GCC STANDARDIZATION ORGANIZATION (GSO)  
 
 
 ﻣ  ﻧﻬﺎﺋﻲﻣ  
Initial Draft of Standard DS 
 
 
 
 
اﻟﻠ إﻋ  اﻟﻔ رﻗ اﻟ TC07- SC1  
  
 Prepared by GSO Technical Sub Committee No.TC07-SC1  
  
   
GSO/TC07-SC1/FDS/
 1785-2: 2022 
 
 
 
 اﻟ اﻻﺣ  ﻣ  ﺗ ز  – ﻣ  ز: اﻟ اﻟ
اﻷورو  ﻟﻠ  ॺʟ واﻟ اﻟ  
Lubricating Oils for Internal Com bustion Engines – Part 2: ACEA  
European Oil Sequences for Gasol ine Engines and Diesel Engines 
  
  
 
 
ICS: 75.200  
 
 
 ﻣ اﻟ ﺧﻠ ॽʀ ﺗ
 ﻓﺈﻧﻬﺎ ﻟ ʷǼ واﻟ  اﻟ ﻹﺑ ﺗ
 إﻟ اﻟ ʨʳǽ وﻻ واﻟ  ﻟﻠ ﻋ
ﺧﻠ ॽʀ ﻣ.  اﻟﻬ ﻣ اﻋ  Ǽ إﻻ   This document is a draft GSO standard 
c i r c u l a t e d  f o r  c o m m e n t s .  I t  i s ,  therefore, subject to alteration and 
modification and may not be referred to as a GSO standard until approved by 
GSO.  
 
ﺗﻘﺪﻳﻢ  
 ﻟﻠ اﻷﺟﻬ ﻋ  ﻓﻲ ﺗ إﻗﻠ ﻫ اﻟﻌ اﻟ ﻟ اﻟ ﻣ ﻟ اﻟ ﻫ
اﻟ اﻟ  إﻋ اﻟﻬ ﻣﻬﺎم وﻣ اﻟﻌ اﻟ دول ﻓﻲ واﻟ  ﻟﻠ   ﻟ ﺑ
.ﻣ  ﻓ   
 ....رﻗ اﺟ  ﻓﻲ اﻟﻌ اﻟ ﻟ اﻟ ﻣ ﻟ اﻟ ﻟﻬ اﻟﻔ اﻟ ﻗ  .. اﻟ
 ﺑ ﻋﻘ . .../. .../. اﻟ ﻫـ، .... / .... / .... اﻋ م... اﻟﻔ اﻟﻼﺋ  اﻟ       رﻗ 
GSO 1785-2: 2022  اﻟ اﻻﺣ  ﻣ  ﺗ ز  –" ﻣ  ز: اﻟ اﻟ
"اﻷورو  ﻟﻠ  ॼʡ واﻟ اﻟ   ﺗو ʦ إﻋ  ﻋﻠﻰ ﺑ  ﻋ اﻟ اﻟ  اﻟ
 )اﻟ  ﻟ  اﻷورACEA( اﻟ اﻟ اﻻﺣ  ﻣ  ﺑ  Ǽ ﺗﻌ اﻟ  ﺎﻟ
 ﺎﻟ  " اﻟﻠ ﻋ ﺑ ﺿ  اﻟﻔ  اﻟ  اﻟ  اﻟ  ﻟ: رﻗTC 07-SC1 
“  و  ﺧ ﻓﻲ اﻟ  اﻟ اﻟﻌ اﻹﻣﺎرات  . 
    
  
    GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
3 
 Introduction 
ACEA standards recognize that European engines differ from US ( style) engines 
in both their design and operating conditions and that the dema nds on their oils 
are also different. This requires the oils used in European eng ines to be unique 
and consequently the classifica tion system for them also needs to be unique. For 
this reason it is difficult to compare the common API classific ation and ACEA 
standards as the test sequences  for them are quite different 
Some ACEA standards also take into account the effect the oil h as on engine 
emissions and emission control systems. This is very much more important for 
engines that need to meet the m uch tighter Euro emission standa rds now 
applicable in Europe and Australia. 
The new ACEA classifications are representing a higher and more  current 
standard of performance as the  former CCMC categories. 
The European Automobile Manufactur ers Associations (ACEA) is th e Brussels 
–based trade association of the 16 major car, van, truck and bu s producers in 
Europe. The ACEA commercial vehi cle members are DAF Trucks, Dai mler 
Trucks, IVECO, MAN Trucks & Bus Scania, Volkswagen commercial V ehicles 
and Volvo Group. 
 ACEA requires that engine performance testing used to support a  c l a i m  o f  
compliance with these ACEA sequences should be generated accord ing to the 
European Engine Lubricants Quality Management System (EELQMS), but 
ACEA reserves the right to defi ne alternatives in exceptional c ases. 
 
The ACEA oil sequences are underl ying a constant development. R eplacement 
tests and other cha nges required by the Eu ropean automobile man ufacturers are 
integrated and new issues are published on a regular basis. As new editions are 
published older editions have to be withdrawn. Validities of ne w and old editions 
are overlapping for limited periods of time as shown in the fol lowing table and 
the accompanying text below. When  a new ACEA sequence is introd uced, oils 
with claims against the previous  can be marketed only for anoth er two years. 
 
 
    GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
4 
  
 
Sequence issue First allowable use Mandatory for new claims Oils with this claim may 
be marketed until 
2004 1 November 2004 1 November 2005 31 December 2009 
2007 1 February 2007 1 February 2008 23 December 2010 
2008 22 December 2008 22 Dece mber 2009 22 December 2012 
2010 22 December 2010 22 Dece mber 2011 22 December 2014 
2012 14 December 2012 14 Dece mber 2013 1 December 2018 
2016 1 December 2016 1 December 2017 1 May 2023(1) 
1 May 2024(2) 
2021 1 May 2021(1) 1 May 2022(1)   
2022 1 May 2022(2) 1 May 2023(2)   
   
(1) ACEA Oil Sequences for Light-Duty Engines only 
(2) ACEA Oil Sequences for Heavy-Duty Engines only 
 
 
- First allowable use means that c laims cannot be made against th e specification 
before the date   indicated. 
- Mandatory for new claims means that from this date onward all  claims for new oil 
formulations must be made according to the latest ACEA Oil Sequ ences Issue. Up 
to that date new claims can also be made according to the previ ous ACEA Oil 
Sequences Issue. After the date indicated no new claims accordi ng to the previous 
ACEA Sequence can be made. Then all oil formulations must be de veloped 
according to the latest ACEA release.  
- Oils with this claim may be marketed until means that no furt her marketing of oils 
with claims to this issue is allo wed after the date indicated  
 
The marketer of any oil claiming  ACEA performance requirements is responsible for 
all aspects of product liability.  GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
5 
 Lubricating Oils for Internal Co mbustion Engines – Part 2: ACEA  
European Oil Sequences  for Gasoline Engines and Diesel Engines  
 
1. Scope and Field of Application  
This Gulf document is concerned with lubricating oils for inter nal   
combustion engines suitable for Gasoline and Light duty diesel engine, 
Engines with after treatment devices and Heavy-duty diesel engi nes 
excluding marine application according to ACEA performance 
classifications. 
 
2. Complementary References  
2.1 GSO 126 “Methods of Sampling lubricating Oils”. 
2.2 GSO ASTM D5293 "  Standard Test Method fo r Apparent Viscosity 
of Engine Oils and Base Stocks Between –10 °C and – 35 °C Using  
Cold-Cranking Simulator".  
2.3 GSO ASTM D1091 "Standard Test Methods for Phosphorus in Lubrica ting 
Oils and Additives" 
2.4 GSO ASTM D445 "Standard Test Method for Kinematic Viscosity of 
Transparent and Opaque Liquids ( and Calculation of Dynamic Visc osity)"  
2.5 GSO ISO 2909 “Calculation of Viscosity Index from Kinematic Vis cosity”. 
2.6  GSO ISO 3771 “Determination of Base Number-Perchloric Acid 
Potentiometric Titration Method”. 
2.7 GSO ISO 3987 “Petroleum products - Lubricating oils and additiv es - 
Determination of sulfated ash” 
2.8 GSO ISO 6247 “Determination of Foaming Characteristics of Lubri cating 
Oils”. 
2.9  GSO ASTM D4684 “Standard Test Method for Determination of Yiel d 
Stress and Apparent Viscosity of Engine Oils at Low Temperature ” 
2.10 GSO ASTM D5185 “Standard Test Met hod for Determination of Addit ive 
Elements, Wear Metals, and Contaminants in Used Lubricating Oil s and 
Determination of Selected Element s in Base Oils by Inductively Coupled 
Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometry (ICP-AES)” 
2.11 GSO ASTM D5293 “Standard Test for Apparent Viscosity of Engine Oils   
Between -5 and -35°C Using th e Cold-Cranking Simulator” GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
6 
 2.12 GSO 1785-1 “Lubricating Oils for I nternal Combustion Engines- P art 1: 
API Classifications of Lubrica ting Oils for Gasoline and Diesel  Engine”  
2.13 GSO ASTM D874 " Standard  Test Method for Sulfated Ash from 
Lubricating Oils and Additives". 
2.14 GSO ASTM D4951"  Standard Test Method for Determination of  Additive 
Elements in Lubricating Oils by Inductively  Coupled Plasma Atomic 
Emission Spectrometry". 
2.15 ASTM-D6618 "  Standard Test Method for Evaluation of Engine Oils in 
Diesel Four-Stroke Cycle Supercharged 1M-PC  Single Cylinder Oil Test 
Engine". 
2.16 ASTM-D3829 "standard Test Method for Predicting the Borderline 
Pumping Temperature of Engine Oil". 
2.17 GSO ASTM D4171"standard Specification for Fuel System Icing 
Inhibitors". 
2.18 ASTM-D5481"standard Test Method for Measuring Apparent Viscosit y 
at High Temperature and High Shear Rate by Multicell Capillary 
Viscometer". 
2.19 ASTM D4683"  Standard Test Method for Measuring Viscosity of New 
and Used Engine Oils at High Sh ear Rate and High Temperature by  Tapered 
Bearing Simulator Viscometer at 150 °C". 
2.20 ASTM-D6922"standard Test Method for Determinati on of Homogeneit y 
and Miscibility in Automotive Engine Oils". 
2.21 ASTM-D7216 "  standard Test Method for Determining Automotive Engine 
Oil Compatibility with Typical Seal Elastomers". 
2.22 ASTM-D5291Standard Test Methods f or Instrumental Determination of 
Carbon, Hydrogen, and Nitrogen in P etroleum Products and Lubric ants". 
2.23 GSO ASTM D4530 "  Standard Test Method for Determination of Carbon 
Residue (Micro Method)". 
2.24 GSO ASTM D5800 "Standard Test Me thod for Evaporation Loss of 
Lubricating Oils by the Noack Method". 
2.25 ASTM D92 “Standard Test Method for Flash and Fire Points by Cle veland 
Open Cup Tester” 
2.26 GSO ASTM D97 “Standard Test Method for Pour Point of Petroleum 
Products” GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
7 
 3. Definition and Abbreviations  
  
3.1 Mineral Base oil: Petroleum product produced after refining, (s eparating 
fuel distillates) by extracting asphalt, aromatics, resins, uns table materials, 
wax and moisture to impr ove its characteristics. 
Note : Also, it can be separate mineral oil ba se types according to whether they are 
Conventional or hydro-processed. Con ventional base oils are refined using 
traditional methods (applying chemicals)  and tend to leave undesirables behind, 
such as sulfur, oxygen, nitrogen and car bon compounds, and trace metals. These can 
affect the performance of the oil. 
Mineral base oils that have been hydr o-processed have undergone additional, more 
advanced refining processes than their con ventional counterparts. The name "hydro-
processed" is derived from the fact that  refineries use hydrogen reactions (in a 
process known as hydro-cracking) to rem ove impurities. When base oils are 
subjected to even more hydroprocessing, they attain the status of “severe” 
hydroprocessed oils, which means they c ontain minimal amounts of impurities.  
Hydro-isomerized mineral oils reconstruc t cracked waxes into branched paraffin’s. 
This technology is growing globally to  meet global standards for lubricants.   
 
