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A technique for evaluating high temperature oxidation and corrosion tendencies of automotive crankcase lubricants is described. The technique utilizes a versatile bench apparatus which, with a minimum of modification, can be used for either evaluating thermal oxidation stability of gear lubricants or oxidation-corrosion tendencies of automotive crankcase lubricants. The apparatus is relatively compact and requires a minimal lubricant sample. Design of the apparatus permits close control of all operating parameters and provides satisfactory test data repeatability. Retainable copper-lead test bearings are used as the indicator in predicting a pass or fail of fully formulated crankcase lubricants as in the case of the CRC L-38-559 (Federal Test Method 3405) technique. Engine and bench test data are compared to illustrate the capabilities of this new bench technique.

Experimental fuels made up of cottonseed oil, transesterified cottonseed oil (methyl ester) and No. 2 diesel fuel have been compared to a baseline No. 2 diesel fuel in a turbo-charged, open chamber diesel engine. All fuel blends were analyzed and their properties compared to those of typical No. 2 diesel fuels. Test results include data on performance, gaseous emissions and limited (200-hour) cyclic durability. Crankcase oil samples were withdrawn at regular intervals during durability tests and analyzed for indications of fuel-lubricant compatibility. The paper presents the data obtained and discusses effects of fuel properties and engine operating conditions on the short and long-term response of existing diesels.