kubota engines synthetic oil

[xkvator]

anyone using synthetics?
i've been using Mobil 1 - 10w-30 in a bobcat 751 and this last oil change put in Delvac 1 - 5w-40.

changing oil now in a 331D...used Bobcat brand 10w-30 the first couple changes - have the Delvac & also Rotella synthetic(walmart $13/gal).

anyone know which company makes the oil for Bobcat?

[choober]

Synthetic oil is the best way to go. Especially in an air cooled machine.

[John DiMartino]

Whatever synthetic is used,make sure the API label starts with a C for compression ignition engines! Ive seen many ppl think they can use regular Mobil 1 10w30 car oil in there diesels,and you can't.Gasoline oils the label starts with an S for spark ignition.This is VERY important,as you will eventually cause damage to your diesel by running car synthetic oil in it.There is a huge difference in the oils propertys,ability to hold soot,and film strength among other things.
I would use only 5w40 full synthetic in a skid steer,it will pour well at -40 zero,and protect better in 100 degree weather than conventional 15w40 oils.
Also all 5w40's are diesel oils,it is difficult to find diesel rated synthetic oils in any other viscosity.

[k45]

IF oil is changed at proper intervals, is there really and advantage of going to a synthetic oil on a diesel?

Do diesels wear out if properly maintained?

[bgirls]

every piece of equipment i own is filled with synthetic oil or grease including the lawn mower.

[John DiMartino]

IF oil is changed at proper intervals, is there really and advantage of going to a synthetic oil on a diesel?

Do diesels wear out if properly maintained?

The biggest advantage to running it is during cold starts and operation,and at high temps.Cold starting is much faster and easier on the starter motor,esp in winter.Engine life is extended thru getting pressurized oil faster. If your diesel has a turbocharger,which most do anymore,the synthetic offers a huge advantage at hot shutdown time.Coking of the turbo bearings is much less likely since the synthetics do not boil until well over 400 degrees,most offer a 100 degree higher temp than conventional oils.When your turbo is at 600 degrees and you shut it off,synthetic oil will not boil off once oil flow stops like regular will.