Whats the difference between 5w50 and 20w50?

Whats the difference between 5w50 and 20w50?

The first number refers to its viscosity, or resistance to flow, when cold (e.g. 5W). Think of the “W” as standing for “winter.” The lower the number, the faster the oil will flow when cold, meaning a 5W-50 oil will flow faster at startup than a 20W-50 oil.

What is 5w50 oil used for?

A 5W-50 motor oil is suited for a broad range of applications including motorsport, classic/collector cars and extreme driving conditions like towing and high operating temperatures.

Can I use 20W-50 for my car?

Virtually every mechanic recommends the use of 20w50. 20W-50 engine oil is no good for modern engines, regardless of the mileage. It is too thick, and flow to sensitive areas like multivalve cylinders, VVT / VANOS and any other timing adjusters that rely on instant oil pressure will be impeded.

Why is it not recommended to overfill the engine with oil?

Overfilling engine oil can raise the level of oil in the pan to the point where the crankshaft starts to make significant contact with the reservoir. Since it moves so fast, it can turn the oil from a liquid into a froth that the pump is no longer able to siphon and distribute.

What cars use 5W50 oil?

5W50 Motor Oil – Quart

  • Popular for performance engines in high-temperature climates.
  • Popular for 5.4L Supercharged Ford applications like Shelby GT 500 and Ford GT, Focus RS (WSS-M2C931-B/-C)
  • Recommended for use in 2001-2002 Range Rover engines.
  • Recommended for API SN/SM/SL/SJ/SH/SG/CF and ACEA A3/B3/B4.

Is 5W50 a thick oil?

The 5w50 oil has a higher viscosity than 5w40, which means it’s thicker and can perform better under high-load. However, this also means that it’s more resistant to shear, meaning that the engine oil won’t thin out as fast as a lighter weight oil at high temperatures or in higher load situations.

Why is 20w50 engine oil is the best?

– Firstly, you need to make sure that your motorbike is in flat condition and on its original stand. – Secondly, before checking the motorcycle oil, make sure the engine isn’t hot. – Thirdly, don’t forget to remove the dipstick from the oil tank. – Fourthly, check the color, level, and viscosity of your 10w40 motorcycle oil.

What is the difference between 20W40 motorcycle oil and 20w50?

The smaller number, (the 20 part of 20w-50) describes how the oil behaves at 40 deg C and a 20w at 40 deg C is about 10 times thicker than your engine wants. A 10w-40 is better at around 6 times thicker and a 0w-40 is much better at about 4 times thicker.

Can you use 20w50 oil in your new engine?

It is also a more effective sealant than thinner oils. Both of these benefits extend engine life. Depending on the recommendations for the particular vehicle, 20W50 oil is suitable for large or small diesel engines, gasoline engines, motorcycles and aviation vehicles. It is also suitable for both air- and liquid-cooled engines.

What is the meaning of 20w50 in engine oil?

by Christina Ash. car image by sasha from Fotolia.com. The numbers 20W50 refer to the viscosity of the motor oil, set by the Society of American Engineers. This refers to its fluidity or thickness. The “20W” indicates how quickly the engine will start when cold or in cold weather. The “50” refers to the thickness of the oil when the motor has been running for a while. 20W50 motor oil is relatively viscous and thick.