3.2 Base stock: Mineral or synthe tic oil or mixture of both. 
3.3 Additives: Chemical materials des igned to be mixed with base st ocks to 
enhance its perform ance properties. 
3.4 Lubrication: The act of adding lubricating oil to reduce fricti on and wear 
between the moving parts, to cont rol the increase in temperatur e rise 
caused by the friction, to minimize corrosion and to remove res idues 
resulting from internal combustion. 
3.5 ACEA: Is the abbreviation for Asso ciation des Constructers Euro peans de 
Automobiles (European Automobiles manufactures Association). Th is 
committee has developed new classifications for the application  of engine 
oils in gasoline, passenger cars  diesel and heavy – duty diesel  engines. 
3.6 API: Is the abbreviation for  American Petroleum Institute. 
3.7 CCMC : Is the abbreviation for Comité des Constructeurs d’Autom obiles 
du Marche Commun.  GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
8 
 3.8 ACC: Is the abbreviation for  American Chemistry Council. 
3.9 EELQMS:  Is the abbreviation fo r European Engine Lubricant Qual ity 
Management System. 
3.10 CEC: Is the abbreviation for Coordinating European Council 
3.11 TWC: Three-Way Catalyst .  
3.12 EGR: Exhaust Gas recirculation. 
3.13 SCR: Selective Catalytic Reduction. 
3.14 DPF: Diesel Particulate Filter. 
3.15 SAPS: Sulphated Ash, Phosphorus, Sulphur  
3.16 HTHS: High Temperature High Shear Viscosity 
3.17 DI: Direct Injection 
3.18 GPF: Gasoline Particle Filter 
 4. Classification 
         Lubricating oils are classified according to their vis cosity and 
performance as follows: 
4.1     Classification according to viscosity  
 Lubricating oils are classified according to viscosity based o n SAE 
classification (see Table 1). 
 Multigrade oils are the combina tion of winter (W) and summer g rades. 
4.2  Classification according to performance  
Lubricating oils are classified according to performance based on ACEA 
classification (see Tables 2, 3 & 4). 
The ACEA 2022 European Oil Sequences for Service-fill Oils comp rise 
3 sets (classes) of sequences: one for Gasoline and Light Duty Diesel 
engines; one specifically for Gasoline and Light Duty Diesel en gines with 
after treatment devices and one f or Heavy Duty Diesel engines. Within GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
9 
 each of these sets there are categories which reflect different  performance 
requirements: 
-  Three categories (A3/B4, A5/B5 & A7/B7) for gasoline and lig ht duty 
diesel engines;  
-  Five categories (C2, C3, C4, C5 & C6) specifically for engin es with 
after treatment devices;  
-   Four categories (E4, E8, E7 & E11) for heavy duty diesel en gines.  
Typical applications for each se quence are described below for 
guidance only.  
Specific applications of each se quence are the responsibility of 
individual engine manufacturers fo r their own vehicles / engines.  
The sequences define the minimum quality level of a product for  self-
certification to EELQMS and presentation to ACEA members. Performance parameters other than  those covered by the tests sh own or 
more stringent limits may be indicated by individual ACEA membe r 
companies. 
 
4.2.1 Nomenclature & ACEA Process :  
Each set of ACEA Oil Sequences is designated for consumer use b y a 
two-part code comprising a letter to define the class (eg C), a nd a number 
to define the category (eg C2). 
In addition, for industry use, e ach sequence has a two-digit nu mber to 
identify the year of implementati on of that severity level (eg A3/B4-21). 
Classes may be added in future if, for example, natural gas eng ines, H2 
combustion engines or engines wh ich operate with alternative fu els (e-
fuels), prove to require oil char acteristics which cannot readi ly be 
incorporated into existing classes. 
The category indicates oils for different purposes or applicati ons within 
that general class, related to some aspect or aspects of the pe rformance 
level of the oil. Typical applications for each category are de scribed in the 
light-duty and heavy-duty seque nce documents for guidance only.  
Specific applications of each category are the responsibility o f the GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
10 
 individual motor manufacturer for their own vehicles and engine s. Oils 
within a category may also meet the requirements of another cat egory, but 
some engines may only be suited t o oils of one category within a class. 
The year numbers for each ACEA Oil Sequences document are inten ded 
only for industry use and indicate the year of implementation o f that 
severity level for the particular category. A new year number w ill indicate, 
for example, that a new test, parameter or limit has been incor porated in 
the category to meet new / upgraded performance requirements wh ilst 
remaining compatible with existing applications. An update must  always 
satisfy the applications of the previous issue. If this is not the case, then a 
new category is required. 
An administrative issue number is added for industry use where it is 
necessary to update the technical r equirements of a sequence wi thout the 
intention to increase severity (eg when a CEC test engine is up dated to the 
latest version whilst maintaining equivalent severity, or where  a severity 
shift in the test requires modi fication of the specified limits ).  
Where claims are made that oil p erformance meets the requiremen ts of 
the ACEA Oil Sequences (eg product literature, packaging, label s), they 
must specify the ACEA class and category (see nomenclature and ACEA 
process for definitions).  
  
«Consumer Language»: 
 
4.2.1.1 A/B: Gasoline and diesel engine oils – ‘High SAPS’  
 
A3/B3  Category withdrawn with these A CEA Oil Sequences. Allowed unti l 
1 May 2023: Stable, stay-in-grade  engine oil intended for use i n 
passenger car and light-duty gasoline and diesel engines, and/o r for 
extended oil drain intervals where specified by the engine 
manufacturer. 
 
A3/B4  Stable, stay-in-grade engine o il intended for use at extended oil drain 
intervals in passenger car and light-duty gasoline and direct 
injection diesel engines, but also suitable for applications de scribed 
under A3/B3. 
 GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
11 
   A5/B5 Stable, stay-in-grade engine oil intended for use at extended o il 
drain intervals in passenger car and light-duty gasoline and di rect 
injection diesel engines designed for low viscosity engine oils  with 
HTHS viscosity of 2.9 to 3.5 m Pa.s. These engine oils are 
unsuitable for use in certain engines - consult manufacturers’ owner 
manual/handbook in case of doubt. 
 
A7/B7  Stable, stay-in-grade engine oil  intended for use at extended o il 
drain intervals in passenger car and light-duty gasoline and di rect 
injection diesel engines designed for low viscosity engine oils  with 
HTHS viscosity of 2.9 to 3.5 mPaꞏs. Relative to A5/B5, these 
engine oils provide also low-speed pre-ignition and wear protec tion 
for turbocharged gasoline DI e ngines, as well as turbocharger 
compressor deposit (TCCD) protection for modern DI diesel 
engines. These engine oils are uns uitable for use in certain en gines 
– consult manufacturers’ owner manual/handbook in case of doubt . 
 
4.2.1.2 C: Catalyst & GPF/DPF compatible Engine Oils for Gasoli ne & 
Diesel Engines – “Low SAPS”   
 
Note:  These Oils will increase the DPF/GPF and TWC life and 
maintain the Vehicle’s Fuel Economy.  
Warning: Some of these Categorie s may be unsuitable for use in 
certain Engine Types – consu lt the vehicle-OEM’s owner’s 
manual/handbook in case of doubt. 
 
C1   Category is withdrawn with t hese ACEA Oil Sequences. Allowed  until 1 
May 2023:  Stable, stay-in-grade oil intended for use as catalyst 
compatible oil in vehicles with DPF and TWC in high performance  car 
and light van diesel and gasolin e engines requiring low frictio n, low 
viscosity, low SAPS oils with a m inimum HTHS viscosity of 2.9 m Pa.s.  
C2 Stable, stay-in-grade engine o il with mid-SAPS level, for afte rtreatment 
system compatibility. Intended for use at extended oil drain in tervals in 
passenger car and lightduty gasolin e, and DI diesel engines des igned for 
low-viscosity engine oils with a minimum HTHS viscosity of 2.9 mPa⋅s. 
C3 Stable, stay-in-grade engine o il with mid-SAPS level, for afte rtreatment 
system compatibility. Intended for use at extended oil drain in tervals in 
passenger car and lightduty gasolin e, and DI diesel engines des igned for 
engine oils with HTHS visco sity of minimum 3.5 mPa ⋅s. GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
12 
 C4   Stable, stay-in-grade engine oil with low-SAPS level, for af tertreatment 
system compatibility. Intended for use at extended oil drain in tervals in 
passenger car and lightduty gasolin e, and DI diesel engines des igned for 
engine oils with HTHS visco sity of minimum 3.5 mPa ⋅s. 
C5   Stable, stay-in-grade engine oil for improved fuel economy, wit h mid-
SAPS level, for aftertreatment s ystem compatibility. Intended f or use at 
extended oil drain intervals in  passenger car and light-duty ga soline, and 
DI diesel engines designed and OEM approved for engine oils wit h 
HTHS viscosity of minimum 2.6 mPa ⋅s. 
    
C6   Stable, stay-in-grade engine oil for improved fuel ec onomy, with mid-
SAPS level, for aftertreatment s ystem compatibility. Intended f or use at 
extended oil drain intervals in  passenger car and light-duty ga soline, and 
DI diesel engines designed and OEM approved for engine oils wit h 
HTHS viscosity of minimum 2.6 mPa ⋅s. Relative to C5 these engine oils 
also provide low speed pre-ignition and wear protection for tur bocharged 
gasoline DI engines as well as t urbocharger compressor deposit (TCCD) 
protection for modern DI diesel engines. 
 
