This test method is used to evaluate an automotive engine oil's control of engine deposits under operating conditions deliberately selected to accelerate deposit formation. This test method was correlated with field service data, determined from side-by-side comparisons of two or more oils in police, taxi fleets, and delivery van services. The same field service oils were then used in developing the operating conditions of this test procedure.

This test method, along with other test methods, defines the minimum performance level of the API Category SL (detailed information about this category is included in Specification D4485). This test method is also incorporated in automobile manufacturers' factory-fill specifications.

The basic engine used in this test method is representative of many that are in modern automobiles. This factor, along with the accelerated operating conditions, should be considered when interpreting test results.

1.1 This test method covers and is commonly referred to as the Sequence VG test, and it has been correlated with vehicles used in stop-and-go service prior to 1996, particularly with regard to sludge and varnish formation. It is one of the test methods required to evaluate oils intended to satisfy the API SL performance category.

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

1.2.1 Exception—Where there is no direct SI equivalent such as screw threads, national pipe threads/diameters, tubing size, or specified single source equipment.

1.3 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. Specific hazard statements are given in 7.7, 7.10.2.2, 8.3.4.2, 8.4.4.3, 9.2.6, 9.3.4.5, 12.1.1.7, 12.2.1.4, and Annex A1.

1.4 A Table of Contents follows: