways to increase the performance and shelf life of your lubricants. Here is what you should know about it.
Diesel and gasoline engines are similar in the broad sense. Both represent internal combustion engines (ICEs), created specifically to convert the chemical energy in fuel into mechanical energy via a series of explosions (combustions). The key difference between them is how these combustions occur. In this comprehensive guide, you will find everything you wanted to know about diesel and gasoline engines.
There are too many car dashboard warning lights. Even the savviest driver finds it difficult to remember and decipher them all. Ignoring them is the easiest way, but it may only result in more expensive car repairs and, worse yet, compromise your and other people’s safety. In this guide, we cover the most essential car dashboard warning lights everyone should know. So, let’s get started!
From tractors to hay balers, virtually every piece of equipment in modern agriculture requires proper lubrication. We already discussed the importance of choosing the right lubricants for farming machinery. That includes the selection of the right greases, oils, and transmission fluids for your agricultural vehicles. But, how to properly maintain the tractor cooling system and enhance its performance during a peak season? We have answered this question for you.
Every driver wants their vehicle to last as long as possible. However, they are often not sure where to start. Keeping the car on the road longer is all about taking good care of it. Only that way can you increase its performance, reliability, and efficiency. To help you, we made a brief list of easy steps you should take to extend the lifespan of your car, maintain its performance, and keep it safe as the kilometers keep adding up.
Each vehicle manufacturer recommends using precisely determined oil formulas to provide the engine with optimal lubrication and protection. That is exactly why European lubricant manufacturers need to abide by the engine oil standards set by ACEA (the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association). In this article, we explain what ACEA specifications are and why it is essential to choose an ACEA-approved engine oil.
To address the pollution caused by lubricants, many companies (including Valvoline) now focus on the production of environmentally-friendly products. What are environmentally-acceptable products? What are their advantages and disadvantages? To answer these questions for you, we have created the following article.
The number of hybrid cars in Europe is continuously increasing. Hybrid vehicles are also a more cost-effective option given they provide greater fuel efficiency. However, the evolution of intelligent hybrid vehicles poses a new set of challenges for drivers and lubricant manufacturers. Here is how Valvoline’s intelligent hybrid fluids address the problem.
Transmission, either manual or automatic, is susceptible to wear and tear. Since transmission repairs and replacements can be complex and expensive, it is vital to detect any unusual activities or performance issues early. What are the most common causes of transmission damage, and how to recognize them? Can you prevent transmission breakdown? Find the answers to these questions in our brief guide!
Poor lubricant selection leads to a wide range of engine performance issues. One of them is low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI). LSPI occurs in modern turbocharged gasoline direct injection technology. This phenomenon may result in fatal engine damage when you least expect it. What is low-speed pre-ignition? What are its causes? How can you prevent it? Here is everything you should know!
What are the most essential fluids that keep your vehicle on the road? Engine oil, coolants, automatic transmission oils, brake fluid, etc. However, the list does not stop there. Your car also needs a set of service fluids, specifically designed to clean, lubricate, and protect different parts of your vehicle. What are service fluids, and how do they benefit you? Let’s find out!
Vehicle manufacturers need to comply with many environmental regulations. Rolled out in 2015, Euro 6 is a set of regulations that aims to minimize nitrogen-oxide emissions. The regulation applies to all Euro 6-compliant diesel vehicles registered after 2015. These cars need to use a special fluid that reduces nitrogen oxide levels. Its name is AdBlue®. What is it and why is it important to your diesel vehicle? Let’s discover!
Engine manufacturers are striving to reduce their environmental impact by innovating fuel formulas and improving after-treatment technology. That is exactly where a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) enters the scene, as one of the most critical after-treatment devices in your vehicle. What is DPF and why is it that important? Let’s find out!
Turbine engines use a mixture of compressed air and fuel to start. They reach higher temperatures and, as such, require high-performing lubricants specifically designed to support their operation. These lubricants are called turbine engine oils (TEOs) and are essential for the performance and health of the turbine system. What are turbine engine lubricants and how do they work? Find out in our ultimate guide to turbine lubrication!
