SwRI: Sequence L38 (ASTM D 5119) Tests, ASTM D 5119, API CF-4, API CF, API CF-2, API CG-4, APE SH, API SJ, API SL, ILSAC GF-1, ILSAC GF-2, MIL-L-46152E, MIL-L-2104F, MIL-L-2126D, MIL-L-46167B

	Sequence L38 (ASTM D 5119) procedures at SwRI are 40- or 80-hour tests that evaluate bearing corrosion and permanent shear stability.

Sequence L38 (ASTM D 5119) procedures are 40- or 80-hour tests that evaluate bearing corrosion and permanent shear stability.

In addition to measuring viscous shear stability using leaded fuel, the Sequence L38 test evaluates a lubricant's ability to prevent corrosion of:

• Copper bearings

• Lead bearings

• Tin bearings

High-temperature, corrosive service using copper, lead, or tin bearings is simulated.

The specifications for the Sequence L38 test are:
 

Sequence L38 Test Equipment and Procedure

A 42.5-CID (cubic inch displacement) carbureted, single-cylinder, spark-ignition, Coordinated Lubricants Research (CLR) oil test engine, operated with an external oil heater circuit, is used for the Sequence L38 test.

The engine runs 40 hours at 35.5 brake mean effective pressure (BMEP) using a leaded isooctane fuel. The engine is shut down at 10-hour intervals for an oil-level check. Test speed is 3,150 rpm, and the oil temperature is raised to 290 °F (143 °C) using an external oil heater circuit.

Sequence L38 Test Results

At test end:

• The engine is inspected for sludge and varnish deposits.

• The connecting rod bearing weight loss is measured.

• Used lubricant analysis includes:

  • Kinematic viscosity

  • Neutralization number

Sequence L38 Pass/Fail Criteria

Multigrade oils require a 10-hour stripped viscosity. A 40-mg weight loss maximum is allowed, and stripped viscosity must stay in grade.

For more information about the Sequence L38 procedure capabilities at Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) or how you can contract with SwRI, please contact Fred Gerhart at fgerhart@swri.org  or (210) 522-3842.