4.2.1.3 E:  Heavy Duty Diesel Engine Oils  
E4     Stable, stay-in-grade oil providing excellent control of piston  cleanliness, 
wear, soot handling and lubricant stability. It is recommended for highly 
rated diesel engines meeting Euro I, Euro II, Euro III, Euro IV  and Euro 
V emission requirements and runni ng under very severe condition s, e.g. 
significantly extended oil drain intervals according to the man ufacturer’s 
recommendations. It is suitable for engines without particulate  filters, 
and for some EGR engines and so me engines fitted with SCR NOx 
reduction systems. However, recommendations may differ between 
engine manufacturers so Driver Manuals and/or Dealers shall be 
consulted if in doubt.  
 E6   Category is withdrawn with the se ACEA Oil Sequences. Allowed  until 1 
May 2024: Stable, stay-in-grade  oil providing excellent control  of piston 
cleanliness, wear, soot handlin g and lubricant stability. It is  recommended 
for highly rated diesel engines meeting Euro I, Euro II, Euro I II, Euro IV, 
Euro V and Euro VI emission requi rements and runn ing under very  severe GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
13 
 conditions, e.g. significantly ext ended oil drain intervals acc ording to the 
manufacturer’s recommendations. It is suitable for EGR engines,  with or 
without particulate filters, and for engines fitted with SCR NO x reduction 
systems. E6 quality is strongly r ecommended for engines fitted with 
particulate filters and is designed for use in combination with  low sulphur 
diesel fuel. However, recommenda tions may differ between engine  
manufacturers so Driver Manuals and/or Dealers shall be consult ed if in 
doubt. 
 
E8    Stable, stay-in-grade oil pr oviding excellent piston cleanl iness, wear, 
soot handling and lubricant stability. It is recommended for hi ghly-rated 
diesel engines meeting Euro I, E uro II, Euro III, Euro IV, Euro  V and 
Euro VI emission requirements a nd running under very severe 
conditions, eg significantly extende d oil drain intervals accor ding to the 
manufacturer’s recommendations. It is suitable for EGR engines,  with or 
without particulate filters, and for engines fitted with SCR NO x 
reduction systems. E8 quality is strongly recommended for engin es 
fitted with particulate filters a nd is designed for use in comb ination with 
low-sulphur diesel fuel. contro l of However, recommendations ma y 
differ between engine  manufacturers, so driver manuals and/or d ealers 
must be consulted if in doubt. 
  
 
E7    Stable, stay-in-grade oil providi ng effective control with resp ect to piston 
cleanliness and bore polishing . It further provides excellent w ear control, 
soot handling and lubricant stability. It is recommended for hi ghly rated 
diesel engines meeting Euro I, Euro II, Euro III, Euro IV and E uro V 
emission requirements and runn ing under severe conditions, e.g.  extended 
oil drain intervals according to  the manufacturer’s recommendat ions. It is 
suitable for engines without particulate filters, and for most EGR engines 
and most engines fitted with SCR NOx reduction systems. However , 
recommendations may differ between engine manufacturers so Driv er 
Manuals and/or Dealers shall be consulted if in doubt.  
E9   Category is withdrawn with the se ACEA Oil Sequences. Allowed  until 1 
May 2024: Stable, stay-in-grade oil providing effective control  with 
respect to piston cleanliness and bore polishing. It further pr ovides GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
14 
 excellent wear control, soot handling and lubricant stability. It is 
recommended for highly rated diesel engines meeting Euro I, Eur o II, 
Euro III, Euro IV, Euro V and Euro VI emission requirements and  running 
under severe conditions, e.g. exte nded oil drain intervals acco rding to the 
manufacturer’s recommendations. It is suitable for engines with  o r  
without particulate filters, and for most EGR engines and for m ost engines 
fitted with SCR NOx reduction systems. E9 is strongly recommend ed for 
engines fitted with particulate filters and is designed for use  i n  
combination with low sulfur diesel fuel. However, recommendatio ns may 
differ between engine manufactur ers so Drivers Manuals and/or D ealers 
should be consulted if in doubt 
 
E11 Stable, stay-in-grade oil providing effective control with resp ect to piston 
cleanliness and bore polishing. I t further provides excellent w ear control, 
soot handling and lubricant stability. It is recommended for hi ghly rated 
diesel engines meeting Euro I, Euro II, Euro III, Euro IV, Euro  V and Euro 
VI emission requirements and r unning under severe conditions, e g 
extended oil drain intervals a ccording to the manufacturer’s 
recommendations. It is suitable for engines with or without par ticulate 
filters, and for most EGR engine s and for most engines fitted w ith SCR 
NOx reduction systems. E11 is strongly recommended for engines fitted 
with particulate filters and is designed for use in combination  with low-
sulphur diesel fuel. However, recommendations may differ betwee n 
engine manufacturers so driver manuals and/or dealers should be  
consulted if in doubt. 
 
5. Characteristics  
The lubricating oils shall fu lfill the following characteristic s: 
5.1   The base oil to be used with the additives for lubricatin g oil production 
shall be either mineral (paraffi nic) base or synthetic base wit h viscosity 
index more than 90. 
5.2   They shall contain some an ti-oxidation, anti-rust, anti-c orrosion, anti-
wear, anti-foam, detergents/disp ersants and pour point depressa nt 
additives and other additives , etc. to improve the quality and meet 
performance requirements of Tables 2, 3 and 4. GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
15 
 5.3    The add itives (item 5.2), to be used shall be completely soluble in th e base 
oil. They shall neither partly precipitate nor separate if the temperature 
raised to 125 °C. 
5.4    They shall be homogeneously mixed, bright and clear and have acceptable 
odour. 
5.5    The oils shall be s table and compatible. 
5.6  They shall be free from water, sediments, dusts, abrasive matter and 
impurities 
5.7    They shall fulfill the pour  point and flash point requir ements of Table 5. 
5. 8 The following elements shall be tested (calcium, phosphoro us, zinc, 
Magnesium, Molybdenum) as per the GSO ASTM D4951 or GSO ASTM D5185 test method. Which the concentration of the elements can be used 
to verify the addition of all amounts of additives. Moreover, T otal base 
Number as per GSO ASTM D974 and Sulphated Ash as per GSO ASTM D874 shall be teste d and reported. 
 
 
6 Sampling  
 Samples shall be drawn accordi ng to Standard mentioned in item (2.1). 
 
7 Methods of Testing*  
The following tests shall be carried out according to the perfo rmance and 
application requirement and the representative sample taken in accordance with item (6). 
         *Note: The tests shall be carried out according to th e Gulf Standards 
given in item ( 2) or equivalents and according to international test 
methods standards (ISO or ASTM or CEC)  
 
7. 1  Physical & Chemical Tests  
7.1.1  Visual inspection. 7.1.2  Determination of flash  point (according item 2.25).. 
7.1.3  Determination of kinema tic viscosity and dynamic viscosi ty (according 
item 2.4) 
7.1.4   Calculation of viscos ity index (according item 2.5) 
7.1.5  Determination of pour  point (according item 2.26) 
7.1.6  Determination of phosphor us content (according item 2.3)  
7.1.7  Determination of zinc c ontent (according item 5.8) GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
16 
 7.1.8  Determination of calcium  content (according item 5.8) 
7.1.9  Determination of magnesium content (according item 5.8) 
7.1.10  Determination of sulpha ted ash (according item 2.7) 
7.1.11  Determination of nitroge n content (according item 2.22)  
7.1.12 Determination of total base number  and total acid number (according item 
2.6) 
7.1.13 Determination of foaming characteristics of lubricating oils (according 
item 2.8) 
7.1.14   Determination of sta bility and compatibility (accordin g item 2.21) 
7.1.15   Determination of homogenously solubility (according it em 2.20) 
7.1.16   Determination of appare nt viscosity (according item 2. 2) 
7.1.17   Determination of pumping viscosity (according item 2.1 6) 
7.1.18 Determination of conrad son carbon residue (according ite m 2.23) 
7.1.19   Determination of Additive Elements, Wear Metals, and C ontaminants 
in Used Lubricating Oils (according item 2.10)  
7.1.20  Determination of High Temp and High Shear Viscosity at 150°C   
(according item 2.18 or 2.19) 
7.1.21  Determination of Evaporation Loss by the Noack Method ( according 
item 2.24)   
7.2 Engine and Bench Tests 
For the evaluation of lubricating oils used in internal combust ion    
engines, as listed in below Tables. 
                        
8 Packing  Lubricating oils shall be packed in tightly closed and sealed containers 
preventing possibilities of oil leakage or oil contamination wi th any 
impurities; such containers neith er shall affect nor be affecte d by the oil. 
 
9 Labelling  
 The following information sha ll be legibly and indelibly marke d in    
both Arabic and English language s on each container of lubricat ing oils. 
9.1     Net volume, in liters. 9.2     Producer’s name or h is registered trade mark. 
9.3     Name of the country of origin. GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
17 
 9.4  The classification of oils according to SAE viscosity, and  A C E A  
performance (as in item 4)  and its intended use. 
9.5     Date of production and th e batch number or barcode to f ollow  product in 
market. 
9.6     Precaution: “Avoid Environmental Pollution”. 
 9.7     Base Oil origin: virgin  base oil or recycled. 
 GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
18 
 Table (1) 
SAE VISCOSITY GRADES FOR ENGINE OILS  (1) (2) * 
 
SAE 
Viscosity 
Grade  
 
 Low –temperature (oC) 
Cranking 
Viscosity (3), mPa.s 
 Low temperature (oC) 
Pumping  
Viscosity (4), mPa.s 
with no yield stress Low-Shear-Rate
Kinematic 
Viscosity (5) 
(mm2/s) 
at 100 oC  
High-shear-Rate 
 Viscosity (6) mPa.s   
at 150 oC,   
 
Max. Max. Min. Max. Min. 
    0 W** 6200 at -35 60 000 at -40 3.8 - - 
5 W 6600 at -30 60 000 at -35 3.8 - - 
10 W 7000 at -25 60 000 at -30 4.1 - - 
15 W 7000 at -20 60 000 at -25 5.6 - - 
20 W 9500 at -15 60 000 at -20 5.6 - - 
25 W 13000 at -10 60 000 at -15 9.3 - - 
8 - - 4.0 < 6.1 1.7 
12 - - 5.0 < 7.1 2.0 
16 - - 6.1 < 8.2 2.3 
20 - - 6.9 < 9.3 2.6 
30 - - 9.3 < 12.5 2.9 
40 - - 12.5 < 16.3 3.5 (0W-40, 5W-40 and 10W-40 grades) 
40 - - 12.5 < 16.3 3.7(15W-40,20W-40, 25W-40, 
40 mono grades)
50 - - 16.3 < 21.9 3.7 
60 - - 21.9 < 26.1 3.7 
(1)    Notes:   1 mPa.s =1 cP;     1 mm2/s = 1 cSt 
(2)    All values, with the excep tion of the low- temperature c ranking viscosity  are critical 
specification as defined by ASTM D3244  
(3)    ASTM D5293: Cranking viscosity- The non-critical specifi cation protocol in ASTM 
D3244 shall be applied w ith a P value of 0.95.  
(4)    ASTM D4684 : Note   that the presen ce of any yield stre ss detectable by this  method 
constitutes a failure reg ardless of viscosity. 
(5)    ASTM D445. (6)    ASTM D4683, ASTM D4741, A STM D5481 or CEC L-36- 90.  
 