Vehicles speak their own language. They use sounds like squeaking, screeching, roaring, knocking, and squealing to warn us there is something wrong with them. Detecting and diagnosing the background noise your car is making is crucial. Not sure how to comprehend your vehicle’s language? This is the reason we compiled a brief guide to car noises and what they mean.
The air-fuel ratio needs to be optimal to ensure uninterrupted combustion and enhanced engine performance. In the past, a carburetor was the only device that controlled the combination of air and fuel, but the invention of Engine Control Units (ECUs), significantly changed the game. ECUs use Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensors to measure airflow. Let’s find out more about MAF sensors and their importance!
Supersonic speed, impressive agility, and a high-performance engine are synonymous with racing vehicles. Unsurprisingly, such automotive beasts are powered by super-strong engines that are unlike their passenger car counterparts. Racing car motors produce extreme heat and pressure, as well as use more fuel due to the differences in power. Given that, it is not surprising that typical passenger car engine oils do not work for them.
Up until the mid-1990s, there was a uniform coolant formula used in all vehicles - the famous green or blue fluid. Since then, coolant technology has evolved at an astonishing rate, striving to meet the needs of high-performance engines, provide a longer service life, and ensure lower emissions. In this comprehensive guide, we discuss the coolant formulas used in modern car engines. Let’s get started!
Engine oil leaks are one of the most common causes of engine damage. They cause rapid deterioration of the engine and result in expensive repairs. Worse yet, engine oil leaks pose a safety threat. They may lead to the loss of control of the vehicle while driving. Precisely because of that, it is essential to determine the main engine oil leak causes and take action to fix them. Let’s get started.
Engine oil is your motorcycle’s most essential fluid - one it could not run without. However, choosing the right motorcycle engine oil can be challenging, as it depends on multiple factors, including your riding style and the engine’s operating conditions. Based on your frequently asked questions, we have compiled this ultimate guide to help you understand the types of motorcycle engine oil and choose the right one for your bike.
Are you looking for a cleaning or lubricating product for a specific part of your vehicle, tool, or machinery? Then, you need a specialty fluid. Specialty fluids are specifically engineered to lubricate a vehicle or a piece of equipment, maximize its performance, and extend its operating life. Based on their formulas and uses, there are different types of specialty fluids. Read more in our blog post.
Are you a car enthusiast or an owner of a small workshop? In either case, owning an arsenal of technical workshop sprays is as important as having your basic automotive tools. Technical sprays play multiple roles in a workshop, including cleaning, lubrication, protection, assembly, and car care. Without them, a 15-minute fix may turn into a daylong nightmare. Here are a few essential types of sprays you may need in your workshop.
On the Valvoline blog, we have already discussed marine coolant technologies and marine oil selection. However, to choose the right lubricant formula for your boat, you first need to know the types of marine lubrication systems - the main lubricating oil system, the cylinder oil system, and the turbocharger lubricating oil system. We have compiled this ultimate guide to help you understand how these systems work. Let's deep dive into the topic!
Traditional engine lubricants use performance-boosting additives, such as phosphorus and sulfur for their anti-wear and antioxidant features. However, phosphorus and sulfur may damage the depolluting after-treatment system. Thus, oil manufacturers designed a series of oils that have low levels of sulfur and phosphorus. In the automotive lubricants industry, we call them low-emission or low-SAPS oils.
Motor oil is the most essential fluid in your vehicle. It lubricates engine parts, minimizes friction, and reduces wear and tear. It also has advanced cooling and detergent properties. That is why choosing a quality lubricant for your engine is essential. There are many factors you should consider when choosing engine oil for your vehicle. Not sure where to start? We have compiled a brief list of factors you should consider when selecting engine oil.
With so many types of grease available, choosing the right product is not easy. You need to consider numerous factors, including its base oil, thickener type, additives, and NLGI grade. Most importantly, it is crucial to pay attention to grease consistency, especially in systems that require the combination of multiple grease formulas. Read more in our ultimate guide to the types of grease and its uses.
Whether you are looking for motor oils for your passenger car, motorcycle, boat, or heavy-duty fleet, choosing the right oil viscosity is essential for engine life and performance. If you are still not sure what terms like ‘oil viscosity,’ ‘viscosity grades,’ or ‘viscosity index’ mean, do not worry. We have prepared this brief guide to the viscosity of oil to help you!
Lubricants improve performance of your vehicle, extend its lifespan, and reduce costly repairs. Some of the lubricants essential to car performance are engine oils, coolants, brake fluids, transmission fluids, power steering fluids, and windshield washer fluids. To learn more about the technology, applications, and benefits of your vehicle’s essential fluids, read this guide.
Cold winter days put stress on passenger cars. That is why you should not neglect the importance of winter car maintenance. Only by having your car thoroughly serviced and prepared for winter driving conditions can you ensure it is up for the challenge. Regular car maintenance in the winter increases driving safety and extends the life of your vehicle. Read on to learn how to prepare your car for tricky winter rides.
There are two types of small engines – 2-stroke and 4-stroke. While containing similar components, these engines go through different processes and have contrasting uses. Understanding how they work is essential to choosing the right engine oil, as both have certain advantages and disadvantages. What are 2-stroke and 4-stroke engines? What is the difference between 2-stroke and 4-stroke engine oil? Let’s find out!
Industrial vehicles and machines operate in harsh conditions, causing their components to be more prone to degradation and have a shorter lifespan. Luckily, advanced industrial oils are capable to protect machines against damage and ensure spotless performance even in the most challenging working environments. This guide teaches you to choose the right type of industrial oil for your business.
In all vehicles with internal combustion engines, including motorcycles, the cooling system reduces the risk of overheating. By understanding how the motorcycle coolant system works, you can boost the performance of your engine and prevent expensive fixes. To help you, we have created the ultimate guide to motorcycle cooling systems and products. Learn more about it by reading our detailed guide.
The power transmission process requires continuous friction between the moving metal parts of the transmission system. That causes the deterioration of its components and results in expensive repairs. That is why using transmission oil is crucial. Choosing the transmission fluid depends on various factors, including the car manufacturer and the transmission type. Here is what you need to know about it.
By measuring oil consumption, you can tell the engine's health. Excessive oil burning is often the consequence of severe engine performance issues. We cannot easily specify the point at which motor oil consumption becomes excessive. That depends on numerous factors, including the engine manufacturer. Let's find out more about the causes and symptoms of excessive oil consumption in this article.
Hydraulic systems, used in various industries (manufacturing, construction, robotics, agriculture, mining, aircraft, etc.) play a fundamental role in working settings that require a high-power density or where load demands change fast. In hydraulic systems, the pressurized fluid creates energy. These fluids are called hydraulic oils or hydraulic fluids and are essential for their spotless performance. So, what are hydraulic oils, and how to choose the right one? Let’s learn!
As a responsible car owner, you probably already know how important it is to maintain your car regularly, check its vitals, and visit your mechanic at least once a year. This is true for all vehicles, regardless of their age and price range, but it’s even more important if you’re driving a car with a diesel engine. If you want your car to work perfectly, you need to make sure you’re using proper engine coolant – but how to do that, and why is this so important? Read more.
Investing in high-quality oil makes your car run in the best and most effective way possible. How can you know which engine oil is the best and which you need to avoid? Well, this dilemma has a lot to do with oil viscosity and how it reacts in different scenarios you might put your car into. In case you’re trying to learn a bit more about viscosity and what makes it so crucial for the shape of your car, here is what you need to know.
To know which kind of oil your car needs, you need to understand that there are different types and grades of oil, all of them having unique properties. Being able to interpret the label on the packaging is crucial to buying the right product. To help you understand this label ‘code’ and get the oil your engine needs, we’ve prepared the following practical guide related to engine oil grades. Read more.
Here at Valvoline, we have already discussed engine coolants in depth. We wrote about the importance and application of these specialty fluids. If you are still not sure which types of coolants there are and how to pick the right one, do not fret. Valvoline has got your back. We compiled the ultimate guide to choosing the right coolant for your car.
Those working in industries requiring the use of machinery are undoubtedly familiar with the concept of tribology and lubrication. It is probably one of the most important factors impacting the normal functioning of expensive machines and equipment. On the other hand, those who are not quite sure what it involves and why it is vital might want to get familiar with the concept to appreciate its significance. Let's dive in!
Engine rust is often hard to detect and takes time to develop. Corrosion degrades the useful properties of materials, harming the overall engine performance. Fortunately, with the right car maintenance tactics and products, you can battle corrosion. To help you, we put together this brief guide to rust prevention. Let's deep dive into the topic!
