Can Engine Oil Be Used as Lubricant?
3 Answers
Engine oil is essentially lubricant, with 'lubricant' being the professional term. Lubricants generally consist of two components: base oil and additives. The base oil of lubricants is primarily categorized into mineral base oil and synthetic base oil, with various classes and grades such as gasoline engine lubricants, diesel engine lubricants, and transmission lubricants. Below is a detailed introduction about it: Introduction 1: Lubricants are liquid lubricants used in various types of machinery to reduce friction, maintain machinery, and protect processed components. They mainly serve functions such as lubrication, cooling, rust prevention, cleaning, sealing, and cushioning. Introduction 2: Different categories of engine oil cannot be used interchangeably; for example, gasoline engine oil cannot be used in diesel engines.
As a seasoned car repair professional with over 15 years of experience, I've seen many people use engine oil to lubricate door hinges or bicycle chains. It does provide short-term lubrication because it contains base oil components. However, engine oil is specifically designed for high-temperature, high-load engine conditions. Using it elsewhere attracts dust and dirt, increases wear risks, and may even corrode certain metal surfaces. I advise against relying on it, especially for children's toys or food-related equipment, as residues can be unhealthy. Professional lubricants like silicone grease or engine oil additives are safer and more effective. While it might work as a temporary emergency solution, for long-term use, it's wiser to visit a repair shop for matching products to avoid accidental damage. Remember, engine oil evaporates quickly and has a strong odor—it's not worth the risk for small household components.
As a DIY enthusiast who enjoys tinkering with tools and machinery at home, I once tried using motor oil to lubricate the hinges and axles of an old cabinet. It temporarily solved the sticking issue and made the parts operate more smoothly. However, I found a major drawback of motor oil—it quickly accumulates dust and turns into black, greasy sludge, which is troublesome to clean and accelerates component wear. Compared to specialized lubricants like chain oil, the latter lasts longer and stays cleaner. I also occasionally use it to lubricate lawnmower blades, but I would never apply it to electrical appliances or plastic parts, as motor oil may seep in and cause short circuits or corrosion. If you need a temporary solution, I recommend trying low-viscosity motor oil, but switch to an appropriate product as soon as possible for safety and convenience, especially since specialized lubricants aren’t expensive.
