The following was published in CCJ's Equipment Maintenance Toolkit, 9th edition, updated July 2023 and sponsored by Valvoline Heavy Duty. CCJ's Equipment Maintenance Toolkit is a complementary industry resource, courtesy of our partnership with Valvoline Heavy Duty. You can download the entire Toolkit here.
From the owner-operators to the maintenance managers and technicians, it is everyone’s responsibility to keep the total cost of ownership (TCO) as low as possible. In the fast-paced world of fleet maintenance, that is often no easy task.
One of the most difficult challenges facing fleet managers and technicians is staying abreast of the different emerging trends. Whether those trends complement each other or are in conflict, fleets must decide which elements to add into their programs and which to ignore so the focus remains on total operational efficiency.
One trend that has been largely overlooked in the trucking industry is the use of lower-viscosity engine oils, specifically the use of API FA-4 certified lubricants, which can help improve fleets’ performance tremendously. Launched in 2016, FA-4 oils are generally approved for use in engines model year 2010 and newer. Detroit, International and Cummins have approved FA-4 for use in their engines.
Not only can fleet-wide use of low-viscosity engine oils enhance fuel economy, but they also help fleets reduce total operational costs. Furthermore, using FA-4 certified lubricants can have positive effects throughout an organization.
