The American Petroleum Institute (API) has released a series of tips for service providers for accommodating them and training technicians about the application of the trucking industry’s newest heavy-duty diesel engine oils, API CK-4 and FA-4.
API says CK-4 oils succeeded CJ-4 engine oils and are backward compatible diesel oils. Backward compatible means CK-4 may be used where CJ-4, CI-4 with CI-4 PLUS, CI-4, CH-4, and earlier service categories are recommended. API FA-4, on the other hand, is a new arrival intended for engines built beginning with the 2017 model year. There are currently 430 CK-4 oils and 65 FA-4 oils licensed by API and more are expected, API says.
CK-4 provides improved shear stability, oxidation resistance, and aeration control over CJ-4 in the familiar SAE 15W-40 and 10W-30 viscosity grades. API says FA-4 provides similar protection to CK-4 oils, but in lower viscosity grades to meet the needs of next-generation diesel engines being built for the 2017 model year and onwards. FA-4 oils meet the same performance measures as CK-4 but API says they also help increase fuel economy in engines designed for the lower viscosity FA-4 grades.
API says key improvements to the new oils include the following:
With some new diesel engines requiring FA-4 oils, API says customers, shops and technicians need to know how to manage CJ-4, CK-4, and FA-4 oils in their facilities. API recommends service providers create a transition plan for the shop; there may be a need for increased storage and the clear identification of the lubricants will reduce confusion.
API says first estimate the volumes of each oil a shop will require. Always check with the truck manufacturer to see whether they require FA-4 or CK-4 oil and the viscosity grade needed.
Be sure to mark tanks, storage, tools, etc. in advance of the first delivery of product to avoid co-mingling different products and misapplication. Assess a shop’s need for both oils and check on the availability from your supplier. Also ask about specific viscosity grades since some are changing. Identify a clear date to incorporate the new oils into the shop and clearly communicate that information to staff, API adds.