*  This Reprinted from SAE J 300 J an 2015 / SAE International Fu rther use or 
distribution is not permitted  without permission from SAE 
 * * W: Is symbol for winter 
 
 
  GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
19 
 Table (2) 
ACEA Oil Sequence for Gasoline and Light Duty Diesel Engines (A /B Categories) 
This sequence defines the minimum quality level of a product fo r self-certification to EELQMS and for presentation 
to ACEA members.  
Performance parameters other than those covered by the tests sh own or more stringent limits may be indicated by 
individual member companies . 
 
REQUIREMENT TEST METHOD PROPERTIES UNIT LIMITS
A3/B4-21 A5/B5-21 A7/B7-21
1.   LABORATORY TESTS 
1.1 Viscosity grades  
Viscosity class according to 
SAE J300 - latest active issue   No restriction except as defined by HTHS and shear 
stability requirements. 
Manufacturers may indica te specific viscosity 
requirements related to ambient tem perature.
1.2 Shear stability CEC L-14-93 
or ASTM D6278 
or ASTM D7109 100°C viscosity after 30 cycles mm2/s All grades to be 'stay in grade' 
1.3 HTHS viscosity CEC L-36-90 Dynamic viscosity at 150°C 
and shear rate of 106s–1mPa∙s ≥3.5 ≥2.9 and ≤3.5 ≥2.9 and 
≤3.5
CEC L-36-90 Dynamic viscosity at 100°C 
and shear rate of 106s–1mPa∙s -- Report 
1.4 Evaporative loss CEC L-40-93 
(Noack) Max weight loss after 1h at 
250°C% ≤13 
1.5 TBN ASTM D2896   mgKOH/g ≥10.0 ≥8.0 Report
ASTM D4739   mgKOH/ g Report ≥6.0
1.6 Sulphur ASTM D5185 or 
ASTM D4951   % m/m Report 
1.7 Phosphorus ASTM D5185 or 
ASTM D4951   % m/m Report 
1.8* Sulphated ash ASTM D874   % m/ m ≥1.0 and ≤1.6 ≤1.6 ≤1.6
1.9 Chlorine ASTM D6443   ppm Report
1.10 Oil – Elas tomer      
compatibility CEC L-112-16 Max variation of characteristics 
after immersion for 7 days in 
fresh oil without pre ageing:Elastomer RE6 RE7 RE8 RE9 
Tensile stren gth % Re port Re port Re port Re port
Elon gation at ru pture % -70 / +20 -65 / +1 5 -51 / +9 -65 / +19
- Volume variation % -1.5 /+1.8 -1.8 / +7.7 0.0 /+10.7 -1.5 / +13.8
1.11 Foaming 
tendency ASTM D892 
with or without 
Option ATendency - stability ml Sequence I (24° C) 10 – nil 
Sequence II (94° C) 50 – nil 
Sequence III (24°C) 10 –nil
1.12 High temperature 
foamin g tendenc y ASTM D6082 Tendency - stability ml Sequence IV (150°C) 100 – ni l 
Low-temperature 
pumpability CEC L-105-12 MRV mPa∙s According to SAE J300 for fresh oil 
Yield stress (M RV at SAE J300 
temperatures, applicable for the 
fresh oil viscosity  grade)Pa 
1.14 Oil oxidation 
with   biodiesel for 
engine oils operating 
in the presence of 
biodiesel fuel CEC L-109-14 Oil oxidation at 168h (DIN 
51453)A/cm ≤120 ≤100 ≤100 
Oil oxidation at 216h (DIN 
51453 )A/cm Report ≤120 ≤120 
Viscosity increase, relative at 
168h (Delta 
KV100 )% ≤150 ≤60 ≤60 
Viscosity increase, relative at 
216h (Delta 
KV100)% Report ≤150 ≤150 
 
 
 GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
20 
  
Table (2) ……Continue 
 
 
REQUIREMENT TEST METHOD PROPERTIES UNIT LIMITS
A3/B
4-21 A5/B5-21  A7/B7-21  
2.   ENGINE TESTS 
2.1* Gasoline DI 
engine cleanliness 
test CEC L-111-16 
(EP6CDT) Piston cleanliness Merit ≥RL259
Turbo charger deposits **, average 
value of zones C, D, E & FMerit ≥6.0 
2.2* Low 
temperature sludge ASTM D8256 
(Sequence VH, 
Ford) Avera ge engine slud geM e r i t ≥ 7 . 6
Rocke rcover slud geM e r i t ≥ 7 . 7
Average engine varnish Merit ≥8.6
Average piston skirt varnish Merit ≥7.6
Compression ring (hot stuck) none
Oil screen clo gging %r e port
2.3* Valvetrain wear ASTM D8350 
(Sequence IVB, 
Toyota 2NR-FE) Average intake lifter volume loss  
(8position average)mm3 ≤3.3 ≤3.3 ≤2.7 
End of test iron ppm ≤400 ≤400 ≤400
2.4* Black sludge CEC L-107-19 
(M271 EVO)Engine sludge, avera ge Merit ≥ 8.3 
2.5  Fuel economy CEC L-54-96 
(M111 ) Fuel economy improvement % ----- ≥2.5 ≥2.5 
2.6* DI diesel oil 
dispersion at medium 
temperature CEC L-106-14 
(DV6C) Absolute viscosity increase at 
100°C an d5.5 % Sootmm2/s ≤0.9 x RL248 
Piston cleanliness ** Merit ≥2.5
2.7* DI diesel piston 
cleanliness & ring 
sticking CEC L-117-20 
(VW TDI) Piston cleanliness Merit ≥RL276 - 5
Cylinde r-spreading limit** Merit ≤13
No ring sticking, max for any ring** ASF 0
2.8 Turbocharger 
compressor deposit 
(diesel) CEC L-114-19 
(Toyoya 1KD-FTV) Turbocha rger rating Merit ----- ≥25 
2.9 Low-speed pre- 
ignition GDI turbo ASTM D8291 
(Sequence IX, Ford) 
Pre-ignition events Average 
number of 
events for 4 
iterations----- ≤5 
Number of 
events 
periteration----- ≤8 
2.10 Chain wear GDI ASTM D8279 
(Sequence X, Ford) Elongation of timing chain % ----- ≤0.085 
*/**: Footnotes see last page 
  GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
21 
  
Table (2) ……Continue 
These specifications under 2016 v ersion are withdrawn with thes e ACEA Oil Sequences. However, they are allowed and can 
be claimed until 1 May 2023: 
 
REQUIREMENT  TEST 
METHOD  PROPERTIES  UNIT  LIMITS  
A3 / B3-16 A3 / B4-16 A5 / B5-16 
1. LABORATORY TESTS  
1.1 Viscosity grades   Viscosity Class according
to SAE J300- Latest 
active issue  No restriction except as defined by shear stability and HT/HS 
requirements. Manufacturers may  indicate specific viscosity 
requirements related to ambient tem perature. 
1.2 * Shear stability  CEC L -014-93 or 
ASTM D6278 or  
ASTM D7109 Kinematic Viscosity at 
100°C after 30 cycles  mm2/s All grades to be “stay in grade”  
 
1.3.1 HTHS 
Viscosity CEC L-036-90 
 Dynamic Viscosity at 
150 °C and Shear Rate 
of 106 s-1  mPa.s 
 ≥ 3.5 
 ≥ 2.9 & ≤ 3.5 
 
1.3.2 HTHS Viscosity at 100°C  CEC L-036-90 
 Dynamic Viscosity at 
100 °C and Shear Rate 
of 10
6s-1mPa.s 
 -- Report 
1.4 Evaporative loss  CEC L-040-93 
(Noack) Max. weight loss  
after 1 h at 250°C  % ≤ 13 
1.5 TBN  ASTM D 2896  mgKOH/g ≥ 8.0  ≥ 10.0  ≥ 8.0 
1.6 * Sul phur  ASTM D5185 % m/ m Report  
1.7 * Phos phor  ASTM D5185  % m/ m Report  
1.8* Sulphated ash  ASTM D874  % m/m  ≥ 0,9 and ≤ 1.5 ≥ 1, 0 and ≤ 1.6 ≤ 1.6 
1.9 Chlorine  ASTM D6443  ppm m/m Report  
1.10 * Oil - elastomer 
compatibility  
 
 
 CEC L-112-16 
 Max. variation of 
characteristics after 
immersion for 7 days 
in fresh oil without 
pre-ageing: 
- Tensile Strength  
- Elongation at Rupture 
- Volume Variation   
Elastomer
 
 
Points 
% 
% 
%   
RE6 
  
 
Report 
-70/+20  
-5.5/+2.1  RE7 
 
 
 
Report 
-65/+15  
-1.8/+8.9  RE8 
 
 
 
Report  
-51/+9  
0.0/+12.0  RE9 
 
 
 
Report  
-65/+19  
2.5/+16.0 
1.11 Foaming 
tendency  ASTM D892 
without option A Tendency - stability  ml  Sequence I (24oC) 10 - nil 
Sequence II (94oC) 50 - nil  
Sequence III (24oC) 10 - nil 
1.12 High  
High temperature 
foaming tendency  ASTM D6082 
High temperature 
foam test Tendency - stability  ml  
  Sequence IV (150 °C) 100 – nil 
 
1.13 Low 
Temperature 
Pumpability  CEC L-105-12 MRV Yield stress 
(MRV at SAE J300 
Temperatures, applicable 
for the Fresh Oil 
Viscosity Grade)mPa.s  
 
Pa  According to SAE J300 for Fresh Oil 
1.14 * Oxidation 
with biodiesel  CEC L-109-16 
 Oil Oxidation at 168h 
(DIN 51453) 
Oil Oxidation at 216h 
(EOT) (DIN 51453) 
Viscosity Increase, 
relative at 168h (Delta 
KV100) Viscosity Increase, 
relative at 216h (Delta 
KV100 at EOT 216h) A/cm 
 
A/cm 
 
% 
 
% ≤ 120  
 
Report  
 ≤150  
 
Report  ≤ 120  
 
Report  
 ≤150  
 
Report ≤ 100  
 
≤ 120  
 ≤ 60 
 
≤ 150   
 
 GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
22 
 Table (2) ………Continue 
This sequence defines the mini mum quality level  of a product fo r self-certification to EELQMS and for 
presentation to ACEA members. Performance parameters  other than those cove red by the tests sh own or more stringent limits may be indicated 
by individual member companies. These specifications under 2016 ve rsion are withdrawn with thes e ACEA Oil Sequenc es. However, they 
are allowed a nd can be claime d until 1 May 2023: 
 
