๐งชWhat is the Best Synthetic Oil I Can Use in My Lawnmower?
Did you ever watch Star Trek: The Next Generation? The crew would drink "synthehol," a futuristic beverage that mimicked alcohol without any of the intoxicating effects.
What a waste!
They should have been making real homebrew. But one synthetic that is definitely not a waste is synthetic oil for your lawnmower.
The best synthetic oil will offer superior engine protection at all temperatures, improve starting in cold weather, and can even reduce oil consumption. If you want to give your mower the ultimate protection and extend its life, making the switch to synthetic is a smart move.
The Science of Synthetic Oil: What Makes It So Good?
What makes synthetic oil so good is that it's more "oily" than conventional mineral oils. Here's what that means at a molecular level:
- Uniform Molecules: Conventional oil is refined from crude oil, so its molecules are of varying sizes. Synthetic oil is engineered in a lab to have uniform, consistent molecules. This allows it to flow more freely and create a stronger, more stable lubricating film between moving parts.
- Superior Performance at Extreme Temperatures: Because of its uniform structure, synthetic oil resists breaking down under the high heat of an air-cooled engine. It also remains fluid in sub-zero temperatures, which is why it was originally developed by German scientists during World War II for use on the frigid Eastern Front.
- Advanced Additives: Synthetic oils are packed with a superior blend of detergents and dispersants. These additives are better at suspending dirt and preventing sludge buildup, meaning your engine stays cleaner and performs more efficiently.
This is why regular use of synthetic oil can significantly reduce engine wear and prolong the life of your small engine, whether it's in a lawnmower or a chainsaw.
๐The Gold Standard: Briggs & Stratton Synthetic Oil
One of the most popular synthetic oils on the market just so happens to be produced by one of the most famous lawnmower engine manufacturers, Briggs and Stratton. As an owner of a Briggs engine, I can attest to their quality and reliability.
Their synthetic oil, available in grades like SAE 5W-30 and 10W-30, is ideal for use in all air-cooled 4-cycle engines and provides the best possible protection for your machine.
Which Synthetic Grade Should You Choose?
As the experts at Briggs and Stratton advise, the choice depends on your climate:
- 5W-30 Synthetic Oil: This is an excellent all-around choice for most outdoor power equipment, performing well in both cold and hot temperatures.
- Vanguard 15W-50 Synthetic Oil: If you operate your equipment in consistently hot temperatures, this thicker oil provides the absolute best protection against heat-related breakdown.
Always check your engine's user manual for the manufacturer's specific recommendation. If you've lost it, a quick Google search will usually turn up a PDF copy.