Specifications

116
9 Operating media
Lubricating oil
Engine oil
Lubricating oils are specified according to performance and
quality class. It is usual for specifications to be given in accord-
ance with the API (American Petroleum Institute) and the ACEA
(European Automobile Manufacturers Association).
Permitted API oils: CF, CF-4, CI-4
Permitted ACEA oils: A3/B3, B3/B4
Only use oil of a recognised brand to lubricate the engine. The
choice of a correct oil guarantees that the engine starts easily,
because an oil film remains on the cylinder walls and bearing sur-
faces. The friction is low and so the starting rpm necessary for a
dependable start can be achieved with a lower starting torque. An
incorrect choice of oil can lead to a thickened oil layer on the cyl-
inder walls and bearing surfaces. This can in turn lead to higher
frictional resistance and more effort, which forms a hindrance to
reaching the starting rpm required for a dependable start, and this
results in a reduced life-span.
Recommended lubricating oil viscosity
There are two important considerations when it comes to ambient
temperature in order to achieve satisfactory engine performance.
• thepossibilitytoturntheengineoverquicklyenoughtomake
an easy start possible and
• adequatelubricationofinternalwear surfacesduring starting
and warming up.
By making the right choice of lubricating oil these requirements
can be met.
Because the viscosity (runniness) of lubricating oil varies with
temperature, the ambient temperature in which the engine is
started determines the choice of viscosity class (SAE class).
To avoid having to change the oil for different seasons we recom-
mend SAE 10W-40 all-season synthetic motor oil.
For example:
Vetus Marine Diesel Synthetic Engine Oil 10W-40
Shell Helix Plus 10W-40
For oil capacity see p. 112.