Brakes are a car part that controls your car’s ability to slow down and stop. As such, they are essential for your own safety and the safety of every other traffic participant. Although the majority of traffic accidents happen due to human error, there are some that will occur due to a malfunction within the vehicle itself. Brake issues are at the very top of the list. Here are some tips to help you stay safe on the road.
The public is getting increasingly familiar with the concept of electric and hybrid vehicles. The average consumer of today doesn’t perhaps know exactly how the hybrid engine works (explained in this article), but they are surely aware that it is much better for the environment than legacy vehicles that use internal combustion engines only. Let's discover why!
Freight and transportation industries are incredibly competitive, and getting every mile out of an oil change is incredibly important. However, the unending chase for efficiency has led many fleet managers to overextend their drain intervals. This can be very dangerous because overestimating the fleet’s drain interval can cause widespread engine failure. That can further cascade into massive repair expenses that would wipe out any savings that came from cutting costs. Read more.
The level of the car transmission fluid needs to be inspected regularly. Depending on the model you own, automatic transmission fluid should be changed every 30,000 to 100,000 miles, but there are cases when this needs to be done more often. If you’re willing to learn to do it and save some money along the way, here is how you can check and replace transmission fluid, in case you are sure you can do it safely.
Not all oil types for power generators are the same. Their choice depends on a wide range of factors, including the type of your generator, your operating conditions, and the type of fuel you use. So, what are the common types of power generators? What kind of oil does a generator use? Learn more about it in our latest article!
Starting to use high-mileage oil for your high-mileage vehicle is among the critical aspects to keep your car’s engine healthy for longer periods of time. These oils are different than regular oils as they contain seal enhancers and special additives capable of minimizing internal and external engine oil leaks. Many experts recommend using high-mileage oils after 75,000+ miles, but there are also other factors to consider.
Not setting maintenance schedules is one of the most common mistakes fleet managers make. They help you stay current on your routine fleet service tasks, extend the usable vehicle life, minimize unexpected breakdowns, and reduce your long-term costs. Most importantly, it ensures the safety of your vehicle operators on the road. Once you minimize fleet maintenance, you will increase the overall fleet performance and cut costs. To do so, here are several fleet maintenance mistakes to avoid.
Using marine coolant is among the basic aspects of proper engine maintenance. Boat engines that are properly and regularly maintained in terms of the use of marine coolant, last longer due to the mitigation of overheating scenarios. Aside from the entire engine being kept at optimal working temperatures, regular use of the right boat coolant also optimizes the workflow of the cooling systems. Get to know more!
In the mining industry equipment is put through some of the harshest and most hazardous environments. This places incredible demands on heavy-duty equipment. The overall efficiency of any mining operation depends on the uninterrupted functioning and longevity of mining machines. Since this equipment is quite expensive, the longer you manage to extend its operating life, the further you will put off a new purchase or repair. Learn how!
Heavy equipment greases are specifically formulated to endure harsh working conditions, environments, and sudden changes in temperature or load. Their selection is wide, and making the right choice can seem daunting, but it will improve equipment longevity and reduce downtime. Here we’ll discuss the challenges of heavy-duty equipment maintenance and the most important aspects of picking the best grease for any operation.
The marine engine is the very heart and soul of your boat. And every boat owner should make sure their boat’s marine engine is properly handled and nourished. The critical aspect of the nourishment part is choosing the right oil for the marine engine. Engines that are not supplied with the right marine oil, in terms of both quality and type, are highly likely to underperform, have shorter lifespans, and even break down. Read more in our blog.
When it comes to keeping your motorcycle in optimal shape, fluid control is of paramount importance. The three most important motorcycle maintenance stops that you always need to keep in mind are Oil, Coolant, and Brake fluid. Here’s an in-depth guide on why these three aspects of motorcycle maintenance shouldn’t be underestimated.
One of the key aspects of choosing the right engine lubricant is the viscosity of the oil. When you regularly use engine lubricants with the right viscosity of oil i.e. with an appropriate viscosity index for your particular engine, the downtime of your vehicle is minimized and the maintenance costs get optimized.
