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Anyone use ZMax Treatment?

15615 Views 70 Replies 17 Participants Last post by  550HP STSV
Seems to get an above ordinary push on cable channel Speed. I can find no negative comments nor any real proof-positive comments on the web. So I ask - any one out there use it? OK, and if so, does it do what they say (besides just soak into metal)?
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I remain skeptical but have no data, either way, to endorse or condemn.
SCAM!!!

Zmax is nothing but a colored mineral oil scam and the FTC has know it for Many years!

http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2001/02/zmax1.shtm
BaTu is very misinformed aboutthe zMax product. Cadillac Division issued a PI recommending zMax after conducting a 14 month field test on oil burn and piston noise cars and experienced a 73 % cure rate with zMax.

Go to Bob Is The Oil Guy web site. They have some great info on the zMax posted by one of their founding members named Johnny.
..........remember that the "bobistheoilguy" sites are sponsored by oil additive manufacturers - you have to read everything to get the correct picture........

BaTu is correct - zMax (like several other additive marketers) has been in and out of court with the Federal Trade Commission for unsubstantiated product performance and advertising claims.

Ask your Cadillac Service Writer to look up the TSB on engine oil additives for GM use. If you have an Alldatadiy subscription you can surf all GM TSB's to your hearts' content.

Bottom line: If these products are so good for your engine, oil, metal, mileage, longevity, economy - then why aren't they recommended by at least ONE automotive manufacturer in the world ??? (It's like my year group and the 100mpg carburetor - there ain't no such thing.............) I hate to tell you how much Marvel Mystery Oil I have gone through in 55 years of wrenching - hope springs eternal !!!!
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Re: zMax successfully proved all their performance claims with ASTM/SAE Tests

Year and half later, still a SCAM..... ;)
BaTu...........

Sorry but your posting false information about zMax. zMax did successfully prove each and every one of their performance claims through extensive ASTM/SAE Testing. The BITOG site has members posting the independent test info.

GM Cadillac Northstar Division, did conduct a 14 month, 80 car field performance evaluation with zMax helping the oil burn and piston noise problems very successfully.

GM Cadillac Northstar Division then issued a PI ( Performance Information ) recommending the use of zMax. It's posted on the BITOG site so members, check it out.

Tech savy members will comprehend and appreciate all the field and lab test evaluating the product has done over the last 50 years.

zMax successfully tested and kept every performance claim when challenged once back in 2001 by the FTC.

Their marketing company hired to do their Infomercial had put a percent number next to the fuel mileage claim and that cost the company 1 million for that marketing error. Percent numbers are not allowed because of the variables in driving habits, vehicle types, etc for the average consumer driving a vehicle.

Today, years later ( well beyond a year and a half ) since the case was concluded in 2003, zMax continues to make each and every one of it's performance claims.

You'd be hard pressed to find another product with zMax's extensive lab and field performance testing background.
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A healthy N* doesn't need it. Why bother.
So Ahh,,, racetek27.... How long have you worked for Zmax ;) You on commission??? :D

Is the "27" your age? (just curious)

If the FCC claims were ultimately proved false, as you're claiming, please provide evidence of that to back up your claims... (this is, of course, something not from Zmax themselves or from the "shills" at BITOG. But rather an independent conclusion, preferably from the FCC)

Dose it exist, or is this just more smoke & mirrors? I certainly haven't followed the story since it came out, but then Zmax isn't putting food on my table :p
On the internet you can find hundreds of testimonial letters about UFOs, astrology, alien abductions, and automotive oil additives. The problem is that they're all written by the same people.

In the court case that followed a falling out between the partners of "Slick 50", it came out that the product was ground up scrap plastic and reclaimed crankcase drainings.

