Can I Use 85w140 instead of 80w90: Understanding the Difference

Using 85w 140 instead of 80w 90 may not be a bad choice, but it may not be suitable for use in very cold regions.

On the other hand, it is not recommended to use 80w 90 instead of 85w 140 in your vehicle, as the former has a lower viscosity level and may not provide adequate protection for your gearbox.

Additionally, it is possible to mix these two types of oil, as they can balance out each other’s viscosity levels, but it is always best to use the recommended oil type for your vehicle to ensure proper performance and protection.

Also Read: 15w40 or 10w30 Oil: Which Is Better?

85w140 Gear Oil vs 80w90 – Difference Between 80w90 and 85w140

Before getting into further discussion let’s see the difference between 80w90 and 85w140.

Property	85W140	80W90
Viscosity	High viscosity	Lower viscosity
Use	Heavy-duty use	Regular use
Temperature	Suitable for high temp	Suitable for low to med
Wear control	Good wear control	Average wear control
Fuel economy	Poor fuel economy	Better fuel economy
Cold weather	Not suitable	Suitable for cold weather

Based on the comparison table, there are several reasons why these two types of lubricants are different and suitable for different applications:

1. Viscosity: 85W140 has a higher viscosity rating than 80W90, which means it is thicker and better suited for heavy-duty use, such as in trucks, SUVs, and other vehicles that carry heavy loads.
2. Use: 85W140 is typically used for heavy-duty applications, while 80W90 is suitable for regular use.
3. Temperature: 85W140 is better suited for high-temperature environments, while 80W90 is suitable for low to medium-temperature environments.
4. Wear control: 85W140 has better wear control properties, which makes it more suitable for heavy-duty applications that require better protection against wear and tear.
5. Fuel economy: 80W90 has better fuel economy properties than 85W140, which makes it a better choice for regular-use vehicles.
6. Cold weather: 80W90 is more suitable for use in cold weather conditions than 85W140, which is not recommended for use in low-temperature environments.

Overall, the choice between 85W140 and 80W90 lubricants depends on the type of vehicle, the intended use, and the environmental conditions. It is always best to consult the car manual or seek professional advice to ensure that you are using the right type of lubricant for your vehicle.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Using 85w140 instead of 80w90

Using 85W140 instead of 80W90 as a lubricant in vehicles or machinery can have both advantages and disadvantages. Here are the key points to consider:

Advantages:

1. Enhanced Film Strength: 85W140 oil has a higher viscosity rating than 80W90, indicating its ability to maintain a thicker lubricating film between moving parts. This increased film strength can provide better protection against wear, especially under high loads and extreme operating conditions.
2. Improved Extreme Pressure (EP) Performance: The “W” rating in oil viscosity refers to its performance in cold temperatures, while the numbers represent its performance at high temperatures. The higher numbers in 85W140 indicate its ability to withstand higher temperatures without breaking down. Consequently, it offers improved EP properties, making it suitable for heavy-duty applications that involve high loads and stress.
3. Better Thermal Stability: With its higher viscosity and thermal stability, 85W140 oil can handle elevated temperatures more effectively than 80W90. It can resist thermal breakdown and oxidation, ensuring prolonged lubricant life and consistent performance, especially in hot climates or during prolonged operation.
4. Enhanced Gear Protection: The thicker viscosity of 85W140 provides improved gear protection, particularly in heavy-duty gear systems such as differentials and transmissions. It can reduce gear wear and prevent damage caused by excessive heat and friction.

Disadvantages:

1. Increased Fluid Resistance: The higher viscosity of 85W140 oil means it will create more resistance to the moving parts, potentially reducing fuel efficiency and overall mechanical efficiency. This increased resistance can lead to slightly reduced power output and increased energy consumption.
2. Cold Weather Performance: The higher “W” rating indicates that 85W140 oil may not flow as easily in cold temperatures compared to 80W90. This can cause difficulties during cold starts, leading to increased wear until the oil reaches operating temperature.
3. Limited Applicability: 85W140 oil is typically recommended for heavy-duty applications and machinery that experience high loads and extreme conditions. Using it in vehicles or equipment designed for lighter loads may result in excessive viscosity, which can hinder proper lubrication and cause additional wear.
4. Cost: Due to its specialized nature and increased performance characteristics, 85W140 oil often comes at a higher price point compared to 80W90. This can impact maintenance costs, especially in situations where the additional benefits of 85W140 may not be fully utilized.