This is a very common question vehicle operators and fleet owners have. A straightforward answer would be No because gear oil and transmission fluid target different types of transmissions or mechanical environments. Gear oil is a lubricant for manual transmission while transmission fluid is a lubricant for the automatic transmission of vehicles. In essence, they perform the same functions but differ in chemical composition.
What you reap is what you sow, the saying goes. This means that farmers who want to properly achieve and maintain their production goals simply need to have high levels of preparedness across all their processes. They must keep their agricultural equipment maintained and cost-effective, which is where using the right universal tractor transmission oil and other lubricants comes into play! Find out more about it in this article!
Brake fluid selection is a particularly important task of vehicle maintenance. Different types of brake fluids match the requirements of specific braking systems. The most common ones used today are DOT 3, DOT 4, DOT 5, and DOT 5.1 brake fluids. Are all brake fluids the same? If not, what is the difference between these specialty fluids? Here’s what you need to know.
The engine coolant, in some geolocations better known as antifreeze, protects engines from overheating. In this article, we address the purpose and benefits of using engine coolant, and answer some of the most common questions, including: What does engine coolant do? How long can you run an engine without coolant? How does the cooling work? Let’s begin!
Fluid analysis is an important part of professional vehicle maintenance. It can help you spot problems in time, avoid costly repairs, and reduce the total cost of ownership (TCO). Put simply, fluid analysis is a procedure that will check greases, lubricants, and coolants to determine if they experienced contamination and in what state they’re in. Find out more!
The quenching process is a crucial step in the heat treatment of metals, as it rapidly cools a piece of metal to achieve or modify specific properties like hardness, strength, or toughness. Rapid cooling minimizes the amount of time metal spends at high temperatures and prevents faults that would otherwise occur. Learn more in this article.
Hybrid vehicles are a step up when in terms of environmental impact, fuel economy, and overall engine wear and tear, but they do require a bit of extra care when choosing engine oil. The frequent stop-start cycles put the engine under a significant strain, while lower temperatures can cause oil degradation. To deal with these issues, the use of lubricants specifically tailored for these hybrid vehicles is recommended.
Hydraulics represent systems where energy and power are transferred through fluids. The fluids applied are called hydraulic oils. What is hydraulic oil and where is hydraulic oil applied? What are the other benefits of using adequate high-performance hydraulic oils for the equipment and the hydraulic equipment owners? The team at Valvoline has prepared the answers to some of the most common questions about hydraulic oils.
Synthetic oil and lubricants were designed to overcome the shortcomings of mineral or conventional oil. Thanks to the modification at the molecular level and the incorporation of more advanced systems of additives in their formulations, synthetic oil and lubricants have many advantages over conventional ones. What are the benefits of synthetic oil? Read on to find out more about their top 8 advantages.
Choosing the right grease, oil, and other lubricating fluids specially designed for agricultural machines has the power of boosting productivity and making tractors and other machinery perform to their full potential. To help you with that, we're sharing our expertise in agricultural lubrication. Here is what you should pay attention to while choosing the right grease and oil for your tractor.
Excessive oil burning is a common problem. Typically, it takes place in the engine’s combustion chamber, but might also occur down towards and through the valves, or up once it passes the piston ring-pack. Any of these points can cause serious problems for the machinery. Therefore, understanding what causes an engine to burn oil and how to stop an engine from burning oil is crucial. Let’s take a closer look.
An engine coolant is a liquid crucial for the operation of any type of engine. There are many different types of coolant technologies for different applications. Also, there are different colors of coolant, and concentrated and ready-to-use products. It is very important though to make the right coolant choice for your vehicle or engine. Here’s all you need to know about coolants.
Owners of trucks and fleets aim to achieve optimal durability, efficiency, and performance of their heavy-duty vehicles. To do so, maintaining their fleet has to be one of their top priorities. One of the very first maintenance tasks is choosing the right truck fluids and lubricants. There are several liquids, lubes, and greases required for a reliable heavy-duty drive. Here, we’ll discuss the two most important ones which include truck coolant, antifreeze and engine oil.
Tractor fluid vs hydraulic oil, what are the differences? One simple answer would be that both products have different formulations and are for different purposes. Hydraulic oil transfers power, while tractor fluid lubricates the moving parts within the transmission. Choosing the right tractor fluid and hydraulic oil can have an effect on the performance of your equipment. On the opposite, selecting the wrong products can seriously damage your machinery’s hydraulic system and parts. Find more details in the article.