STP paid the biggest consumer fraud fine in history after years of bilking the public with the crap they sold.
Here is BOB IS THE OIL GUY link, which states that ZMax is recommended by GM to help alleviate carbon knock and oil consumption.
Here is BOB IS THE OIL GUY link, which states that ZMax is recommended by GM to help alleviate carbon knock and oil consumption.
Unfortunately, Bob (the BITOG quoted above) has lost all his credibility since it has come to light that he is a consultant for, and in the general employ of, the "oil additive industry" :(

He's no source, he's someone else for whom Zmax is putting food on his table ;)

The FCC, on the other hand, isn't currently on Zmax's payroll, They were the one who brought the complaint, I'd like to see Their resolution (and the fact that they might not have further pursued the situation doesn't carry water either. I'm sure they have a "full plate" and have to prioritize their cases)
Why should I need an oil additve if I am using a high quality 100% synthetic oil that is recommended by the engine manufacturer?:hmm:
from Alldata: GM4718M Your vehicle's engine requires a special oil meeting GM Standard GM4718M. Oils meeting this standard may be identified as synthetic. However, not all synthetic oils will meet this GM standard. You should look for and use only an oil that meets GM Standard GM4718M. NOTICE: If you use oils that do not have the GM4718M Standard designation, you can cause engine damage not covered by your warranty.
SAE 5W-30 As shown in the viscosity chart, SAE 5W-30 is best for your vehicle. These numbers on an oil container show its viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 20W-50. Oils meeting these requirements should also have the starburst symbol on the container. This symbol indicates that the oil has been certified by the American Petroleum Institute (API). You should look for this on the oil container, and use only those oils that are identified as meeting GM Standard GM4718M and have the starburst symbol on the front of the oil container. Your vehicle's engine is filled at the factory with a Mobil 1 synthetic oil, which meets all requirements for your vehicle. Substitute Engine Oil: When adding oil to maintain engine oil level, oil meeting GM Standard GM4718M may not be available. You can add substitute oil designated SAE 5W-30 with the starburst symbol at all temperatures. Substitute oil not meeting GM Standard GM4718M should not be used for an oil change.
ENGINE OIL ADDITIVES
Do not add anything to your oil. The recommended oils with the starburst symbol that meet GM Standard GM4718M are all you will need for good performance and engine protection.
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This excerpt is from GM TSB #05-00-89-072B dated June 5,2008 and pertains to GM passenger cars models 2009 and prior. Please note the last paragraph!

WHAT NOT TO DO: Engine and Fuel Additives, Alternate Fuels, and "Miracle" Products

Various unproven products with claims to improve vehicle fuel economy have been reported ranging from magnets that align molecules to chemical combustion improvers.

Most products claiming to provide benefits are based on unsubstantiated claims. Those that do present "scientific" results generally either have too little supporting data to be conclusive, have not conducted experiments in a controlled fashion, or cannot be substantiated by anyone else but the product's manufacturer.

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission summarizes results for products tested by the federal government at www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/autos/aut10.shtm. A review of the list shows that the majority did not work, and for those that showed some effect, the benefit was too small to be cost effective.

Harmful Ideas That May Damage Your Vehicle and Increase Emissions

One more recent poor idea to improve fuel economy that should not be attempted is to blend either kerosene or diesel fuel into gasoline. Why? Both kerosene and diesel fuel are distillate fuels meant for use in compression ignition engines, not spark ignition engines. They have very low octane and since they are heavier (higher density) than gasoline, they will cause heavy engine deposits and degradation of engine oil.

Notice: Never put Kerosene or Diesel Fuel in your Gasoline Engine vehicle. This may result in inconsistent performance and permanent damage to your vehicle that is not covered by your New Vehicle Warranty.

Chemicals that are normally used as solvents also should not be used. These include acetone, ketones, and methanol. These solvents can be incompatible with your vehicles rubber or sealing components, and may dissolve the vehicle's paint finish. In the case of methanol, corrosion of metal parts in the fuel system also may occur.

Notice: Never use acetone, ketones, or methanol additives in your vehicle. Some of these solvents may damage or corrode your fuel system. They are also very damaging to the painted surfaces of the vehicle if spilled. Damage to vehicle components that result from non-approved or aftermarket additives and devices are not covered under the terms of the New Vehicle Warranty. The only fuel additive currently approved by GM is GM Fuel System Treatment Plus, P/N 88861011 (in Canada, # 88861012).

WHAT TO DO: Maximizing Fuel Economy/Minimizing Costs

The best fuel economy possible is the direct result of proper maintenance and good driving habits. Listed below are GM's recommendations to achieve the best mileage possible. The first group are things to consider for your vehicle, while the second are tips relating to your driving habits.

