MrBenz: I have absolutely no problem with new technology, new products or high tech. I'd say I'm a new tech/high tech guy.
If you refer to synthetic oils as being "new technology", you are making a small mistake.
Synthetic oils were first developed by Standard Oil in 1928. Olefin polymerization which gives PAO's, and ester based oils (as those seen today) were on the market in the mid-thirties. The current synthetic base-stocks used in todays' "new tech" oils were developed in the early 1950's.
So much for your "new technology" line.
Not for one moment. Synthetic oils are excellent products and will not cause the slightest problem, but I, and all those who have taken their daily bathe in oil for years (except the marketing guys) will confirm what I wrote earlier.
JackD

Who would have guessed 1928, or 1950's ??

To the average consumer, dino oils are perceived for all intent and purpose as old tech, and with synthetics perceived as new or newer technology.

I am aware only that Moble 1 was the first synthetic oil available back in the early 80's, but lately have read claims from Amsoil as having been first with synthetics back in the early 70's available to the consumer.

I like most are at the mercy of the market guru's and want to believe....

There is another way to look at drain intervals...most people posting here are talking about using synthetics to extend time between intervals. However, if for example one changed oil every 3K with dino vs. oil change every 3k with synthetic, would the result under this study be that the synthetic user had a longer lived engine?

This is a no brainer but extending drain intervals as talked so much about is for convenience, more time to play golf, even if they don't change it them selves! I look at it as exteneded service life! And what the hell do they care, their going to be in a new car every couple years anyway! Why should most people care about what ever happens to their former ride after they get rid of it?

I'm almost always the end user of most any meterial product, be it a car, computer, or even the cloths I wear, are all second or third hand. So I personally look at extended service life, vs. convenience! Without it, I'd never have a Benz!

What is your thought? BB

Well-enginered semi-synthetics are great for those that want the high-temperature stability and wide viscosity range of a 100% synthetic, but not the high-cost when doing a short drain interval (< 7,000-miles).

I use Schaffer's 7000 15w-50 semi-synthetic since it has a high TBN and excellent shear qualities due to the moly additives. It also meets Daimler-Chrysler's MB 228.3 and 228.5 specs which is fine for my C36 AMG engine.

Check it out here:

http://www.schaefferoil.com/datapdf/700.pdf

More info can be found on oils here, including the Schaeffer brand:

http://theoildrop.server101.com/cgi/ultimatebb.cgi

:-) neil