The Motor Oil Bible BLOG

I recently wrote about some new motor oil additive technology that was coming down the pike, in the form of a liquid titanium anti-wear package. It looked like a promising new technology. Well, it appears that at least one major manufacturer has taken steps toward incorporating it into their heavy duty motor oils.

ConocoPhillips is now blending their Guardol ECT and Kendall Super-D XA with this new liquid titanium anti-wear additive, which reportedly also provides enhanced oxidation stability and bearing corrosion protection.

Of course, I can’t say with certainty just how much actual benefit such a switch in additive package means to an end user, but, it is interesting just the same. Of course, putting a good anti-wear additive into a mediocre oil doesn’t automatically produce an excellent oil. So, it’s important to evaluate the other performance characteristics of the oils you’re purchasing (even if they do have “TITANIUM” in them).

We’ve all got issues with squeaky doors, handles, etc. around the house and/or garage, and it can be a pain the rear to get rid of those annoying, and unwanted noises every time we open a door.

Well, there are, of course, many products on the market that are designed for this purpose, but there is a “new kid on the block” that aims to solve this problem in a more “green” way than many other products do.

A Little Environmental Diversion

Of course, those of you who know me very well understand that, although I am a big proponent of eating and growing organic and protecting the natural resources that God has given us, I am not a “green freak” who thinks there should government regulations mandating that we all “go green” with every aspect of our lives. 

One thing that I am notoriously bad about is keeping my vehicles stocked with the necessary and appropriate safety and repair materials in case of a mishap or emergency. So, in order to help you NOT be like me, it seems only fitting that I take some time to tell you about some of the items that are on my “must buy” list for stocking my vehicles.

This is going to be a series of articles, each of which will highlight a unique and tremendously useful tool or “gadget” that will improve the safety of your travels. In this first article I’m going to highlight an item that I hope you’ll never need to use, but I also hope you’ll have handy if the need ever arises – it very well could save your life.

A couple of years ago I ran across a unique little valve that makes my oil changes SOOOOO much easier. It’s called a Fumoto Quick Drain Valve, and it replaces your oil pan plug. This valve is designed so that it’s nearly impossible to open unless you INTEND to open it (as at oil change time).

When it comes time for an oil change, rather than unscrewing your oil pan plug (and ending up with oil all over your hands and the plug in your drain pan), you simply open the Fumoto valve, which directs the oil stream right where you want it. Want to be even more precise draining your oil? Get the valve with an additional nipple for attaching a small drain hose.

According to the website:

“Super Chevy” magazine reports on the various forms of motor sports where Chevrolet cars and engines are in competition. Its articles cover new car and truck reports as well as coverage of popular older models. Additionally, its technical stories range from how-to fuel economy tips to all out performance buildups, project cars, new parts and accessories.

There is absolutely no purchase necessary and no credit card info required for the offer. Of course, you are submitting your information, so there is the potential privacy issue, but you’ll have to decide how concerned you are about that.

If it’s still available, the offer can be found here: FREE Super Chevy Magazine Subscription

Purchased a used Hensley Arrow Hitch recently. A total steal – basically paid 1/4 what it would cost new.

Could not be happier with my purchase. The unit is extremely well built. Super solid. Should last for years to come, and that is a real bonus, because I’m hoping to get in alot of trips with our travel trailer before the kids get too old and head off to college, etc.

What makes a Hensley so amazing? Well, everything. You see, I pull a 31 foot travel trailer behind a 1/2 ton Yukon XL, and, before the Hensley it was a “white knuckle” drive anytime we took the trailer somewhere. I had already installed an anti-sway system, but, quite frankly, although it DID help, it was nowhere near enough.