Vehicle Considerations:

^ Tire Pressure - One of the major contributors to poor fuel economy are under inflated tires. Tires low on pressure create drag that the vehicle's powertrain must overcome, wasting dollars in fuel. Always keep your tires inflated to the proper pressure as shown on the vehicle placard. This not only serves to increase gas mileage but cuts down on tire wear, further decreasing your costs per mile.

^ Air Filter - A vehicle that has a dirty air filter can't efficiently draw air into the engine. This restriction forces the engine to expend energy to "breathe" wasting fuel in the process. Change recommendations are found in your vehicle Owner's Manual.

^ Proper Viscosity "Starburst" Rated Oil - Always use the proper viscosity oil in your engine. Oil that has a higher than required viscosity will create more drag on the internal components of the engine, causing more work for it, especially when cold. Each Owner's Manual contains information on the proper type of oil for your vehicle. Look for the "starburst" symbol on the front of the bottle, and the SM rating on the API circle on the back label. If you are in doubt, stop by your dealer for an oil change, and any other services required. Most current GM vehicles are equipped with oil life monitors to further assist on the "when" to change your oil. (Aveo/Wave/Optra/Epica currently do not have oil life monitors).

Notice: GM Vehicles DO NOT require additional engine oil additives. Some additives may cause harmful effects to the internal seals and additionally void the terms of your vehicles New Car Warranty.
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So Ahh,,, racetek27.... How long have you worked for Zmax ;) You on commission??? :D

Is the "27" your age? (just curious)

If the FCC claims were ultimately proved false, as you're claiming, please provide evidence of that to back up your claims... (this is, of course, something not from Zmax themselves or from the "shills" at BITOG. But rather an independent conclusion, preferably from the FCC)

Dose it exist, or is this just more smoke & mirrors? I certainly haven't followed the story since it came out, but then Zmax isn't putting food on my table :p
BaTu,

Lol, since you've asked.... Actually the 27 stands for several things.... that's the number of years that I've rebuilt aircraft engines in my FAA Certified Repair Station using AvBlend/zMax in all my customers engines .... also that's the number of our Dallara- Oldsmobile V8 powered Indy 500 car which we owned and built up our own engines for in the IRL. It's the same car that our driver Jim Guthrie beat Tony Stewart driving the Menard/Glidden car at the Phoenix 200 race in a 25 lap trophy dash finish.

Needless to say that I know my product and how it works in engines... very well ! The question is not how long I've worked for zMax but how many years as an experienced engine builder/technician, that I've used the product extensively and can talk engine theory-application very knowledgeable to anyone on this site...... unlike yourself who is throwing out unsupported and false post's about zMax.

Anyone can log onto the FTC site and look up the case as it's public information. The case lasted 2.5 years, which is not a 50 yard dash and when zMax satisfied the FTC and their expert witnesses, zMax was granted the right to make each and every performance claim ( less a percentage number on it's fuel mileage improvement claim ).

You ask does it exist ??? and you state you haven't followed the story ??? I ask then why are you making negative statements about the case when you haven't followed it, don't have a clue about it or taken the time to look up the information that's all available to read ?

Type in Bob is the Oil Guy zmax cadillac and something should show up to click on directly to. And BuTu, the actual Cadillac PI is shown on the post !!!!!!
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Re: Why zMax is not an Oil Additive

This excerpt is from GM TSB #05-00-89-072B dated June 5,2008 and pertains to GM passenger cars models 2009 and prior. Please note the last paragraph!

WHAT NOT TO DO: Engine and Fuel Additives, Alternate Fuels, and "Miracle" Products

Various unproven products with claims to improve vehicle fuel economy have been reported ranging from magnets that align molecules to chemical combustion improvers.

Most products claiming to provide benefits are based on unsubstantiated claims. Those that do present "scientific" results generally either have too little supporting data to be conclusive, have not conducted experiments in a controlled fashion, or cannot be substantiated by anyone else but the product's manufacturer.

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission summarizes results for products tested by the federal government at www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/autos/aut10.shtm. A review of the list shows that the majority did not work, and for those that showed some effect, the benefit was too small to be cost effective.

Harmful Ideas That May Damage Your Vehicle and Increase Emissions

One more recent poor idea to improve fuel economy that should not be attempted is to blend either kerosene or diesel fuel into gasoline. Why? Both kerosene and diesel fuel are distillate fuels meant for use in compression ignition engines, not spark ignition engines. They have very low octane and since they are heavier (higher density) than gasoline, they will cause heavy engine deposits and degradation of engine oil.

