RE: API SP/ILSAC GF-6

On May 1st, 2020, the American Petroleum Institute (API) and the International Lubricants Standardization and Approval Committee (ILSAC) launched a new service category and two new standards for passenger car motor oil (PCMO). These specifications are API SP, ILSAC GF-6A, and ILSAC GF-6B.

API’s launch of SP is the next step in defending engines from the low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI), timing chain wear, high temperature deposits, and sludge and varnish formation. The launch of this new category is an expansion of the supplementary category launched on May 1st, 2018, API SN-Plus. With the launch of SP, the list of active API Service Categories for gasoline engines is now API SP, SN, SM, SL, and SJ with SN-Plus as an active supplementary category.

The Resource Conserving claim is still applicable for the ILSAC SAE viscosity grades that also meet the requirements for fuel economy, emission control system protection, and the protection of engines operating on ethanol containing fuels up to E85. API SP supersedes all previous API service categories.

ILSAC’s launch of GF-6 is the newest standard for PCMO that is focused on the same goals as API SP. With the introduction of GF-6 the category is split into two, GF-6A and GF-6B. ILSAC GF-6A is a direct upgrade of GF-5 while GF-6B introduces a new SAE viscosity grade of 0W-16. While GF-6A will use the classic starburst emblem, GF-6B will use the new shield emblem.

With the launch of GF-6A and GF-6B, GF-5 will be made obsolete on May 1st, 2021.

With the launch of these new specifications, D-A has taken the opportunity to refresh the PCMO offering. Unfortunately, the launch of this improved product line has been delayed due to the devastation that COVID-19 has caused on the PCMO market segment. With the nationwide stay-at-home orders in place, the need for oil changes and thus the demand for PCMO has been greatly diminished. D-A now is looking to roll out the improved product line over the course of May and June. This improved product line will introduce the new viscosity grades to expand that are API licensable. Please see below for our complete offering. For a complete list of specifications and applications, please refer to your D-A Sales Representative or the D-A Technical Services Department.

As D-A is migrating all PCMO to this new technology, any existing API and ILSAC private label licenses will need to be re-applied for. This does not affect any dexos1 Gen2 licenses. Directions on how to apply for these new API and ILSAC approvals will be provided upon request. A conference call to assist with this transition can be coordinated through your D-A Sales Representative.

Please click the link below for the list of the improved PennGrade® PCMO portfolio and their new API and ILSAC specifications.

For a complete list of specifications and applications, please refer to your D-A Sales Representative or the D-A Technical Services Department.