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Old 04-19-2014, 02:10 AM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by beamertruck View Post
The full SAPS is for use in older models (such as those requiring bmw LL-01) the mid SAPS meets LL-04. The sulfated ash and phosphorus are for the emissions equipment and high performance applications of these vehicles. Most require the full saps, but mid saps works for high performance, the low saps is for the newer vehicles.
I wouldn't agree with that. These oils apparently aren't certified LL01 and LL04, but let's use those specs as indicators or qualifiers on typical levels of sulfated ash. LL04 calls for lower sulphated ash, and yes, it is for the emissions system. Specifically, the emissions system on the diesel. BMW originally recommended LL04 for all newer models, based on their testing. However, North American fuels differed from European fuels, and they found that the LL04 spec did not stand up when run in gasoline engines in North America. It broke down early. It works well with the diesel, and is in fact required in that application. In 2009 BMW advised against using LL04 oils in those applications, ie newer gasoline engines in North America. See the TSB, it is posted here as well as on many other sites.

So now Amsoil comes out with an oil that they say is blended to the LL04 spec. Actually two oils, low and mid SAPS. Not certified, but similar, apparently. OK, so why would you recommend using an oil blended to a BMW spec that BMW real world testing has shown doesn't work? It isn't about the performance level of the vehicle, it is about the fuel. People who aspire to use European oil blends in North America forget that they aren't running on European fuels. So maybe the whole Amsoil European car oils program should have a disclaimer that says "Only valid for European fuels" or something to that effect. Or maybe it isn't really an LL04 oil, and so it stands up. Or maybe it has some new ingredients that aren't included in the LL04 spec that make it last longer, but it is still an LLO4 spec blend. Who would gamble on that?
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