What is a semi-synthetic oil? Why use synthetics?
Semi-synthetic is a term that indicates that the oil is a blend of synthetic and mineral-based oils (plus additives). A semi-synthetic oil takes advantage of the oxidative stability, high-temperature performance and excellent lubricating properties of synthetic oils without sacrificing the natural solvency provided by mineral oil.


What is a multigrade oil and why should I use one?
A multigrade oil is formulated to meet the viscosity-grading requirements of more than one SAE grade. Multigrade oils use polymeric additives that give the oil the flexibility to lubricate effectively over a wider temperature range than monograde oils.

Compared to a monograde oil, a multigrade oil will provide better cold-start protection and a stronger lubricant film at typical operating temperatures. Other benefits include lower oil consumption and better fuel economy. Multigrades are also more versatile, since they do not need to be changed seasonally.


Is Exxon Elite any different than other oils?
Yes it is. Exxon Elite has a proprietary formulation. Exxon began its development in the mid-1990s, and has refined the formulation and additive package under rigorous testing.

Exxon engineers determined that fully synthetic oils may not have the solvency needed to handle the lead deposits resulting from the use of leaded fuel. So they developed a semi-synthetic formulation – Exxon Elite – that combines the best of both synthetics and conventional oils without sacrificing solvency characteristics. Exxon Elite also has a highly effective dispersant that will provide excellent deposit control.


Why should I use Exxon Elite?
Exxon Elite is the first new aviation oil formulation that has appeared on the market in a decade. There are many compelling reasons for all aircraft owners to try it.

Exxon Elite can provide advantages over virtually all other commercial aviation oils currently on the market. Some consumers may find that Exxon Elite gives them better wear and corrosion control versus their current lubricant. Others may find better rust protection. Still others may find that Exxon Elite is better in all of these categories.


Is Exxon Elite OEM approved? Is it U.S. military approved?
Yes. Exxon Elite is an SAE J1899 certified oil. That means it meets the requirements of engine OEMs and the U.S. military for ashless dispersant-containing oils. It meets MIL-L-22851D (obsolete) and is U.S. military approved. (This information is also noted on the Exxon Elite label.)

Exxon Elite also has FAA Supplemental Type Certificates for Lycoming and Continental engines. The FAA has further approved Exxon Elite as an Alternate Method of Compliance with Airworthiness Directive 80-04-03-R2, paragraph b.1, which requires the use of an anti-wear/anti-scuffing additive in some Lycoming engines. A Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin stating this fact has been issued by the FAA: SAIB No. NE-00-22.


What is the anti-wear/anti-scuffing additive you're referring to, and why is it important?
The anti-wear/anti-scuffing additive (sometimes referred to by the Lycoming stock number LW 16702) is a supplemental additive required in some Lycoming engines. This additive deters scuffing on the engine models in question, particularly during engine starts. The FAA has required its use in those engine models affected by Airworthiness Directive 80-04-03-R2, paragraph b.1.

Exxon Elite contains one of the two additives approved for this usage. Using an oil that already contains this additive results in a more consistent concentration of the additive throughout the drain interval, and should provide better protection against scuffing and wear than oils that do not contain the additive.

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