Shell Canada Limited - Understanding CJ-4

Specific changes differ by individual engine manufacturers. However, in general, all 2007 heavy-duty diesel engines will incorporate exhaust after treatments devices which include a Diesel Particulate Filter, and some engines will also include an oxidation catalyst. 2007 diesel engines will require the use of ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) fuel as well.

Depending on the engine manufacturer and vehicle design, some engines will run hotter than current engines. Additionally, some engines will utilize higher levels of EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) or CGI (clean gas induction) to help meet exhaust emission requirements.

2. What happens if I put 2006 oil in a 2007 engine?

If an API CI-4 PLUS oil is used in a 2007 engine, the service interval for the diesel particulate filter (DPF) could be compromised as the higher ash-containing API CI-4 PLUS oil will result in more rapid blocking of the DPF. In addition, the CI-4 PLUS oils may not be able to withstand the more severe environment within the 2007 engines (higher temperatures, more EGR) which may result in premature thickening of the oil, sludge formation and resultant wear and corrosion. API CJ-4 oils are designed to provide improvements in wear protection, high temperature oxidation control and soot handling required by the new engines.

3. Are API CI-4 PLUS and API CJ-4 oils compatible?

Yes. API CI-4 PLUS and API CJ-4 oils are compatible, (i.e., they can be mixed without fear of adverse chemical reactions causing deposits or additive fall out). However, mixing in API CI-4 PLUS oils, (e.g., for top-off) can result in reduction of performance of the oil as API CJ-4 oils offer higher levels of protection than API CI-4 PLUS oils.

4. Can I mix the two oils?

API CJ-4 and API CI-4 PLUS oils are compatible with each other. However, we don’t recommend actively mixing the two products, as there are differences that will be evident in the used oil analysis and potential reduction in levels of protection compared to API CJ-4 oils.

5. Can I top-off API CJ-4 oils with API CI-4 PLUS products?

Yes and No. Typically, topping-off an API CJ-4 product with an API CI-4 PLUS oil is not recommended. There are some exceptions, depending on the model year of the engine. To further explain, if you are using API CJ-4 oil in pre-2007 engines, if necessary, you can top-off with an API CI-4 PLUS oil. API CI-4 PLUS oil meets all the requirements for pre-2007 engines.

In 2007 model year engines, API CJ-4 oils must be used and you cannot top-off with an API CI-4 PLUS oil. However, if the choice is low oil level or using API CI-4 PLUS oil, add the API CI-4 PLUS oil, but change the oil as soon as possible.

6. Will my warranty be affected if I don’t use API CJ-4 oils?

These new oils were designed for use in 2007 on-highway emission controlled engines. Engine oil recommendations and warranty policies vary by manufacturer. Consult your operations and maintenance manuals for guidance for your specific hardware and application.

7. When changing my engine from API CI-4 PLUS oil to API CJ-4 oil, how many flushes do I need to do when changing over?

When changing your oil from API CI-4 PLUS to API CJ-4, it is not necessary to flush your engine. Shell has designed the two oils to be compatible with each other. Additionally, Shell Rotella T API CJ-4 engine oil can be used for top-off in your truck if you are using Shell Rotella T API CI-4 PLUS engine oil.

8. When switching my bulk tank from API CI-4 PLUS oil to API CJ-4 oil, how far down do I have to drain before it can be considered API CJ-4?

When switching from API CI-4 PLUS oil to API CJ-4 oil, we recommend draining your tank to 10%.

9. Are there any special HSSE or used oil disposal procedures needed for the new oils?

The disposal of the new Shell Rotella T oil is the same as the older version. Check with your local authorities on the proper disposal of used engine oil in your area.

10. What will the differences be and the advantage in switching to the new API CJ-4 oil?

In 2007 model year engines, API CJ-4 oil will be required to protect the engine and allow for maximum durability of the exhaust after-treatment system.

In pre-2007 engines, API CJ-4 oil will provide the latest in protection, including improved wear protection, high temperature oxidation control and soot handling which will enhance engine durability and cleanliness of the engine.

11. Will I see any difference in oil consumption in my equipment?

We do not anticipate any difference in oil consumption with Shell Rotella T API CJ-4 engine oil. Shell Rotella T oil uses and has used 100% group II base oil for years. Group II base oils have very good volatility. Our new API CJ-4 Shell Rotella T oil will use 100% group II base oil.

12. Will the customer see any differences when they change to API CJ-4 oils?

If you are conducting used oil analysis, you will see a difference in the concentration of the additive metals.

13. Will it look or smell any different?

Yes. Colour is slightly different and there is a distinct non-offensive odour in the new API CJ-4 oil.

14. When will I be able to buy the new Shell API CJ-4 motor oils?

Shell will begin to market API CJ-4 oils beginning September 1, 2006, in bulk and drums for those customers who have an early need for these products. Full availability will be in time for the official API license date of October 15, 2006.

15. Will mineral oil based and synthetic oils switch at the same time?

Shell will introduce our API CJ-4 mineral oil based formulations in late 2006. Our synthetic products will not be introduced until 2007.

16. Which packages will I be able to buy Shell Rotella API CJ-4 motor oil?