REQUIREMENT  TEST 
METHOD  PROPERTIES  UNIT  LIMITS  
A3 / B3-16  A3 / B4-16 A5 / B5-16 
2. ENGINE TESTS   
2.1  Gasoline DI 
Engine Cleanliness CEC L-111-16  
(EP6CDT)  Piston Cleanliness  
Turbo Charger Deposits **,  
Average value of zones C, D, E & F Merit  
Merit  ≥ RL259 
  
≥ 6.0
2.2 * Low 
temperature  
sludge  ASTM D6593-
00 
(Sequence VG)  Under protocol 
& requirements 
for API  Average engine sludge  
Rocker cover sludge  
Average Piston skirt varnish  Average engine varnish  
Comp. ring (hot stuck)  
Oil screen clogging  merit 
merit 
merit merit 
 
% ≥ 7.8 
≥ 8.0 
≥ 7.5 ≥ 8.9 
none 
≤ 20 
2.3 Valve train scuffing wear  
2.4 * Black  
sludge  Daimler M271  
 Engine sludge, average  merit ≥ RL 140 + 4σ 
2.5 * Fuel 
Economy  CEC L-054-96 
(M111) Fuel economy improvement   
 % -- -- ≥ 2.5 
2.6 DI Diesel Oil 
Dispersion at 
Medium 
Temperature  CEC L-106-16  
(DV6C)  Absolute viscosity increases at 100°C and 
5.5 % Soot  
Piston Cleanliness **  
 mm²/s 
  
merit  ≤ 0.9 x RL248  
 
≥ 2,5  
2.7 Diesel Engine 
Wear  
  CEC L–099-08  
(OM646LA)  Cam wear outlet (avg. max. wear 8 cams)  
Cam wear inlet (avg. max. wear 8 cams) ** 
Cylinder wear (avg . 4 cylinders) **  
Bore polishing (13 mm) **  
(max. value of 4 cylinders)  
Tappet wear inlet **  
(avg. max. wear 8 cams)  
Tappet wear outlet ** (avg. max. wear 8 
cams)  
Piston cleanliness (avg. 4 pistons) **  
Engine slud ge avera ge ** μm 
μm 
μm 
% 
 
μm 
 
μm 
 
 Merit  
Merit ≤ 140  
≤ 110  
≤ 5.0  
≤ 3.5  
 
Report  
 
Report  
  
 Report  
Report  ≤ 120  
≤ 100  
≤ 5.0  
≤ 3.0  
 
Report  
 
Report  
 
≥ 12 
≥ 8.8
2.8 * DI Diesel 
Piston Cleanliness 
& Ring Sticking  
 CEC L-078-99 
(VW TDI)  
 Piston Cleanliness  
Ring sticking (Rings 1 & 2)  
Average of all 8 rings  
Max. for any 1st ring  
Max. for any 2nd ring  
EOT TBN (ISO 3771) **  
EOT TAN (ASTM D664) **   Merit  
 
ASF  
ASF  
ASF 
mgKOH/g 
mgKOH/g 
s≥ RL206  
minus  
4 points  
≤  1.2  
≤  2.5  
0.0  
≥ 4.0  
Report  ≥ RL206 
 
 
≤  1.0  
≤  1.0  
0.0  
≥ 6.0  
Report≥ RL206 ≤ 100  
 
 
≤  1.0  
≤  1.0  
0.0  
≥ 4.0  
Report
2.9 Effects of Biodiesel CEC L-104-16 
(OM646LA 
Bio
) Piston cleanliness 
Ring sticking** 
Sludge **Merit 
ASF 
Merit ≥ RL255+2 
Report 
Report
 
*/**: Footnote information see last page of the C-Categories.  GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
23 
 Table (3) 
ACEA Oil Sequence for Gasoline and Light Duty Diesel Engines wi th After Treatment devices  
(C- Category) 
This sequence defines the mini mum quality level  of a product fo r self-certification to EELQMS and for 
presentation to ACEA members. Individual member companies may i ndicate performance parameters  other than those cov ered by the tests 
shown or more stringent limits. 
 
REQUIREMT TEST METHOD P ROPERTIES UNIT LIMITS 
C2-21 C3-21 C4-21  C5-21 C6-21
1.   LABORATORY TESTS 
1.1 Viscosity 
grades   Viscosity class according to 
SAE J300 - Latest active 
issue   No restriction except as defined by HTHS and shear 
stability requirements. Manufac turers may indicate specific 
viscosit y requirements related to ambient tem perature.
1.2* Shear 
stability CEC L-14-93 
or ASTM D6278 
or ASTM D7109 100°C viscosity after 30 
cycles mm2/s All grades to be 'stay in grade' 
1.3. HTHS 
viscosity CEC L-36-90 Dynamic viscosity at 150°C 
and shear rate of 106s–1mPa∙s ≥2.9 ≥3.5 ≥2.6 and <2.9 
CEC L-36-90 Dynamic viscosity at 100°C 
and shear rate of 106s–1mPa∙s Report 
1.4 Evaporative 
loss CEC L-40-93 
(Noack ) Max weight loss after 1h at 
250°C% ≤13 ≤11 ≤13 
1.5 TBN ASTM D2896   mgKOH/g ----- ≥6.0 Report
ASTM D4739   mgKOH/g ----- Report ≥4.0
1.6* Sulphur ASTM D5185 or
ASTM D4951   % m/m ≤0.3 ≤0.2 ≤0.3 
1.7* Phosphorus ASTM D5185 or
ASTM D4951   % m/m ≥0.07 / ≤0.09 ≤0.09 ≥0.07 / ≤0.09 
1.8*Sul phated ash ASTM D874   % m/ m ≤0.8 ≤0.5 ≤0.8
1.9 Chlorine ASTM D6443   ppm Report 
1.10 Oil – 
Elastomer 
compatibility   Max variation of 
characteristics after 
immersion for 7 days in fresh 
oil without pre-ageing:Elastomer RE6 RE7 RE8 RE9 
- Tensile stren gth % Re port Re port Re port Re port
- Elongation at rupture % -70 / +2 0 -65 / +15 -51 / +9 -65 / +19
- Volume variation % -1.5 / +1.8 -1.8 / +7.7 0.0 / +10.7 -1.5 / +13 .8
1.11 Foaming 
tendency ASTM D892 
with or without 
Option A Tendency - stability ml Sequence I (24°C) 10 –nil
Sequence II (94°C ) 50 –nil
Sequence III (24°C ) 10 –nil
1.12 High-
temperature 
foaming tendency  ASTM D6082 Tendency - stability ml Sequence IV (150°C) 100 – ni l 
1.13 Low-
temperature 
pumpability CEC L-105-12 MRV mPa∙s
According to SAE J300 for fresh oil Yield stress 
(MRV at SAE J300 
temperatures, applicable for 
the fresh oil viscosit y grade)Pa 
1.14 Oil oxidation 
with biodiesel for 
engine oils 
operating in the 
presence of 
biodiesel fuel CEC L-109-14 Oil oxidation at 168h  
(DIN 51453 )A/cm ≤100 ≤100 ≤100 ≤100 ≤100 
Oil oxidation at 216h  
(DIN 51453)A/cm ≤120 ≤120 ≤120 ≤120 ≤120 
Viscosity increase, relative at 
168h 
(Delta KV100 )% ≤60 ≤60 ≤60 ≤60 ≤60 
Viscosity increase, relative at 
216h (Delta KV100)% ≤150 ≤150 ≤150 ≤150 ≤150 
 GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
24 
  
 
Table (3) …… Continue . 
 
 
 
 
*/**: Footnotes referring to the following requirements in the A-/B- and C-classes: 
Footnotes 
No 1.6, 1.7, 1.8 Maximum limits, values take into account metho d and production tolerances 
No 2.1, 2.6, 2.7 ** Parameter is  not an official  CEC parameter REQUIREMENT TEST 
METHOD PROPERTIES UNIT LIMITS 
C2-21 C3-21 C4-21  C5-21 C6-21
2.   ENGINE TESTS 
2.1* Gasoline DI 
engine cleanliness CEC L-111-16 
(EP6CDT) Piston cleanliness Merit ≥RL259 
Turbo charger deposits 
**, average value of 
zones C, D, E & FMerit ≥6.0 
2.2* Low 
temperature sludge ASTM D8256 
(Sequence VH) Avera ge engine slud geM e r i t ≥ 7 . 6  
Rocker cover slud geM e r i t ≥ 7 . 7  
Avera ge engine varnish Merit ≥8.6 
Average piston skirt 
varnishMerit ≥7.6 
Compression ring  
(hot stuck)None 
Oil screen clo gging %R e port 
2.3* Valvetrain wear ASTM D8350 
(Sequence IVB, 
Toyota 2NR-FE) Average intake lifter 
volume loss  
(8 position avera ge)mm3 ≤3.3 ≤2.7 
End of test iron ppm ≤400 ≤400
2.4* Black sludge CEC L-107-19 
(M271 EVO ) Engine sludge, avera ge Merit ≥ 8.3 
2.5  Fuel economy CEC L-54-96 
(M111) Fuel economy 
improvement% ≥2.5 ≥1.0 (for xW-30 only, no 
limit fo r xW-40) ≥3.0 ----- 
JASO FE M366 
(Toyota 2ZR-FXE)  Fuel economy 
improvement% ----- ≥0.0 
2.6* DI diesel oil 
dispersion at 
medium 
temperature CEC L-106-14 
(DV6C) Absolute viscosity 
increases at 100°C and 
5.5% Sootmm2/s ≤0.9 x RL248 
Piston cleanliness ** Merit ≥2.5 
2.7* DI diesel piston 
cleanliness & ring 
sticking CEC L-
117-20 (VW 
TDI) Piston cleanliness Merit ≥RL276 - 5 
Cylinder-spreading 
limit**Merit ≤13 
No ring sticking, max 
for an y ring**ASF 0 
2.8 Turbocharger 
compressor deposit 
(diesel) CEC L-114-19 
(Toyota 1KD-
FTV) Turbocharger rating Merit ----- ≥25 
2.9 Low-speed pre-
ignition GDI turbo ASTM D8291 
(Sequence IX, 
Ford) 
Pre-ignition events Average 
number 
of events 
for 4 
iterations----- ≤5 
Number 
of events
per 
iteration----- ≤8 
2.10 Chain wear 
GDI ASTM D8279 
(Sequence X, 
Ford) Elongation of timing 
chain % ----- ≤0.085 GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
25 
 No 2.1 The CEC L-111-16 (EP6) lifetime is limited. If the test becomes unavailable during the lifetime of these ACEA Oil 
Sequences, ACEA intends to intro duce a successor test on PSA ha rdware at a similar severity level. 
No 2.2 Alternatively, Sequence VG (ASTM D6593) results meeting ACEA 2016 requirements can be used in place of Sequence 
VH for all categories. The Sequence VG limits for ACEA 2016 are : Average engine sludge, merits : ≥7.8; Average rocker cover 
sludge, merits: ≥8.0; Average en gine varnish, merits: ≥8.9; Ave rage piston skirt varnish, merits: ≥7.5; Hot-stuck compression 
rings: None; Oil screen clogging, % area: ≤ 20. 
No 2.3 Alternatively, Sequence IVA (ASTM D6891) data can be use d for A3/B4, A5/B5, C2, C3, C4 and C5 categories at the 
following limit: Cam wear average: max 90 microns. 
No 2.4 Alternatively to the CEC L-107-19, results of the Daimle r M271 sludge test as described by Daimler AG can be used 
for A3/B4, A5/B5 and C2, C3, C4, C5. For this test, reference o il changed from RL140 to RL261. Results relative to RL140 
or RL261 can be used to demonstr ate ACEA performance. The appli cable limit with RL261 is ≥ RL261 + 1σ.  The applicable 
limit with RL140 is ≥ RL140 + 4σ. Test results obtained by the Daimler M271 test procedure will be accepted only under the 
condition that they come from te st rigs being referenced and qu ality controlled by Daimler AG. 
No 2.6 The CEC L-106-16 (DV6C) lifetime is limited. If the test  becomes unavailable during the lifetime of these ACEA Oil 
Sequences, ACEA intends to intro duce a successor test on PSA ha rdware at a similar severity level. 
No 2.7 Alternatively, CEC L-78-99  (TDI2) results can be used as  specified in the table below: 
 