Understanding oil weights starts with understanding what it actually means. It represents the oil’s ability to flow at low temperatures and keep its protective properties at high temperatures. In cold weather, this means that if the oil is too thick, it becomes difficult to start an engine. On the other hand, if the oil becomes too thin at elevated temperatures, the right protective film is not created exposing the engine to damage. Read more.
There are different types of coolants in the market and quite often, engine owners face many questions. What coolant do I need or what coolant should I use? What is an OAT coolant? How often should I change the coolant? To help you make the right coolant choice for your engine, we’ve prepared the answers to these common questions. Here’s what you need to know to break down the coolant dilemma once and for all.
Although they are well-known for their qualities, heavy-duty diesel engines require proper maintenance. Regular checks contribute to the engine’s performance, reliability, and service life. They help you optimize work performance regardless of the industry and the diesel engine application and cut maintenance costs. What does proper maintenance of heavy-duty diesel engines include? What are the benefits of it? Read what to do to keep your engine at high-performance levels.
Industrial oils and greases play an important role in any industry. They are applied to improve the performance of industrial machinery and equipment and protect them against damage during operation. There are different types of industrial oils and their classification is based on their origin and composition. Speaking of oil classification, here are the things you need to know.
Oil leakage has to be managed properly. If neglected, it can have effects on employees' health and safety, serious environmental impacts, loss of productivity, and additional costs. Why do oil leaks occur? How to find oil leaks? The answers to these questions contribute to successful oil leakage control and management. Here are some of the basic things you need to know.
There are many different types of lubricants used across various industries, all of them have their own unique features and properties. That is why we have prepared a detailed guide that covers the most important notions to consider when it comes to industrial lubrication - the advantages of using industrial lubricants, their types, and factors to pay attention to when choosing the right lubricant.
Construction is among the most demanding industries when it comes to equipment wear and tear. To ensure all parts of a system are running smoothly, equipment maintenance teams need to select the right machinery lubrication. This has enormous impacts on performance levels and profitability in the construction industry. To help you better understand the importance of lubrication in such a specific industry, we have created our Ultimate Guide for Lubrication in Construction.
Proper lubrication of farming equipment enables achieving maximum performance, increased profits, reduced maintenance costs, improved productivity, and overcoming various challenges. This guide will shed more light on some of the most important notions concerning lubrication in agriculture, such as its key advantages, the types of lubricants used in the farming industry, and the practice of effective lubrication management. Read more!
Greases have traditionally been used to keep vehicles, machines, and their components lubricated. However, different types of grease produce different results based on the unique properties they possess. Due to this versatility, greases have many different applications across wide range of industries. If you are unsure which type of grease you need, take a look at some of the most common ones available on the market today.
Pellet production is a process where pellet machines operate under extreme conditions. High temperatures, high pressures, water vapor, and contaminants are all elements that can affect the performance of roller bearings. To properly protect these key components, the right grease is needed. Valvoline™ advanced grease for roller bearings helps you make more profit and reduce maintenance costs. Here’s how.
Selecting the right grease is crucial to maximizing application performance. No single grease is ideal for all circumstances, making grease selection a key factor in the efficiency and successful operation of equipment. When operators select a product that has been optimized to suit their requirements, they will realize superior performance, whether on land, at sea, or in the air. Read more.
Greases are semi-fluid-to-solid lubricating products, composed of thickener, oil, and additives, that play a critical part in the maintenance of your equipment and provide different benefits to hold crucial components protected. If you are interested to keep your operation moving and decrease downtime, read this article and learn more about the special role of grease and how to recognize high-quality grease.
Proper maintenance starts with a reliable report on the condition of your equipment. To achieve this, Valvoline Europe in partnership with Polaris Laboratories offers you a first-class value-add service - Fluid Analysis Program. Fluid Analysis is a vital health check for your equipment and it represents monitoring, reporting, and interpretation of the condition of fluids. Find out more!
The Original Motor Oil
America's First Motor Oil Brand
© 2024 Valvoline Global Operations
™ Trademark, Valvoline Global Operations