Diesel engine operates on the principle of Diesel cycle. Whereas petrol engine works on the basis of Otto Cycle. The major difference is how they produce energy. There are specific engine oils for each of them. You can face different consequences If you put diesel engine oil in petrol engine.
Fuel type differentiates both of these engines. A diesel fuel is comparatively thicker than gasoline. It has higher energy density. Diesel and petrol engines have different optimal engine temperature ranges. Engine oils designed on the basis of all these factors.
Diesel Engine Oil In Petrol Engine: What Happens
First of all you have to understand the basic differences between diesel and petrol engine oils. The results may be self explanatory.
Sr. No. | Characteristics | Diesel Engine Oil | Petrol Engine Oil |
1 | Optimal Oil Temperature | 200-230F (93-110°C) | 230 to 260F (110-126.6°C) |
2 | Viscosity | High | Low |
3 | Oil Pumpability | At Low Temperature | At High Temperature |
4 | Additives | More (detergents, anti-wear) | Less |
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Effects of Using Diesel Engine Oil in Petrol Engine
If you think about using diesel engine oil in petrol engine, be aware of its consequences given below.
1. Energy Wastage
Diesel engine oil has comparatively high vsicosity. Engine has to work more to pump this thick oil. It needs more fuel to done this job. In results, fuel economy reduced.
2. Heat Transfer
Thick oil transfers heat less as comparaed to thin oil. This retained heat increse its operating temperature. It may lead to chemical disintegration which deposits harmful sludge.
3. Engine Overheating
More working of engine and less heat dissipation outside leads to engine overheating. It may cause head gasket failure or warping and cracking of internal engine components.
4. Diesel Engine Oil In Petrol Engine Leads to Engine Stall
Petrol engine has spark ignition whereas diesel engine has compression ignition. Diesel engine requires greater compression ratio which leads to temperature difference. High temperature causes rapid fuel boiling and stalls engine.
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5. Increased Wear and Tear
Diesel engine oil has higher viscosity. This oil in petrol engine does not circulate efficiently. It causes improper lubrication of engine components wich result in premature wear and tear.
When Should Someone Use Diesel Engine Oil In Petrol Engine?
When your main objective is horsepower and you have heavily modified your petrol engine. It increases stress. The diesel engine oil have high viscosity to withstand this excessive stress. It is beneficial in this scenario.