CEC L-78-99 limits a pplicable for: A3/B4 A5/B5, A7/B7 C2 C3, C4, C5, C6
Piston cleanliness Merit ≥ RL206 ≥ RL206 ≥ RL206 ≥ RL206
Ring sticking (Rings 1 & 2) 
Average of all 8 rings 
Max for any 1st ring Max for 
any 2nd rin g ASF ASF ASF ≤ 1.0 
≤ 1.0 
0.0 ≤ 1.0 
≤ 1.0 
0.0 ≤ 1.2 
≤ 2.5 
0.0 ≤ 1.0 
≤ 1.0 
0.0 
EoT TBN (ISO 3771 ) ** m gKOH/ g ≥ 6.0 ≥ 4.0 Re port Re port
EoT TAN (ASTM D664)  ** mgKOH/g Report R eport Report Report
 
  GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
26 
 Table (3) …… Continue.  
These specifications under 2016 ve rsion are withdrawn with thes e ACEA Oil Sequences. However, 
they are allowed and can be claimed  until 1 May 2023: 
 
REQUIREMENT  TEST 
METHOD  PROPERTIES  UNIT   LIMITS 
C1- 16 C2- 16  C3- 16 C4- 16 C5- 16
1. LABORATORY TESTS  
1.1 Viscosity 
grades   Viscosity Class according to  
SAE J300 -  Latest active 
issue   No restriction except as defined by HTHS and Shear 
Stability requirements. Ma nufacturers may indicate 
specific Viscosity requirements related to ambient 
temperature.  
1.2 * Shear stability  CEC L-014-93  
or ASTM 
D6278  
or ASTM 
D7109  Kinematic Viscosity at 100 °C 
after 30 cycles  mm²/s  All grades to be stay in grade 
 
1.3.1 HTHS 
Viscosity  CEC L-036-90  Dynamic Viscosity at 150 °C 
and Shear Rate of 106 s-1  mPa.s  ≥ 2.9  ≥ 3.5 ≥ 2.6 & 
< 2.9  
1.3.2 * HTHS 
Viscosity at 100 °C  CEC L-036-90 Dynamic Viscosity at 100 °C 
and Shear Rate of 106 s-1 mPa.s Report Report Report 
1.4 Evaporative 
loss  CEC L-040-93 
(Noack) Max. weight loss  
after 1 h at 250°C %                                     ≤ 13 
 ≤ 11 ≤ 13  
1.5 TBN  ASTM D 2896  
 mg KOH/g --- ≥ 6.0  ≥ 6.0  ≥ 6.0  
1.6 * Sulphur  ASTM D5185  % m/ m ≤ 0.2 ≤ 0.3 ≤ 0.2 ≤ 0.3
1.7 * Phosphor  ASTM D5185   % m/m  
≤ 0.05≥ 0.07 
≤ 0.09 ≥ 0.07 
≤0.09  
≤ 0.090≥ 0.07 
≤0.09
1.8 * Sulphated 
ash  ASTM D874   % m/m  ≤ 0.5 ≤ 0.8 ≤ 0.5 ≤ 0.8 
1.9 Chlorine  ASTM D6443   ppm m/m Re port 
1.10 * Oil 
elastomer  
compatibility  
 
 CEC L-112-16  
 
 
 
 
 
 Max. variation of characteristics 
after immersion for 7 days in 
fresh oil without pre-ageing  
- Tensile strength  
- Elongation at rupture  
- Volume variation  Elastomer 
 
 
% 
% 
% RE6 
 
 
Report 
-70/+20 
-5.5/ +2.1 
 RE7 
 
 
Report 
-65/+15 
-1.8/ 
+8.9 RE8 
 RE9 
 
Report 
-51/+9 
0.0/ +12 Report 
-
65/+119 
-2.5/ +16. 0
1.11 Foaming 
Tendency  
 ASTM D892  
without option 
A  
 Tendency - stability  ml  Sequence I (24oC) 10 - nil 
Sequence II (94oC) 50 - nil  
Sequence III (24oC) 10 - nil  
1.12 High Temperature 
Foaming Tendency  ASTM D6082  
High 
Temperature Foam Test  Tendency - stability  ml  Sequence IV (150
oC) 100 – nil 
 
1.13 Low-Temperature 
Pumpability 
 CEC L -105-12  MRV Yield stress  
(MRV at SAE J300 
Temperatures, applicable for 
the Fresh Oil Viscosit
y Grade )  mPa.s 
Pa 
 According to SAE J 300 for Fresh Oil  
 
 
1.14  Oil Oxidation    with 
Biodiesel  
for Engine Oils 
operating in the 
presence of Biodiesel Fuel  CEC L-109-16  Oil Ox idation at 168 h  
(DIN 51453)  
Oil Oxidation at  216 h (EOT)  
(DIN 51453)  
Viscosity Increase, relative at 
168 h (Delta KV100)  Viscosity Increase, relative at 
216 h (Delta KV100 at EOT 
216 h)  A/cm  
 
A/cm 
  
%  
 
%  
 ≤ 100 
 
≤ 120 
 
≤ 60 
 
≤ 150 ≤ 100 
 
≤ 120 
 
≤ 60 
 
≤ 150 ≤ 100 
 
≤ 120 
 
≤ 60 
 
≤ 150 ≤ 100 
 
≤ 120 
 
≤ 60 
 
≤ 150 ≤ 100 
 
≤ 120 
 
≤ 60 
 
≤ 150 GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
27 
  
Table (3)  …… Continue. 
This sequence defines the minimum quality level of a product fo r self-certification to EELQMS and for pres entation to ACEA 
members.  
Individual member companies may indicate performance parameters  other than those covered by the tests shown or more 
stringent limits. 
 
These specifications under 2016 ve rsion are withdrawn with thes e ACEA Oil Sequences . However, they are 
allowed and can be claimed until 1 May 2023: 
 
REQUIREMENT  TEST METHOD  PROPERTIES  UNIT  LIMITS  
C1-16  C2-16  C3
-16C4-16  C5-16  
2. ENGINE TESTS   
2.1 Gasoline DI 
Engine Cleanliness  CEC L-111-16  
(EP6CDT)  Piston Cleanliness  
Turbo Charger Deposits **, average value 
of zones C, D, E & F Merit  
Merit  ≥ RL 259 
≥ 6.0
2.2 *  
Low temperature  
sludge  ASTM D6593-00 
(Sequence VG) 
Under protocol & 
requirements 
for API Average engine sludge  
Rocker cover sludge  
Average Piston skirt varnish  
Average engine varnish  
Comp. ring (hot stuck)  
Oil screen clogging  merit 
merit 
merit 
merit 
 
% ≥ 7.8 
≥ 8.0 
≥ 7.5 
≥ 8.9 
none 
≤ 20 
2.3 Valve train  
scuffin g wear      
2.4* Black sludge  Daimler M271  Engine  sludge, average  merit ≥ RL 140 + 4σ 
2.5 * Fuel 
economy  CEC L-054-96  
(M111)  Fuel economy improvement  
 % ≥ 3.0 ≥ 2.5 ≥ 1.0 (for xW-
30 only 
no limit for 
xW-40 )≥ 3.0 
 
2.6 DI Diesel Oil 
Dispersion at 
Medium 
Temperature  CEC L-093-04 
(DV4TD) 
To be replaced by 
DV6 Absolute viscosity increase at  
100/g134C and 6 % soot  
Piston merit  mm²/s 
  
merit  ≤ 0.9 x RL248  
 
≥  2.5  
2.7 Diesel Engine 
Wear  
 CEC L-099 - 08  
(OM646LA)  
 Cam wear outlet (avg. max. wear 8 cams)  
Cam wear inlet (avg . max. wear 8 cams)**  
Cylinder wear (avg. 4 cylinders)**  
Bore polishing (13 mm)** (max. value of 
4 cylinders)  
Tappet wear inlet** (avg. max. wear 8 cams) 
Tappet wear outlet** (a vg. max.wear 8 cams) 
Piston cleanliness (avg. 4 pistons) **  
Engine slud ge avera ge **μm 
μm 
 
μm 
% 
μm 
μm 
merits 
merits≤ 120  
≤ 100  
 
≤ 5.0  
≤ 3.0 
report  
report  
report  
report≤ 120  
≤ 100  
 
≤ 5.0  
≤ 3.0 
report  
report  
report  
report ≤ 120  
≤ 100  
 
≤ 5.0  
≤ 3.0 
report  
report  
≥ 12  
≥ 8,8≤ 120  
≤ 100  
 
≤ 5.0  
≤ 3.0 
report  
report  
≥ 12  
≥ 8,8
2.8 *  
DI Diesel Piston 
Cleanliness & 
Ring Sticking  
 CEC L-078-9 9 
(VW TDI)  
 Piston cleanliness  
Ring sticking (Rings 1 & 2)  
Average of all 8 rings  
Max. for any 1st ring  
Max. for any 2nd ring  
EOT TBN (ISO 3771) **  
EOT TAN (ASTM D 664 ) ** merits  
  
