There are several major causes of automotive lubricant-related seal failures. This test method addresses only those failures caused by excessive elastomer hardening, elongation loss, and volume swell and attempts to determine the likelihood that an oil might cause premature sealing system failures in field use. This test method may be used as a requirement of a performance specification, such as Specification D5760 and J2360.

Another major cause of seal failure is the formation of carbon, varnish, and sludge-like deposits on the seal lip. The deposit-forming characteristics of automotive gear oils are evaluated in Test Method D5704. That procedure is intended in part to evaluate the potential for oils to cause premature seal failure in field service.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the compatibility of automotive gear oils with specific nitrile, polyacrylate, and fluoroelastomer oil seal materials.

1.2 Users of this test method should obtain Test Methods D412, D471, and D2240 and become familiar with their use before proceeding with this test method.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.