It is crucial that if you own a vehicle, you monitor how much oil you have and the quality of such oil. Oil serves as a lubricant so as to ensure free movement of the engine and parts of the engine.
You must be aware that there are various types of oil, but they are generally classified into two categories. Let’s extend the discussion of different types of oil: regular and synthetic, and if it is possible to use both together safely.
What is Conventional Oil?
Conventional motor oil is processed from crude oil and maintains the proper lubrication for the smooth working of motorcycle engines. It is effective even in extreme conditions when the engine is hot and can stay longer up to time. It first originated in the late 1800 and was used in the steam engine before it could be used in almost any form of engine.
As a rule, conventional oil is significantly cheaper from the synthetic one because the latter requires more processing. While this product is cheaper, it has extra essential elements added to it that guard the engine, remove sludge and prevent the formation of more sludge.
What is Synthetic Oil?
Synthetic oil is a form of engine oil mainly made from chemicals that are synthesized. It is made when the molecules from regular petroleum are first taken apart and then made back into the same size and shape.
This is not the same thing as conventional oil which has all sorts of molecule sizes as it originates from crude oil.
There are two types of synthetic motor oil: There are fully synthetic and synthetic blends. , as for full synthetic oil it is created without the use of any crude oil and has additives that enable it to last for longer times.
Fully synthetic blends combine regular oil and synthetic oil and provide the engine with a lot more protection than when using regular oil alone.
Can You Mix Conventional Oil With Synthetic?
Yes, you can mix a synthetic oil with conventional oil and it would not affect your engine in any way. When you blend them there is no harm, no foul, but the synthetic might not perform optimally if blended with the conventional oil.
As for some synthetic oils that are already a blend of both, then being combined is not an issue at all. But the truth is, most mechanics don’t recommend engaging in the practice on a regular basis.
The various components used in the oils may not blend correctly, and you may end up losing the benefits of using synthetic oil. Your bike’s engine performance may be high; thus, blending oils might hinder how efficiently the synthetic oil can perform. While it may not be as much help, however, it doesn’t damage the engine itself.
The Benefits of Synthetic Oil
Synthetic base oils have some cool advantages that regular oil doesn’t. It can cost more, but in some cases, it’s worth it.
Synthetic oil is made to:
- Last longer: It doesn’t break down as fast, so you don’t have to change it as often as regular oil.
- Handle Heat Better: This helps your engine run smoothly, even when it’s really hot outside.
- Flow Better In Cold Weather: This protects your engine when you start your bike in cold places.
In some situations, synthetic oil works better. If you take a lot of short trips, regular oil might not get hot enough to burn off moisture and dirt. If you live somewhere with really cold winters or super hot summers, synthetic oil does a better job of protecting your engine.
It’s also great if your engine tends to get sludge, which is thick, gooey stuff that can block oil passages. Synthetic oil is less likely to let that happen.
Another plus is that synthetic oil is better for the environment because it’s made in a lab and not taken from the ground like regular oil.
The Benefits of Conventional Oil
There are some advantages of conventional oil. First of all, it is easier to come across on sale and in most cases, it is inexpensive as compared to synthetic oil. Although many people are going for synthetic oil, you will find more regular oil being displayed in the market.
One of the differences used in the motor vehicle is that the conventional oil is advocated to be used for the older engine. As synthetic oil is fluent and fast, conventional oil is slow. Older engines may move a bit slower, and this is because more lubrication can be provided to them than new engines, hence the longevity of the engines.
Synthetic oil is not for older engines, and if applied, it might get out through the gaskets or even reach the combustion chamber, which is not good.
How to Decide Which Oil to Use?
The best way to know the type of oil to use is to refer to the owner’s manual of the specific model of motorcycle that you own. It will inform you of which kind of oil is most suitable for your vehicle. You can also look at the oil bottle; it will tell you which types of engines the oil is good for.
If you have any other questions about synthetic and conventional motor oil or whether you can mix them, give us a call at Fubex Lubricants. We have provided a guideline on which oil is suitable for your bike should you need our assistance.
Bottom Line
In conclusion it is essential to understand the process difference between conventional and synthetic motorcycle engine oil so that the best motorcycle engine oil can be selected. When you get down to the nuts and bolts of it, you can blend the two types of oil, though it is advisable to use one kind at a time and use the best one.
Synthetic oil, for instance, is more effective at extremely high or low temperatures than conventional oil. It also assists in preventing the build-up of sludge around your engine, which is especially good for new bikes or those that endure harsh weather & climates.
On the other hand, conventional oil is cheaper and is known to be good for older automobiles, with slow-moving engines requiring slow oil movement to provide lubrication.
Remember, as a rule, to consult your owner’s manual to know which oil type is most suitable for your motorcycle. If you have any questions, reach out to Fubex Lubricants for expert advice. Choosing the right oil will keep your engine running smoothly and extend its life!
FAQs
Q1: Can mixing synthetic and conventional motorcycle engine oils cause damage to my bike’s engine over time?
Ans: It’s totally okay to mix different kinds of oil, whether it’s different brands, thicknesses, or even synthetic and regular oil. People do it all the time! When you change your oil, about 15 to 20% of the old oil stays in your engine, so when you switch brands or types, you’re mixing them anyway.
Q2: Can I switch between synthetic and conventional oil?
Ans: Yes, you can switch between synthetic oil, semi-synthetic oil, and regular oil whenever you want, and it won’t cause any problems. Synthetic oil helps your engine start better in cold weather and lasts longer in hot weather.
Q3: Is it bad to mix different types of oil in a motorcycle?
Ans: Yes, mixing different brands of oil can be a problem. It might change the balance of the special ingredients in the oil, which can make it not work as well and not last as long.