Notice: Never put Kerosene or Diesel Fuel in your Gasoline Engine vehicle. This may result in inconsistent performance and permanent damage to your vehicle that is not covered by your New Vehicle Warranty.

Chemicals that are normally used as solvents also should not be used. These include acetone, ketones, and methanol. These solvents can be incompatible with your vehicles rubber or sealing components, and may dissolve the vehicle's paint finish. In the case of methanol, corrosion of metal parts in the fuel system also may occur.

Notice: Never use acetone, ketones, or methanol additives in your vehicle. Some of these solvents may damage or corrode your fuel system. They are also very damaging to the painted surfaces of the vehicle if spilled. Damage to vehicle components that result from non-approved or aftermarket additives and devices are not covered under the terms of the New Vehicle Warranty. The only fuel additive currently approved by GM is GM Fuel System Treatment Plus, P/N 88861011 (in Canada, # 88861012).

WHAT TO DO: Maximizing Fuel Economy/Minimizing Costs

The best fuel economy possible is the direct result of proper maintenance and good driving habits. Listed below are GM's recommendations to achieve the best mileage possible. The first group are things to consider for your vehicle, while the second are tips relating to your driving habits.

Vehicle Considerations:

^ Tire Pressure - One of the major contributors to poor fuel economy are under inflated tires. Tires low on pressure create drag that the vehicle's powertrain must overcome, wasting dollars in fuel. Always keep your tires inflated to the proper pressure as shown on the vehicle placard. This not only serves to increase gas mileage but cuts down on tire wear, further decreasing your costs per mile.

^ Air Filter - A vehicle that has a dirty air filter can't efficiently draw air into the engine. This restriction forces the engine to expend energy to "breathe" wasting fuel in the process. Change recommendations are found in your vehicle Owner's Manual.

^ Proper Viscosity "Starburst" Rated Oil - Always use the proper viscosity oil in your engine. Oil that has a higher than required viscosity will create more drag on the internal components of the engine, causing more work for it, especially when cold. Each Owner's Manual contains information on the proper type of oil for your vehicle. Look for the "starburst" symbol on the front of the bottle, and the SM rating on the API circle on the back label. If you are in doubt, stop by your dealer for an oil change, and any other services required. Most current GM vehicles are equipped with oil life monitors to further assist on the "when" to change your oil. (Aveo/Wave/Optra/Epica currently do not have oil life monitors).

Notice: GM Vehicles DO NOT require additional engine oil additives. Some additives may cause harmful effects to the internal seals and additionally void the terms of your vehicles New Car Warranty.
Slickcitystan raises a valid point on why not to use "Oil Additives " per GM's position.

For the members knowledge,since zMax is added to the engine oil, a misconception may exist that zMax is an additive for engine oils.

This is incorrect as the SAE J357 OCT99 Information Report Physical and Chemical Properties of Engine Oil's provides this definition. " A LUBRICANT ADDITIVE AGENT IS A MATERIAL DESIGNED TO ENHANCE THE PERFORMANCE PROPERTIES OF THE BASE STOCK OR TO IMPROVE THE BASE STOCK PROPERTIES THAT DO NOT NATURALLY EXIST WITH THE BASE STOCK ".

Clearly, zMax does neither of these who functions, as it is not designed to improve or enhance any qualities of the engine oil. Introducing it into the engine oil is merely the means to transport zMax directly to the engine's metallurgy.

For those members interested, here's the info on the GM PI :

Subject: Knocking Noises Or Excessive Oil Consumption-keywords
carbon cold piston valve zmax # PIP3951- ( 10/19/2006 )
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Needless to say that I know my product and how it works in engines... very well ! The question is not how long I've worked for zMax but how many years as an experienced engine builder/technician
So, you seem to be dodging the question..... You know, the QUESTION - have you ever been employed by, or received money from Zmax :devil:

BaTu,
Anyone can log onto the FTC site and look up the case as it's public information.
Including you? After all it was you who resurrected this old thread to say the FCC claim was wrong....

Find it, post it, and I'll believe it! :cool:
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