Top 10 popular 85w140 gear oil brands – with specs and features

Here are 10 popular 85w140 gear oil brands, along with their typical specifications and features:

1. Mobil Delvac 85W-140 Gear Oil – API GL-5, MT-1, SAE J2360, and Mack GO-J specifications. Features include high load-carrying capacity, protection against wear, and extended gear and bearing life.
2. Valvoline High Performance 85W-140 Gear Oil – API GL-5, MIL-PRF-2105E, and Mack GO-J specifications. Features include extreme pressure protection, excellent thermal stability, and protection against rust and corrosion.
3. Royal Purple Max Gear 85W-140 – API GL-5 and MT-1 specifications. Features include superior corrosion protection, reduced friction and wear, and compatibility with most limited slip differentials.
4. Amsoil Severe Gear 85W-140 – API GL-5 and MT-1 specifications. Features include extreme pressure protection, resistance to heat and oxidation, and compatibility with most limited slip differentials.
5. Castrol Axle Limited Slip 85W-140 Gear Oil – API GL-5 and limited slip specifications. Features include reduced chatter and wear in limited slip differentials, excellent thermal stability, and protection against rust and corrosion.
6. Shell Spirax S6 AXME 85W-140 – API GL-5, MT-1, and Volvo 97312 specifications. Features include exceptional wear protection, extended drain intervals, and compatibility with most axle and gear designs.
7. Pennzoil 85W-140 Gear Oil – API GL-5 and MT-1 specifications. Features include excellent thermal stability, reduced gear wear and noise, and protection against rust and corrosion.
8. Lucas Oil Heavy Duty 85W-140 Gear Oil – API GL-5 and MT-1 specifications. Features include extreme pressure protection, reduced gear wear and noise, and improved fuel efficiency.
9. Red Line 85W140 Gear Oil – API GL-5, MT-1, and limited slip specifications. Features include superior thermal stability, reduced friction and wear, and compatibility with most limited slip differentials.
10. Chevron Delo Gear ESI 85W-140 – API GL-5, MT-1, and Eaton PS-164 specifications. Features include exceptional thermal stability, reduced gear wear and noise, and compatibility with most axle and gear designs.

Top 10 popular 80w90 gear oil brands – with specs and features

1. Mobil Delvac 80W-90 Gear Oil – API GL-5, MT-1, and Mack GO-J specifications. Features include high load-carrying capacity, protection against wear, and extended gear and bearing life.
2. Valvoline High Performance 80W-90 Gear Oil – API GL-5 and MIL-L-2105D specifications. Features include extreme pressure protection, excellent thermal stability, and protection against rust and corrosion.
3. Royal Purple Max Gear 80W-90 – API GL-5 and MT-1 specifications. Features include superior corrosion protection, reduced friction and wear, and compatibility with most limited slip differentials.
4. Amsoil Synthetic 80W-90 Gear Lube – API GL-5 and MT-1 specifications. Features include extreme pressure protection, resistance to heat and oxidation, and compatibility with most limited slip differentials.
5. Castrol Axle 80W-90 Gear Oil – API GL-5 and limited slip specifications. Features include reduced chatter and wear in limited slip differentials, excellent thermal stability, and protection against rust and corrosion.
6. Shell Spirax S4 AX 80W-90 – API GL-5 and MT-1 specifications. Features include exceptional wear protection, extended drain intervals, and compatibility with most axle and gear designs.
7. Pennzoil 80W-90 Gear Oil – API GL-5 and MT-1 specifications. Features include excellent thermal stability, reduced gear wear and noise, and protection against rust and corrosion.
8. Lucas 80W-90 Gear Oil – API GL-5 and MT-1 specifications. Features include extreme pressure protection, reduced gear wear and noise, and improved fuel efficiency.
9. Red Line 80W-90 Gear Oil – API GL-5 and MT-1 specifications. Features include superior thermal stability, reduced friction and wear, and compatibility with most limited slip differentials.
10. Chevron Delo Gear 80W-90 – API GL-5, MT-1, and Mack GO-H specifications. Features include exceptional thermal stability, reduced gear wear and noise, and compatibility with most axle and gear designs.

