Dennis,

Great info which really makes one think! Or Google...

Reviewing this link below, it appears that Cold Crank Viscosity varies by
oil brand as well.

Helps Engine Start Easier

The Cold Crank Simulator Test determines the apparent viscosity of
lubricants at low temperatures and high shear rates. Viscosity of lubricants
under these conditions is directly related to engine cranking and
start-ability. The lower a lubricant's cold crank viscosity, the easier an
engine will turn over in cold temperatures.

The low cold crank viscosity of AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oil reduces drag on
moving engine parts and allows engines to achieve critical cranking speed in
extremely frigid temperatures. Engines turn over quickly and dependably in
the coldest winter temperatures.

http://www.tsadvancedsynthetics.com/facts/Comparative_Motor_Oil_Testing_AMSO
IL_vs_The_Others.htm

Still not sure I want to drop the big bucks for Amsoil, but the Mobil 1
15W50 Extreme seems to be a great performer in the tests as well.  If you
can get by with one-change a year or every 7,500 miles or so, then it really
isn't too bad.

Jack

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Dennis Haynes
Sent: Tuesday, February 06, 2007 9:59 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Re: Castrol, QT, 5W50 vs. Amsoil - cold no-start

Even at 10 degrees, the 20w-50 should not keep it from starting. The issue
is what happens after starting. If you are only getting a few seconds of
cranking, you have a low or bad battery. If the battery is bad, a jump start
may not help as the long cables will not carry enough current. Jump starting
relies on the battery being able to accept and then deliver some energy. If
the battery can not deliver sufficient power, the fuel and ignition system
will not work properly. Continuous trying will cause the engine to get
flooded.

Dennis

----- Original Message -----
From: "Jack R."
Date: Tuesday, February 6, 2007 8:38 am
Subject: Re: Castrol, QT, 5W50 vs. Amsoil - cold no-start
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM

> I wonder how Amsoil 20W50 would do in the sub-zero temperatures?
> Being a
> full synthetic, I would assume better than conventional oil.
> The below
> study (probably sponsored by Amsoil) makes a strong case for
> using the
> product. Interesting read either-way.
>
> http://www.synthetic-motor-oil-change-and-
> filters.com/amsoil_articles/oil-co
> mparison-on-the-dynometer/
>
> I have a 91 Westy with 56k original miles, just purchased by my
> friends,sitting in my driveway and we haven't been able to get
> it started since the
> temps dropped below 10 degrees. It will only crank for a few seconds,
> cough, tries to turn over, then nothing. Checked the battery
> and there is
> just under 600 CCA left on it, cleaned the terminal posts, even tried
> jumping it for a bit more power. Nothing... There is no rush
> to get it
> going, except the blocked driveway, and I am not about to crawl
> under it at
> -4 degrees! I will probably wait until it warms up, probably by
> July!!
> I think the oil is just too thick, not sure what is in it.
>
> Jack
>