Test Method—The data obtained from the use of this test method provide a comparative index of the fuel-saving capabilities of automotive engine oils under repeatable laboratory conditions. A baseline calibration oil (hereafter referred to as BC oil) has been established for this test to provide a standard against which all other oils can be compared. The BC oil is an SAE 5W-30 grade fully formulated lubricant. There is a direct correlation of Test Method D 6837 (Sequence VIB) Fuel Economy Improvement (FEI) by percent with the fuel economy results obtained from vehicles representative of current production running under the current EPA testing cycles. The test procedure was not designed to give a precise estimate of the difference between two test oils without adequate replication. Rather, it was developed to compare a test oil to BC oil. Companion test methods used to evaluate engine oil performance for specification requirements are discussed in the latest revision of Specification D 4485.

Use—The Sequence VIB test method is useful for engine oil fuel economy specification acceptance. It is used in specifications and classifications of engine lubricating oils, such as the following:

5.2.1 Specification D 4485.

5.2.2 API Publication 1509.

5.2.3 SAE Classification J304.

5.2.4 SAE Classification J1423.

1.1 This test method covers an engine test procedure for the measurement of the effects of automotive engine oils on the fuel economy of passenger cars and light-duty 3856 kg (8500 lb) or less gross vehicle weight trucks. The tests are conducted using a specified 4.6-L spark-ignition engine on a dynamometer test stand. It applies to multiviscosity grade oils used in these applications.

1.2 This test method also provides for the running of an abbreviated length test that is referred to as the VIBSJ. The procedure for VIBSJ is identical to the Sequence VIB with the exception of the items specifically listed in . The procedure modifications listed in refer to the corresponding section of the Sequence VIB test method.

1.3 The unit values stated in this test method shall be regarded as the standard. Values given in parentheses are provided for information purposes only. SI units are considered the primary units for this test method. The only exception is where there is no direct SI equivalent such as screw threads, national pipe threads/diameters, tubing size, and so forth.

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.

1.4 This test method is arranged as follows: