>So, let me get this straight: If you use synthetic oil right from
>mile #1, it will not leak. But if you switch from regular oil to
>synthetic sometime after mile #1, you will get black spots all over
>your driveway?????
>
>This is what I'm gathering from the recent thread.
>
>stefan
>
>


Uh, no...that isn't a logical conclusion from the data eighter....

YEARS ago when syntheitcs were introduced to the market there were seal
swelling problems giving a bad rep to synthetics that perpetuates even
today, simple chemistry changed this very quickly.  There is a HUGE
differences in one respect between conventional and fully syntheitc
lubricants...WAX.  In a conventional oil the molecules vary greatly in size
and have a good pobability to sludge.  As a gasket ages (due to heat and
solvents) it dries and sludge build up prevents seal swelling components
from reaching the seal (thus it cannot get revitalized).  Cracks eventually
result in an old and dry gasket...waxes and sludge CAN plug the small
cracks preventing leaking.

Adding a syntheic to a seal that has aged will, with syntetic oils improved
solvency and detergency, dissolve sludge buildup.  Combining the sovency
and detergency with more consistant molecular size, leaking MAY occur.  An
engine that is well maintained with timely oil changes will tolerate a
change to synthetics at any point is it's life.

**********************************************************
Brian Gracek		       	Saint Cloud, Minnesota, USA
Chemist				Vision Ease Lens


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