Future Two-Cycle Engine Oil Development - A New Challenge

Today's two-cycle engine oils are not expected to adequately meet future engine oil requirements. It is recommended that oil developers use a Comprehensive Oil Development Plan for future oils. A Plan should include five key elements: Engine Manufacturer Contact, Mechanism Studies and Failures Analysis, Oil Formulating, Laboratory Engine Evaluation, and Field Evaluation. These elements are described through examples of lubrication and deposit programs. The most important future oil performance requirement is considered to be scuffing control. Data from the G15 laboratory engine scuff test are presented which should assist in the development of future oils. The importance of Mechanism Studies and Failure Analysis programs to support formulation for antiscuffing is stressed. A review of published air-cooled engine deposit test procedures has shown the lack of world-wide standardization. Satisfactory water-cooled engine test procedures are available although the standardized BIA-TCW test needs modernization. In general, studies of laboratory engine test procedures show a need for better correlation with field evaluations - the ultimate proving ground for future oils.