Quote:
Originally Posted by Scorpyo
I believe the manual says don't use synthetic oil because of some "splash" process whatever that is. I'd prefer to use synthetic. Any advice?
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Some manufacturers say that synthetic oil is too slippery and consequently doesn't lubricate as well on splash lubricated engines. Most small 4 stroke engines use splash lubrication. Lawn mowers, snow blowers, most garden tractors, most golf carts, etc.
I have run synthetic in ALL my small engines up north because they don't get as thick as molasses in the cold weather. Synthetic oils last longer, don't shear apart as quickly, etc.
If there are examples of synthetic oils destroying common small engines, I've yet to hear of it.
There are issues with synthetics and propane and a few other minor issues, but as a whole, even where it's cautioned against, the better lubrication and longer life of a synthetic outweighs the downside.
Run what you want, just make sure it's a current oil and not something off the shelf from 30 years ago. While oil doesn't go bad unless contaminated, new oil, even regular oil, is vastly improved over oils from 20+ years ago.