How to Improve the Kinematic Viscosity of Engine Oil?
3 Answers
The following are methods to improve the kinematic viscosity of engine oil: 1. Use viscosity improvers: Add about 5% viscosity improvers, such as ethylene-propylene viscosity improvers or chloroprene rubber viscosity improvers. This method is low-cost and can also enhance the viscosity index, making it suitable for cold starts. 2. Use high-viscosity base oils: Incorporate 25% of high-viscosity base oils like 500SB or bright stock 150BS. Since these base oils have a viscosity ranging between 24~30, they can be used for adjustment, though this method is more costly. Additional information: 1. Winter oil grades: 0W, 5W, 10W, 15W, 20W, 25W. The symbol 'W' stands for Winter, and the smaller the number before 'W', the lower the low-temperature viscosity, the better the low-temperature fluidity, and the lower the applicable minimum temperature. 2. Summer oil grades: 20, 30, 40, 50. The larger the number, the higher the viscosity, and the higher the applicable maximum temperature.
I've been driving for over a decade and encountered many oil-related issues. To increase the kinematic viscosity, simply put, you need to change the oil. Once oil is poured into the engine, its viscosity is fixed, and you can't truly alter it by adding anything. I recommend directly switching to a higher viscosity oil, for example, from 5W-30 to 5W-40 or 10W-40. Before making the switch, check your vehicle's manual—don’t arbitrarily increase the viscosity grade, or you’ll face cold-start difficulties and increased fuel consumption. In extremely cold winters like those in northern regions, you also need to consider low-temperature fluidity, or the engine will struggle to start. Also, never trust online advice about additives. I once tried mixing gear oil into engine oil, and within a month, the engine noise increased. The mechanic said it disrupts the oil formulation—more harm than good.
As a long-time researcher in automotive lubrication, the most reliable way to increase oil viscosity is by switching products. The kinematic viscosity of engine oil depends on the base oil and additive formulation, which cannot be altered once poured into the engine. I've encountered car owners attempting to mix higher-viscosity oil with existing oil—this approach is inadvisable as it leads to unpredictable viscosity changes and potential sediment formation. Seasonal adjustments are recommended: during high summer temperatures, 10W-40 is more suitable than 5W-30 for maintaining oil film strength under heat. For vehicles exceeding 100,000 km where engine clearances have increased, 40-grade oil actually provides better component protection than 30-grade. Special attention must be paid—German and Japanese vehicles have different viscosity requirements, so always check the certification standards in your owner's manual before changing oil.
