The Difference Between Gear Oil and Engine Oil

1. Gearbox oil and engine oil: Comparing viscosity

2. Gearbox oil undergoes a process of boundary lubrication

3. Gearbox oil and engine oil: Additional differences

4. Typical gearbox oil additives

• Anti-wear and extreme pressure agents minimize wear on components in boundary lubrication situations.
• Pour point depressants improve performance at low temperatures.
• Rust and corrosion inhibitors protect internal components.
• Oxidation inhibitors reduce the detrimental effects of heat, extending the oil's lifespan.
• Viscosity index improvers allow the oil to operate within a wider temperature range.

• Antifoam agents prevent foaming and dissipate trapped air.
• Friction modifiers – The level of friction reduction required can vary significantly between different components in a drivetrain system. In some cases, friction modifiers may be necessary to achieve the desired results.

5. Common gear design

6. AMSOIL gearbox oil recommendations