What is PC-11 All About?

Proposed Category 11 (PC-11) is a new oil category that established two new diesel engine oil specifications.  PC-11 contains two subcategories – one with backward compatibility for older engine technology (“CK-4”) and one for use with newer engine technology (“FA-4”).  The aim of FA-4 oils is to improve fuel efficiency while reducing harmful emissions.  CK-4 oils were developed for older engines to offer enhancements in oxidation resistance, shear stability and aeration control and will replace the current CJ-4 oils.

Why is the new PC-11 category of oil needed?

Improved engine designs will require commercial vehicle engine oils to perform substantially higher than those of the current CJ-4 oils. With changing emissions and fuel efficiency standards, new industry standards are calling for engine improvements.  These advances include reducing carbon dioxide and greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing fuel efficiency, and maintaining engine durability while improving oxidation resistance.

PC-11 will not affect every business in the same way.  Operators with older equipment may simply switch from their current CJ-4 oils to the enhanced CK-4 oils. In comparison, fleets with a combination of older and newer equipment may choose to stock both CK-4 and FA-4 oils until the older units are cycled out of the fleet. Owner/operators and fleets operating newer equipment with advanced engine technology should follow original equipment manufacturer recommendations, but they also may decide to upgrade to FA-4 oils if they are looking to improve fuel economy.

With the onset of PC-11 oils, operators have another opportunity to increase engine efficiency and keep their fleet of vehicles moving. Both CK-4 and FA-4 oils also provide drivers with greater engine oil options and the potential to gain fuel economy benefits. The reduced engine wear and deposits resulting from the superior protection provided by these oils can help owner/operators reduce unscheduled maintenance and minimize downtime.