ZDDP #s don't tell the whole story; an oil can have high ZDDP levels and still not be a great oil.
True, other factors (detergents, etc.) also determine the quality of an oil. But ZDDP numbers are typically what people argue about. More ZDDP isn't always better. ZDDP concentrations over about 1800 ppm can actually do harm.
Yep, and that might be considered the tip of the iceberg:
- base stocks, especially for synthetics
- HTHS (High Temp / High Shear) ratings
- where a specific oil's "cold" and "hot" viscosities fall w/in the industry standard ranges
- if molybdenum is present, and the lifespan of the copper deactivator included to offset moly's corrosive effect on copper bearings
- and other criteria of which I'm sure are important, but of which I'm ignorant
Too many legit variables, too many opinions vs facts, lots of conficting personal experiences w/ the same products...
I DO have some pretty specific likes & dislikes for oil brands and components. However, expressing my OPINIONS (even if based on facts/research I've found) won't do anything here but add to the static (used as a noun, not an adjective).
