ABSTRACT
This chapter evaluates the main changes that have occurred in gasoline engine oils during the 1980s. It looks at those changes and the reasons for them and, second, to compare in terms of engine performance the technology of today with that of the early 80s. Other changes which have occurred during the 80s include a trend towards low viscosity oils together with a requirement for low volatility. At one time there was also a trend towards low phosphorus oils which required the use of alternative anti-wear additives but this seems to have disappeared for the time being. Additionally, the base oils may well include some non-conventional stocks and the additive package, therefore, some antioxidant. The higher molecular weight succinimides with much lower levels of nitrogen found in SG oils are much less aggressive towards the bearings than the low molecular monosuccinimides.
