Operator`s manual

66 Oil System
Sulfur Level and TBN
Oils are available with different levels of
Total Base Number (TBN) to counteract
high sulfur levels in fuel. TBN measures
an oil’s alkalinity and ability to neutralize
acid. Normally, the higher the fuel sulfur,
the higher the TBN is needed.
Sulfur creates highly acidic pollutants in the
oil that break down the additives at a higher
rate. The sulfur content in low-sulfur fuel
has been regulated to a maximum of 0.05%
by weight for No. 2–D diesel fuel. For fuels
that have a sulfur content of 0.5% by weight
and above, Volvo Trucks North America,
Inc. recommends that oil change intervals
are cut in half so a shorter mileage is run
between oil changes.
Oil Additives
CAUTION
Extra oil additives must not under any
circumstances be added to any oil used.
A shortened engine life may be the result.
Using oils to the quality standards
recommended in this manual makes the use
of extra oil additives unnecessary, as these
oils already contain a balanced treatment
of additives. The use of extra oil additives
such as break-in oils, top oils, graphitizers
and friction reducing compounds are not
necessary and can even be harmful to the
engine.