A supplement to API SP standard has been requested by a number of automakers.
Testing and marketing of lubricants has had to change in response to new vehicle technology - GF-6 being an example of this. However, delays in the development of GF-6 specifications have resulted in a request by automakers for a new standard, API SN Plus.
The supplement is intended to identify oils that meet API SN and provide additional protection against low-speed pre-ignition in turbocharged direct injection gasoline powered engines.
Direct changes to the standard include the addition of Sequence IX LSPI test to API SN and modified API Donuts. Currently waiting for ASTM approval and API adoption of read across guidelines, work will need to be done for the IX LSPI test. The API Lubricants Group is now balloting the change to API 1509 to accommodate SN Plus.
The API Lubricants Group is now balloting the change to API 1509 to accommodate SN Plus, with a closing date of the end of December.
This follows the proposal for a new heavy-duty engine oil standard PC-12, as reported previously by OATS.