ASF 
ASF  
ASF  
mgKOH/g 
mgKOH/ g≥ RL206 
 
≤ 1.0 
≤ 1.0 
0.0 
report  
report ≥ RL206 
 
≤ 1.2 
≤ 2.5 
0.0 
report  
report  ≥ RL206 
 
≤ 1.0 
≤ 1.0 
0.0 
report  
report ≥ RL206 
 
≤ 1.0 
≤ 1.0 
0.0 
report  
report 
2.9  
Effects of 
Biodiesel  CEC L-104-16  
(OM646LA Bio)  
 Piston Cleanliness  
Ring Sticking**  
Sludge ** merits  
ASF  
merits ≥RL206 
Report 
   Report  
2016 version: Applicab le until 1 May, 2023 
 */**: Footnotes referring to th e following Re quirements in the  A-/B- and C-Classes:  
No. 1.2       Referri ng to the latest Vers ion of the SAE J300 t he minimum Viscosity for xW-20 Oils after Shearing is 6.9 cSt  
No. 1.3.2              The CEC-L 036-90 method is not yet approv ed for the parameter HTHS at 100 °C.  
No. 1.6, 1.7, 1.8   Max imum limit s, Values take i nto account me thod and production tolerances  
No. 1.6, 1.7          Internal standard method must be used.  GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
28 
 No. 1.10               For Categories A3/B3, A3/B4, A5/B5 and C 1, C2, C3, C4: Ava ilable Test data from the Predecessor-
Test CEC L-039-96 may be used fo r ACEA 2016 instead of CEC L-11 2-16 under the condition that a Full 
L-039 Data set including RE1, RE2 , RE3 & RE4 + the   Daimler DB L-AEM (requirements as specified by 
Daimler AG), provided the require ments as specified in ACEA 201 2 are met.  
No. 2.1, 2.6 2.9    ** Parameter is not an official CEC Paramet er  
No. 2.2                 The limits shown are based on those app lied in U.S. market requirem ents. ACEA will continuously 
review the situation to ensure that these limits are appropriat e for European vehicles and lubricants.  
Once the successor Test Seq. VH , which is curren tly still under  development, is fully ASTM approved, the 
Seq. VH may be run with Limits officially communicated by ACEA.   
No. 2.3                 The CEC L-038-94 (TU3M) Test was remove d from these Oil Se quences since hardware will run out in 
early 2017. However, in order to assure/support Wear Protection  although TU3 is removed, ACEA intends 
to introduce the ASTM S eq. IVB Test as a TU3-Sucessor regarding  valve train wear with the next Oil 
Sequences Revision, with Limits f or Seq. IVB then to be defined  based on ILSAC Spec.  
No. 2.4                 Until the new CEC  Test Method L-107 is fully developed, the Gasoline Sludge Protection Performance 
of Engine Oil Formulations must be proven by the M271 Sludge Te st procedure as described by Daimler 
AG. Test results obtained by the  M271 procedure will be accepte d only under the condition that they come 
from Test Rigs being referenced  and quality controlled by Daiml er AG. Limits are based on the same 
Reference Oil as with the  old M111 Sludge Test.  
Once the L-107 Procedure is fully  CEC-approved, the L-107 may b e used, with limits officially 
communicated by ACEA.  
No. 2.8 *              Test Report must give measured values be fore & after the test, all measurements to be taken in the same  
lab.  
Note: EOT TAN is considered to b ecome performance criteria in t he future. Any test run prior to the 
publication of the ACEA 2012    O il Sequences can be used wheth er or not it has data for EOT TAN.  
 
 
 
 
 GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
29 
 Table (4)  
ACEA Oil Sequence for Heavy Duty Diesel Engines (E- Category) 
 
This sequence defines the minimum quality level of a product fo r self-certification to  EELQMS and for presentation to ACEA mem bers.   
Individual member companies may indicate performance parameters  other than those covered by the  tests shown or more stringent limits. 
 
REQUIREMENT TEST METHOD PROPERTIES UNIT LIMITS 
E4-22 E8-22 E7-22 E11-22 
1. LABORATORY TESTS 
1.1 Viscosity   SAE J300 Latest active 
issue   No restriction except as defined by shear 
stability and HTHS  requirements. 
Manufacturers may indica te specific viscosity 
requirements related to  ambient temperature.
1.2 Shear stability CEC L-14-93 or 
ASTM D6278 or 
ASTM D7109 Viscosity after 30 cycles 
measured at 100°C. mm²/s Stay in 
grade       
ASTM D7109 Viscosity after 90 cycles 
measure dat 100°Cmm²/s   Stay in grade 
1.3 HTHS viscosity CEC L-36-90 Dynamic viscosity at 
150°C and 
Shear Rate of 106s-1mPaꞏs ≥3.5 
Dynamic viscosity at 
100°C and 
hear Rate of 106s-1mPaꞏs Report 
1.4 Evaporative loss CEC L-40-93 
(Noack) Max weight loss after 1h 
at 250°C% ≤13 
1.5 Sulphated ash ASTM D874 % m/ m ≤2.0 ≤1.0 ≤2.0 ≤1.0
1.6 Phosphorus ASTM D5185 or 
D4951 % m/m ≤0.08 
  ≤0.12 
1.7 Sulphur ASTM D5185 or 
D4951 % m/m ≤0.3 
  ≤0.4 
1.8 Chlorine ASTM D6443 % m/ m Report
1.9 Oil / Elastomer 
Compatibility CEC L-112-16 Max variation of 
characteristics after 
immersion for 7 days in 
fresh 
oil without pre-ageing  RE6,  RE7,  RE8,  RE9 
Tensile strength % Report
Elon gation at brea k % -70/+20,  -65/+15,  -51/+9,  -65/+19
Volume chan ge % -1.5/+1.8,  -1.8/+7.7,  0.0/+10.7,  -1.5/+13.8
1.10 Foaming 
tendency ASTM D892 without 
option A Tendenc y –stabilit y ml Se quence I (24°C ) 10 –nil
Tendency –stability ml Sequence II (94°C) 20 –nil
Tendency –stability ml Sequence III (24°C) 10 –nil
1.11 High temperature 
foaming tendency  ASTM D6082 Tendency - stability ml Sequence IV (150°C) 200-50 
1.12 Oxidation CEC L-85-99 (PDSC) Oxidation induction time min. ≥65
1.13 Corrosion ASTM D6594 Copper increase ppm Report ≤20
Lead increase ppm Report ≤100
Copper stri p ratin g max Report 3
1.14 * TBN ASTM D2896 m g KOH/ g ≥12 ≥7 ≥9 ≥7
1.15 Low Temperature 
Pumpability CEC L-105-12 MRV mPaꞏs
According to SAE J300 for fresh oil Yield stress Pa
MRV at SAE J300 
temperatures applicable 
for the fresh oil viscosity 
grade  
1.16 Oil oxidation 
with biodiesel CEC L-109-14 Oxidation increase after 
168hA/cm ≤90 ≤80 ≤120 ≤90 
KV100 increase after 168h % ≤130 ≤130 ≤300 ≤150
 GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
30 
  
Table (4) …… Continue  
 
REQUIREMENT TEST METHOD P ROPERTIES UNIT LIMITS 
E4-
22E8-22 E7-22 E11-22 
2. ENGINE TESTS 
2.1 Wear CEC L-99-08 (OM646LA) Cam wear outlet (avg max 
wear 8 cams )m ≤1
40≤140 ≤155 ≤155 
2.2 * Soot in oil ASTM D5967 (Mack T-8E) Test duration 300h relative 
viscosity at 4.8% soot and 
50% shear loss  ≤2
.1 ≤2.1 ≤2.1 ≤2.1 
2.31 * Piston 
cleanliness CEC L-118-21 (OM471) Piston cleanliness (grooves 
and piston undercrown), 
average% ≥74 ≥74 
    
Oil consumption g/h Report Report   
2.32 * Piston 
cleanliness ASTM D6750 (CAT 1N) Weighted demerits (WDN ) Demerits  ≤286.2
Top groove fill (TGF ) % ≤ 2 0
Top land heavy carbon 
(TLHC )% 
 ≤3 
Oil consum ption (0-252 h ) g/kWh  ≤0.54
Piston, rin g, and liner scuffin g  None
Piston ring sticking  None
2.33 * Piston 
cleanliness ASTM D7549 (CAT C13) Merit rating Merit    ≥1000
Hot stuck rings    None
  
ASTM D7468 (Cummins ISM) Merit ratin g Merit    ≥1000
Top ring mass loss m g    ≤100
Crosshead, wei ght loss m g  ≤7.5 ≤7.1
Oil filter diff. press at 150h kPa  ≤55 ≤19
Engine sludge Merit  ≥8.1 ≥8.7
Adj. screw wei ght loss m g    ≤ 4 9
2.5 * Wear 
(liner-ring- 
bearings) ASTM D7422 (Mack T-12) Merit ratin g Merit ≥1000 ≥1000 ≥1000
Cylinder liner wear (CLW) 𝜇m ≤24.0 ≤26 ≤24.0
Top ring weight loss (TRWL ) mg ≤105 ≤117 ≤105
End of test lea d ppm Report ≤42 Report
Delta lead 250-300h ppm Report ≤18 Report
Oil consumption (Phase II) g/h Report ≤95 Report
2.6 Biofuel 
impacted piston 
cleanliness and 
engine slud ge CEC L-104-16 (OM646LA Bio) Piston cleanliness, average Me rit ≥RL255 + 6   ≥RL255 + 4
Ring stickin g ** ASF Re port   Re port
Engine sludge, avera ge ** Merit Report 
  Report 
2.7 Oxidation 
stability ASTM D8048 (Volvo T-13) KV increase (300-360h) % ≤75   ≤75
Oxidation peak hight A/cm ≤125   ≤125
Nitration peak hight A/cm Report   Report
Oil consum ption (avg 48-192h ) g/h Report   Report
2.8 Aeration ASTM D8047 (COAT ) Aeration % ≤11.8   ≤11.8
 
*/**: Footnotes referring to the following requirements: 
No 1.14 For E7, values < 9.00 are not accepted 
No 2 Unless otherwise stated, for ASTM engine tests in these AC EA HD Sequences, data m eeting the requirements 
of API CK-4 are acceptable, inclu ding Multiple Test Evaluation Procedures (MTEP) 
No 2.2 ASTM D5967 (Mack T-8E): Data meeting the requirements of  API CH-4 are acceptable, including Multiple 
Test Evaluation Procedures (MTEP). Mack T-11 results obtained as part of an API CI-4, CI-4 plus, C J-4, CK-4 or FA-4 approval program, can be used in 
place of Mack T-8E 
No 2.31 CEC L-118-21 (OM471): Alternatively, CEC L-101-09 (OM50 1LA) data meeting the requirements of ACEA 
E4-16 can be used to support an ACEA E4 claim 
No 2.32 ASTM D6750 (CAT 1N): Alternatively, CEC L-101-09 (OM501 LA) data meeting the requirements of ACEA 
E7-16 can be used to support an ACEA E7 claim GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
31 
 No 2. 33 AST M D7549 (CAT C13): Alter natively, CEC L- 101- 09 ( OM50 1LA) data meeting the requirements of 
ACEA E9-16 can be used to support an ACEA E11 claim 
No 2.4 ASTM D7468 (Cummins ISM): For ACEA E7, data meeting the requirements of API CI-4 are acceptable, 
including Multiple Test Evaluation Procedures (MTEP). For ACEA E11, merit number shall be calculated according to the  CK-4 specification 
No 2.5 ASTM D7422 (Mack T-12): 
For ACEA E7 only: 
Data meeting the requirements of  API CI-4 are acceptable, inclu ding Multiple Test Evaluation Procedures (MTEP). 
Merit number shall be calculated according to the API CI-4 spec ification. 
Mack T-10 results obtained as part of an API CI-4 or CI-4 plus approval program, can be us ed in place of Mack T-12. 
Mack T-12 Cylinder Liner Wear and Top Ring Weight Loss results obtained as part of an API CK-4 or FA-4 approval 
program, which includes a passing Volvo T-13 at the API CK-4 or  API FA-4 level, may be used to satisfy the 
requirements of the Mack T-1 2 in the ACEA Oil Sequences. 
No. 2.6 ** Not CEC approved parameters 
  GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
32 
  
Table (4) ……. Continue.  
 
