Zmax

[Speedrat]

Ok maybe I need more sleep but here we go. I am sure you have all seen the infomericals for Zmax. Any one know if that stuff works?http://www.aplustvproducts.com/Automotive/zmax.asp

[SonicYellowWRX]

ok. Here is what I know.

-ZMAX has a lawsuite against them.
-A friend used it and says it works.
-The car can last a lifetime without ever touching any additives.

I wont use the stuff cuz its probably BS and the car has no use for it anyways. RESTORE is a popular product that actually works, but if the car runs better with it then it means you have problems with the engine and its only a temporary solution. MUGEN also released its own oil additive... that I would trust. (for hondas only though) Now if STi released an oil additive, then it'd probably be worth checking out.

[pace]

Marketing spin from their website:

zMax Power System soaks into metals with its micro lubricating molecules for increased horsepower, reduced fuel consumption, and decreased emissions.

As somebody with an engineering degree in metallurgy, this first paragraph alone would steer me away from ever using this product.

-Pace

[djrez4]

Originally posted by pace
Marketing spin from their website:



As somebody with an engineering degree in metallurgy, this first paragraph alone would steer me away from ever using this product.

-Pace

why? please explain

[pace]

They claim that the 'system soaks into metals'. I hope they are trying to communicate that it simply coats engine components and does a good job of moving into the interfaces between distinct components to form a lubricating film. If any of the metallics used in our engines have a surface porosity that will permit molecular inclusion of lubricating fluids, then I would say that the relative merit of engine additives such as this is the least of our concerns.

Next time your oil level is low, just remember that it's because it got 'soaked up' by your [insert metallic component of choice here].

Just my 2c.

-Pace

[GV27]

Yeah, their commercial imples that is "soaks" is at a molecular level - that is, the zmax molecules are smaller than the spaces between the metal molecules. You're right, probably a bunch of bovine doo-doo.

Remember that the big oil companies (and even the smaller niche ones like Redline and Amsoil) invest millions and even billions in R&D. These companies know how to properly lubricate a motor. Thes companies with their infomercials may be on to something, but likely they're selling snake oil!

[ProdriveMS]

Originally posted by pace

Next time your oil level is low, just remember that it's because it got 'soaked up' by your [insert metallic component of choice here].

Just my 2c.

-Pace

Yeah. I think that oil soak is the reason why I have to keep adding a quart of oil a month to my old Chevy pick up. Now if I can just figure out what's causing that dark spot on my driveway.....

Alin

[SACTOWNREXMAN]

I bought it and ran it for the hell of it in the WRX. No change. I would never do it again. But, my reasoning was that if the FAA aproves it, it has to be some good ish, because the are very restrictive on what you can run in an aircraft engine.

Andy

[ProdriveMS]

I believe the FAA approved Linkite(sp?) which Zmax lists as one of their ingredients.

Alin

[SACTOWNREXMAN]

Yes, that is the key ingredient. The Linkyte (?spelling) soaks into the metal!

Andy

[Prince Ali]

They are also under investigation by the FTC. They claim all the Zmax additives are mineral oil mixed with a dye to give it color.

http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2001/02/zmax1.htm

[dark_rex]

Originally posted by ProdriveMS


Yeah. I think that oil soak is the reason why I have to keep adding a quart of oil a month to my old Chevy pick up. Now if I can just figure out what's causing that dark spot on my driveway.....

Alin

LOL