Understanding the Numbers and Letters in Lubricant Grading

Lubricants are classified and rated based on their viscosity, which is the measure of a fluid’s resistance to flow. The first number in the lubricant grading, for example, 80W90 refers to the viscosity index, which is a measure of the lubricant’s ability to maintain its viscosity over a wide range of temperatures. The higher the viscosity index, the better the lubricant is at maintaining its viscosity in extreme temperatures.

The second number, 90 in this case, refers to the viscosity grade, which is a measure of the lubricant’s thickness at a specific temperature. A higher viscosity grade means the lubricant is thicker and will provide better protection to the gears.

The letter “W” stands for winter and indicates the lubricant’s performance in cold temperatures. The higher the winter rating, the better the lubricant will perform in cold temperatures.

Note: Read This Article Also – Differences Between 75W85 and 75W90

Is 85w140 Gear Oil Synthetic?

85w140 gear oil is available in both conventional and synthetic formulations. Conventional gear oil is made from crude oil and is refined to meet specific performance requirements. Synthetic gear oil, on the other hand, is made from a chemically engineered base stock and may have additives to improve its performance.

There are advantages to using synthetic gear oil over conventional gear oil, including:

1. Better low-temperature performance: Synthetic gear oil flows better at low temperatures, providing improved cold-weather performance and easier cold starts.
2. Better high-temperature performance: Synthetic gear oil maintains its viscosity and provides better protection at high temperatures, reducing wear and tear on gears and other components.
3. Longer service life: Synthetic gear oil is more resistant to oxidation and breakdown, which can lead to longer service life and less frequent oil changes.

However, synthetic gear oil may be more expensive than conventional gear oil. It is important to use the oil type and viscosity recommended in the vehicle owner’s manual, whether it is conventional or synthetic, to ensure proper performance and protection.

Can you mix 80w90 and 85w140?

It’s generally safe to mix 80W90 and 85W140 gear oils. It’s not like mixing oil and water or anything, so don’t worry too much.

But, keep in mind that it’s not recommended to make this a regular habit. Mixing oils with different viscosities can impact their performance and protection capabilities. It could also potentially affect your vehicle or equipment’s fuel efficiency and cause extra wear and tear on the gears.

So, it’s best to use the specific type and viscosity of gear oil that’s recommended by the manufacturer.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Lubricant

When choosing a lubricant, it’s essential to consider the operating conditions, load and speed, and the manufacturer’s recommended lubricant. For example, if you operate your gears in extreme temperature conditions, it’s important to choose a lubricant with a high viscosity index and winter rating.

If you operate your gears under high load and high-speed conditions, it’s important to choose a lubricant with high shear stability to prevent excessive wear and tear. Finally, it’s always best to consult the manufacturer’s recommendations as they will have tested and validated the best lubricants for your specific gears.

What Happens If You Use The Wrong Gearbox Oil?

Using the wrong gearbox oil in your vehicle can potentially cause a range of problems. Gearbox oil is specifically designed to protect the transmission or gearbox and its components from wear and damage, as well as to provide lubrication and cooling.

If you use an oil that is too thick, it can create excessive drag and increase the load on the engine, which can lead to reduced fuel economy and increased wear on the engine and transmission components. The oil pump may also have difficulty circulating the oil, which can cause inadequate lubrication and increased wear.

If you use an oil that is too thin, it may not provide adequate protection and lubrication, leading to increased wear and possible damage to the transmission or gearbox components.

Using the wrong type of oil, such as using automatic transmission fluid in a manual gearbox, can also cause problems. Automatic transmission fluid may not provide the necessary protection and lubrication, and may lead to increased wear and damage.

In summary, using the wrong gearbox oil can cause reduced performance, increased wear and damage to the transmission or gearbox, and potentially expensive repairs. It is important to use the oil type and viscosity recommended by the vehicle manufacturer to ensure proper performance and protection.

Also Read: Can I Use 10w40 instead of 5w20

FAQ’s

End Talk

So, 85W140 and 80W90 are two commonly used gear lubricants, each with its unique properties and performance characteristics. Take the time to choose the right lubricant and keep your gears running smoothly.