What is the difference between 320 gear oil and 220 gear oil?
2 Answers
320 gear oil and 220 gear oil difference: The 220 grade is slightly thinner than the 320 grade, with slightly different specific parameter indicators. The kinematic viscosity (100°C)/(mm2/s) for the 220 grade is 198~<242; for the 320 grade, it is 288~<352. Introduction to gear oil: 1. Gear oil is primarily composed of petroleum lubricating base oil or synthetic lubricating oil, mixed with extreme pressure anti-wear agents and oiliness agents to form an important lubricating oil. 2. Gear oil mainly serves to lubricate gears and bearings, prevent wear and corrosion, and assist in heat dissipation for gears.
Last time when I changed the gear oil, I chose the 220 grade. But during a long-distance drive, I noticed the transmission was running a bit too hot and making unusual noises. Later I learned that 320 is a thicker oil that provides better protection under high temperatures or heavy loads, making it more suitable for mountain driving or vehicles frequently carrying heavy loads. The 220 grade is thinner, which makes cold starts easier in winter, but doesn't provide sufficient lubrication in hot weather, accelerating gear wear. After switching to 320 in my old pickup truck, it ran much smoother. Remember, choose oil based on season and usage—if the manual recommends thicker oil, don't take shortcuts with thinner ones. This lesson taught me that cars, like people, need the right 'diet' to go the distance.
