Navigating the differences between 85w140 and 80w90 gear oil can be quite a task. Did you know that these two types of oils have different viscosities, influencing their performance in various conditions?
We’ll demystify these gear oils, shedding light on their fundamental differences, advantages, and when to ideally use them.
Key Takeaways
- 85w140 gear oil has a higher viscosity and is better suited for heavy-duty trucks and shock loading.
- 80w90 gear oil is more liquid-like and flows better in cold temperatures, making it suitable for general vehicles.
- Mixing different viscosities of gear oils is possible but generally not recommended for optimal performance.
- It’s important to consider factors like the specific application, manufacturer’s recommendations, extreme pressures, cold flow properties, and lubricant specifications when choosing gear oil.
Contents
Understanding Gear Oil and its Importance
Gear oil plays a big part in making your vehicle work. It is like the blood in our bodies for vehicles. Its job is to stop metal parts from grinding each other. It forms a layer between them and cuts down heat and wear.
When gears turn, they can make a lot of heat if there isn’t something to cool it off.
Picking the right gear oil matters greatly too! For example, you need thicker oil for heavy-duty trucks bearing huge loads or withstanding shock loading. Different types of gear oils have specific jobs based on their thickness and other features.
Using the wrong one can harm your vehicle’s engine and may lead to costly fixes later on! So pick wisely and understand how vital gear oil is for your ride’s health.
What is 85w140 and 80w90 Gear Oil?
85w140 and 80w90 are types of gear oil. Gear oil keeps the parts in your car running smoothly. It is a special kind of motor oil. The numbers tell us how thick or thin the oil is.
The “W” stands for winter. This tells us how well the gear oil flows at low temps. Low numbers like “80” mean that it flows faster when cold than high numbers like “85”.
The last number shows how fast the fluid pours at normal engine heat (around 212F). Higher numbers like “140” means it stays thicker under heat compared to lower ones such as “90”.
So, think of 85w140 as a thicker type, best for heavy loads and shock-loading use. On the other hand, 80w90 flows better in cold and suits the most common cars you see on roads.
Differences between 85w140 and 80w90 Gear Oil
85w140 gear oil has a higher viscosity index and thicker consistency than 80w90 gear oil, making it better suited for heavy-duty trucks and shock loading. Want to learn more about their differences? Keep reading!
Viscosity index
The viscosity index deals with the thickness of gear oil. Gear oils like 85w140 and 80w90 both have a viscosity index of 110. That means they don’t change much with heat or cold. Thicker oil, like 85w140, offers better protection for your car’s gears.
It keeps a strong film between moving parts so they won’t wear out fast. But 80w90 gear oil is more liquid-like and less thick than 85w140 gear oil. So it flows easier in freezing temperatures!
Kinematic viscosity
Kinematic viscosity is an important factor to consider when choosing gear oil. It measures how easily the oil flows and how well it can create a lubricating film between moving parts.
The higher the kinematic viscosity, the thicker the oil. In our case, both 80w90 and 85w140 gear oils have similar viscosities since their viscosity index is the same at 110. However, 85w140 gear oil is generally thicker than 80w90 gear oil, which can provide better protection from shock loading and extreme pressures.
So, if you’re looking for extra durability in heavy-duty applications, 85w140 might be a good choice for you.
Pour point
The pour point is an important factor to consider when choosing gear oil. It refers to the lowest temperature at which the oil can flow freely without becoming too thick or solidifying.
For 80w90 gear oil, the pour point is typically around -12 degrees Celsius, while for 85w140 gear oil, it is lower at around -24 degrees Celsius. This means that 85w140 gear oil has better cold flow properties and can withstand freezing temperatures more effectively than 80w90 gear oil.
So, if you live in a colder climate or operate your vehicle in extreme weather conditions, opting for 85w140 gear oil may be a wise choice to ensure proper lubrication and protection for your gears.
Can You Use 85w140 Instead of 80w90 Gear Oil?
Yes, you can use 85w140 gear oil instead of 80w90 gear oil in certain situations. Both types of gear oils are commonly used in automotive applications. However, it is important to consider the specific application and the manufacturer’s recommendations before making a switch.
85w140 gear oil is thicker than 80w90 gear oil and has a higher viscosity rating. This means that it provides better protection from shock loading and can withstand extreme pressures.
It is often recommended for heavy-duty trucks or vehicles that are subjected to heavy loads.
On the other hand, 80w90 gear oil is more liquid-like and less thick compared to 85w140 gear oil. It is suitable for general vehicles and offers improved cold flow properties, making it ideal for use in manual transmissions and differentials.
While mixing these two types of gear oils is possible, it is generally recommended to stick to one viscosity for optimal performance. If you do decide to mix them, make sure to drain and replace the old oil with a new mixture based on your needs.
In conclusion, whether you can use 85w140 instead of 80w90 depends on the specific application and what your vehicle manufacturer recommends. Consider factors such as load capacity, operating conditions, and temperature requirements when choosing the right gear oil for your vehicle.