These specifications under 2016 version are withdrawn with thes e ACEA Oil Sequences. However, they are 
allowed and can be claimed until 1 May 2024:  
 
REQUIREMENT  TEST METHOD  PROPERTIES  UNIT  LIMITS  
E4-16 E6-16  E7-16 E9-16 
1. LABORATORY TESTS  
1.1 Viscosity grades   SAE J300  
Latest active issue   No restriction except as defined by shear stability 
and HT/HS requiremen ts. Manufacturers may 
indicate specific viscosit y requirements related to 
ambient temperature.  
1.2  Shear stability  
 CEC L-014-93  
or ASTM D6278  
or ASTM D7109  Kinematic Viscosity at 
100 °C after 30 cycles  
 mm2/s Stay in grade  
  
ASTM D7109  
 Kinematic Viscosity at 
100 °C after 90 c ycles mm2/s  Stay in grade 
1.3 HTHS Viscosity  CEC L-036-90  Dynamic Vi scosity at 150 °C  
And Shear Rate 106s-1 mPa.s ≥ 3.5 
Dynamic Viscosity at 100 °C 
and Shear Rate of 106s-1mPa.s Report 
1.4 Evaporative loss  CEC L-040-93 
(Noack) Max. weight loss  
after 1 h at 250 °C  % ≤ 13 
1.5 Sulphated Ash  ASTM D874 % m/ m ≤ 2.0 ≤ 1.0 ≤ 2.0 ≤ 1.0
1.6 * Phosphorus  ASTM D5185 % m/ m ≤ 0.08 ≤ 0.12
2.7 * Sulphur  ASTM D5185  % m/m  ≤ 0.3  ≤ 0.4 
1.8* Oil / Elastomer  
Compatibility  CEC L-112-16  
 Max. variation of 
characteristics after 
immersion for 7 days in fresh 
oil without pre-ageing  
Tensile strength  
Elongation  rupture  
Volume variation   
 
 
 
% 
% 
% RE6 
 
 
 
Report 
-70/+20  
-5.5/+2.1  RE7 
  
 
 
Report 
-65/+15  
-1.8/+8.9  RE8 
  
 
 
Report 
-51/+9 
0.0/+12 RE9 
 
 
Report 
-65/+19 
-2.5/+16
1.9 Foaming Tendency  
 ASTM D892  
without option A  Tendency - stability  ml  
 Sequence I (24oC) 10 - nil 
Sequence II (94oC) 50 - nil  
Sequence III (24oC) 10 - nil Seq I 10/0  
Seq II 20/0  
Seq III 10/0
1.10 High 
Temperature 
Foamin g Tendenc y  ASTM D6082 
High temperature 
foam test Tendency - stability  ml  Sequence IV (150oC) 200 – 50 
  
1.11  Oxidation  CEC L-085-99 
(PDSC) Oxidation induction time  min ≥ 65  
 
1.12 Corrosion  
 ASTM D 6594 Copper increase  
Lead increase  
Copper stri p ratin g ppm  
ppm  
max Report  
Report  
Report  Report  
≤ 100 
Report≤ 20 
≤ 100 
3
1.13 * TBN  ASTM D2896  mg KOH/ g ≥12 ≥ 7 ≥ 9 ≥ 7
1.14 Low 
temperature pump 
ability  CEC L-105 MRV Yield stress (MRV at 
SAE J300 temperatures 
applicable for the fresh oil 
viscosit y grade) mPas 
Pa According  to SAE J300 for fresh oil 
1.15 Oil Oxidation 
with Biodiesel  CEC L-109-16  Oxidation increase after 168 h 
KV100 increase after 168 h  A/cm 
% ≤ 90  
≤ 130  ≤ 80  
≤ 130 ≤ 120  
≤ 300 ≤ 90  
≤ 150 
 GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
33 
 Table (4) …… Continue 
This sequence defines the minimum quality level of a product fo r self-certificatio n to EELQMS and fo r presentation 
to ACEA members.  
Individual member companies may indicate performance parameters  other than those covered by the tests shown or more 
stringent limits. 
 
These specifications under 2016 version are withdrawn with thes e ACEA Oil Sequences. However, they are allowed 
and can be claimed until 1 May 2024:  
 
REQUIREMENT  TEST METHOD  PROPERTIES  UNIT LIMITS  
E4-16 E6-16  E7-16 E9-16
2. ENGINE TESTS  
2.1* Wear  
  CEC L-099-08 
(OM646LA)   Cam wear outlet 
 (avg. max. wear 8 cams)  μm  ≤ 140 ≤ 140 ≤ 155 ≤ 155 
2.2 * Soot in oil  
 
  ASTM D 5967 
(Mack T-8E) Test duration 300 h  
Relative viscosity at 4.8% 
soot  
and 50% shear loss  
1 test/2 test/3 test average  
 
≤ 2.1/2.2/2.3 
 
≤ 2.1/2.2/2.3  
 
≤ 2.1/2.2/2.3  
 
≤ 2.1/2.2/2.3 
2.3 * Bore Polishing  Piston Cleanliness  CEC L-101-08 
(OM501LA) Piston cleanliness, average  
Bore polishing, average **  
Oil consumption **  
Engine sludge, average ** Merit 
% 
kg/Test 
Merit≥ 26  
≤ 1.0  
≤ 9  
Report≥ 26  
≤ 1.0  
≤ 9  
Report ≥ 17  
≤ 2.0  
≤ 9  
Report≥ 17  
≤ 2.0  
≤ 9  
Report
2.4 * Soot Induced 
Wear  
 ASTM D7468 
(Cummins ISM Merit  
Crosshead, weight loss  
1 test/2 test/3 test average  
Oil Filter Diff. Press at 150h 
1 test/ 2 test/3 test average  
Engine sludge  
1 test/2 test/3 test average  
Adj. screw wei ght loss  
 
mg 
 
kPa 
 
Merit 
mg   
 
≤ 7.5/7.8/7.9 
 
≤ 55/67/74 
 
≥ 8.1/8.0/8.0 
 ≤ 2.0 
≥ 17 
≤ 9 
R&R 
2.5 * Wear (liner-ring-bearings)  
 
 ASTM D7422 
(Mack T12) Merit  
Cylinder liner wear (CLW)  
Top ring weight loss 
(TRWL)  
End of test lead  
Delta lead 250-300 hrs  
Oil consumption (Phase II) μm 
mg 
ppm 
ppm 
g/hr   ≥ 1000 
≤ 26 
≤ 117 
≤ 42 
≤ 18 
≤ 95  ≥ 1000 
≤ 26 
≤ 117 
≤ 42 
≤ 18 
≤ 95 ≥1000 
≤ 24 
≤ 105 
≤ 35 
≤ 15 
≤ 85 
2.6 * Biofuel Impacted Piston Cleanliness and 
Engine Sludge  CEC L-104-16 
(OM646LA Bio) Piston cleanliness, average  
Ring sticking **  
Engine sludge, average ** Merit 
ASF 
Merit  ≥ RL255 + 4  
Report  
Report   ≥ RL255 + 2  
Report  
Report
 
*/**: Footnotes referri ng to the following  requirements in the E-Class:  
No. 1.8   Full Data sets being obtained on CEC L-039-96 + the D aimler requirements for DBL-AEM as 
specified by Daimler AG can be u sed instead of CEC L-112-16, pr ovided the requirements as 
specified in ACEA  2012 are met.  
No. 1.13 For E7, v alues < 9.00 are  not accepted.  
No. 2.2   Mack T11 results obtained as part of an API CI-4, CI- 4 plus, CJ-4, CK-4 or FA-4 approval program, 
can be used in placeof Mack T8E.  
No. 2.3, 2.6  ** Not CEC approved parameters.  
No. 2.4   Merit number shall be calculated according to the API  CI-4 specification  
No. 2.5   For E6 & E7 Merit number shall be calculated accordin g to the API CI-4 specification.  
For E6 & E7  Mack T10 results obtained as part of an API CI-4 o r CI-4 plus approval program, can be used in 
place of Mack T12. Mack T-12 Cyli nder Liner Wear and Top Ring W eight Loss results obtained as part of an 
API CK-4 or FA-4 approval program, which includes a passing Vol vo T-13 at the API CK-4 or API FA-4 
level, may be used to satisfy the  requirements of the Mack T-12  in the ACEA Oil Sequences. 
 GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
34 
  
Table (5) 
Pour Point and Flash Po int of Engine Oils 
  
Oil Grades Pour Point (1 Flash Point (2 
oC (Max.) oC (Min.) 
0W* -39 185 
5W -36 195 
10W -33 205 
15W -27 210 
20W -24 215 
25W -24 220 
**8 -30 185 
**12 -30 190 
**16 -27 200 
20 -21 215 
30 -18 220 
40 -15 230 
50 -9 235 
60 -9 240 
1) ASTM D97 Test Method 
2) ASTM D92 Test Method 
* W: Is Symbol for winter  
** Being new grades and are not yet produced by the manufacture rs so the values  for pour 
point and flash point are propos ed only and will be finalized l ater.  
For the multi-grades, the selecte d pour point shall be in line with the “W” oil grades. 
For the multi-grades, the selected flash point shall be in line  with the highest oil 
grades (summer).  
 
               GULF STANDARD                                                           GSO 1785-2: 2022 
 
35 
  
   
REFERENCES 
 
 
Main Reference  
 
 European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA): 
1) ACEA Oil Sequences - Gene ral requirements – 2022 
2) ACEA Oil Sequences - Light-dut y engines – 2021, Rev 1 (May 2022 ) 
3) ACEA Oil Sequences - He avy-duty engines – 2022  
 
  Recommended Practices and Information Reports of Society of 
Automotive Engineers (SAE): 
     SAE J 300 / Jan 2015 “Engine O il Viscosity Classification” 
 
Other References  
 
 Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE): 
SAE J357/2016 “Physical and Chemical of Engine Oils” 
SAE J304/2016 “Engine Oil Tests” 
SAE J183/2016 “Engine Oil Performa nce and Engine Service Oils”