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frequently asked questions
What is a semi-synthetic oil? Why use synthetics?
What is a multigrade oil and why should I use one?
Is Exxon Elite any different than other oils?
Is Exxon Elite OEM approved? Is it U.S. military approved?
What is the anti-wear/anti-scuffing additive you're referring to, and why is it important?
If I use Exxon Elite can I extend my drain intervals?
Can I mix Exxon Elite with conventional mineral oils – either monogrades or multigrades?
Can I use supplemental additives with Exxon Elite?
Will Exxon Elite help my engine make it to TBO (time between overhaul)?
Are there any restrictions as to type/age of airplane for using Exxon Elite?
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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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If I use Exxon Elite can I extend my drain intervals?
No. Regardless of the oil you are using, OEMs and the FAA require that standard oil drain intervals be maintained. That will not change with the introduction of Exxon Elite.
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Can I mix Exxon Elite with conventional mineral oils – either monogrades or multigrades?
Yes you can, but you will not reap the full benefits of Exxon Elite if you mix it with other oils. In order to gain SAE J1899 certification, a lubricant must undergo compatibility testing that proves that it is compatible in any proportion with any other similarly certified oil. Accordingly, Exxon Elite is compatible with any certified ashless dispersant oil, including both monograde and multigrade oils. It is also compatible with break-in oils (SAE J1966) and can be used immediately following break-in.
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Can I use supplemental additives with Exxon Elite?
While supplemental additives will probably do no harm, their use is not recommended. With the exception of the anti-wear/anti-scuffing additives required for some Lycoming engines, the claims made by manufacturers of supplemental additives are typically hard to prove or disprove.
Exxon Elite contains a proprietary formulation that carefully balances the properties of its base oils with the properties of its additives to ensure that the oil provides the protection you need, lasts long enough to get you to your next drain interval and is fully compatible with other certified products. Supplemental additives are typically an unnecessary added cost.
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Will Exxon Elite help my engine make it to TBO (time between overhaul)?
There are a wide variety of factors that affect whether your engine makes it to TBO or even beyond TBO. According to Exxon's engineering tests, Exxon Elite's new formulation provides excellent protection against wear, corrosion and rust. In other words, it will do its part in taking you to TBO.
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Are there any restrictions as to type/age of airplane for using Exxon Elite?
Exxon Elite can be used in any application requiring an SAE J1899 or MIL-L-22851D (obsolete) oil. Typically, the oil specification you need is determined by engine model and not by aircraft model. Therefore, Exxon always recommends checking your engine operating manual for information on oil requirements.
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Do I need a special oil filter with Exxon Elite? No. Exxon Elite requires no special filtration. Will Exxon ever produce an extended-TBO oil?
Significant progress has been made over the last 20 years in extending TBOs from about 1,200 hours to the 2,000-hour specification that many engines enjoy today. This progress, however, did not occur as the result of changes in any single engine component or engine lubricant. The broad acceptance of ashless dispersant oils has certainly helped extend TBOs, but overall progress has been achieved through a variety of innovations. Any continued extension of TBOs, if it occurs, will likely be achieved in the same manner, and not just via a better oil.
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Where can I buy Exxon Elite?
Click here to discover where you can find Elite during your travels.
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