Advantages of Using 85w140 Gear Oil
85w140 gear oil offers better protection for heavy-load trucks and can withstand shock loading, making it ideal for high-performance vehicles.
Better protection for heavy-load trucks
85w140 gear oil provides better protection for heavy-load trucks. Its thicker viscosity helps to maintain a thick lubricating film between moving parts, reducing friction and wear.
This makes it ideal for applications where extreme pressures and shock loading are expected, which is often the case with heavy-duty trucks carrying heavy loads. By using 85w140 gear oil, truck owners can ensure that their vehicles have the necessary protection to withstand these demanding conditions and prolong the lifespan of their gears and components.
Can withstand shock loading
85w140 gear oil is specifically designed to withstand shock loading. Its thicker viscosity helps it form a strong lubricating film between moving parts, providing better protection when sudden impacts occur.
This makes it ideal for heavy-duty trucks and other applications where extreme pressure and shock loading are expected. So if you need a gear oil that can handle tough conditions without sacrificing performance, 85w140 gear oil is the way to go.
Advantages of Using 80w90 Gear Oil
80w90 gear oil provides several advantages. It is suitable for general vehicles and offers improved cold flow, making it ideal for use in freezing temperatures.
Suitable for general vehicles
80w90 gear oil is suitable for general vehicles because of its lower viscosity compared to 85w140 gear oil. It flows more easily in cold temperatures, which can be beneficial for everyday driving situations.
This type of gear oil is commonly used in manual transmissions and differentials found in regular cars and trucks. It provides adequate protection and lubrication for normal loads and operating conditions.
Choosing 80w90 gear oil ensures that your vehicle’s gears function smoothly and efficiently without any unnecessary wear or damage.
Improved cold flow
When it comes to gear oil, one important factor to consider is its cold flow properties. The term “cold flow” refers to how well the oil performs at freezing temperatures. In this case, 80w90 gear oil has an advantage over 85w140 gear oil.
Due to its lower viscosity, 80w90 flows more easily in colder conditions, which makes it ideal for general vehicles. On the other hand, while 85w140 gear oil may not have as good of a cold flow performance, it offers better protection and can withstand shock loading.
So if you’re using your vehicle for heavy-duty purposes or operating in extreme conditions, such as off-roading or towing heavy loads, then 85w140 gear oil might be the better choice for you.
Can You Mix 80w90 and 85w140 Gear Oil?
Mixing 80w90 and 85w140 gear oils is possible, but it’s recommended to stick to one viscosity for optimal performance. Here are some factors to consider:.
- Mixing different viscosities can affect the overall viscosity of the oil.
- The final viscosity may not meet the specifications required by your vehicle’s manufacturer.
- It is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for gear oil type and viscosity.
- If you do mix them, it is advisable to drain and replace them with a single type of gear oil at the next opportunity.
- Consult a professional or refer to a viscosity chart for more information on compatible mixes.
Remember that using the right gear oil that meets your vehicle’s needs is crucial for proper lubrication and performance.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Gear Oil
- The specific application: Consider the type of vehicle and its usage. Different gear oils are designed for different purposes, such as heavy-duty trucks or general vehicles.
- Manufacturer’s recommendations: Follow the guidelines provided by the vehicle manufacturer. They will specify the type and viscosity of gear oil suitable for your vehicle.
- Viscosity rating: Check the SAE viscosity rating to ensure that it meets the requirements of your vehicle’s transmission, differential, or gearbox.
- Extreme pressure and shock loading: If you drive under heavy loads or in harsh conditions, choose a gear oil with a higher viscosity and better protection against shock loading.
- Cold flow properties: If you live in a cold climate, consider gear oils with improved cold flow properties to ensure smooth operation in freezing temperatures.
- Drain and replace intervals: Some gear oils require more frequent changes than others. Choose a gear oil that fits your maintenance schedule.
- Lubricant specifications: Pay attention to any specific specifications required by your vehicle’s manufacturer, as these can vary between different models and brands.
- Synthetic or conventional: Decide whether to use synthetic gear oil for improved performance and longer service life, or conventional oil if it meets all the necessary requirements.
- Budget considerations: While quality is important, consider your budget when choosing a gear oil. Compare prices and select one that offers good value without compromising performance.
Some important notes
- Thicker oil, such as 85w140, can maintain a thicker lubricating film between moving parts.
- 85w140 gear oil is recommended for use in applications where extreme pressures and shock loading are expected.
- Both 80w90 and 85w140 gear oils are commonly used in automotive applications.
- Mixing 80w90 and 85w140 gear oils is possible, but it is generally recommended to stick to one viscosity for optimal performance.
- The choice between 80w90 and 85w140 gear oil depends on the specific application and the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Final Words
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing between 85w140 and 80w90 gear oil, it’s important to consider the specific application and manufacturer’s recommendations.
Thicker 85w140 gear oil provides better protection for heavy-load trucks and can withstand shock loading, while thinner 80w90 gear oil is suitable for general vehicles with improved cold flow.
Mixing the two oils is possible but sticking to one viscosity is generally recommended for optimal performance. So make sure to check your vehicle’s specifications before deciding which gear oil to use.
