AMSOIL Z-ROD™ Synthetic Motor Oil is specially engineered for classic and high-performance vehicles. It features a high-zinc formulation to prevent wear on flat-tappet camshafts and other critical engine components, along with a proprietary blend of rust and corrosion inhibitors for added protection during long-term storage.
Package sizes include:
1-Quart Bottle
1-Quart Bottles (case of 12)
AMSOIL Z-ROD Synthetic Motor Oil is recommended for older or modified engines requiring either 10W-30 or 20W-50 motor oil. Z-ROD Synthetic Motor Oil meets API SL and earlier specifications, allowing for increased levels of anti-wear additives. ZDDP levels in Z-ROD Synthetic Motor Oil exceed the limits of API SM and newer specifications.
AMSOIL Z-ROD™ Synthetic Motor Oil is specially engineered for classic and high-performance vehicles. It features a high-zinc formulation to prevent wear on flat-tappet camshafts and other critical engine components, along with a proprietary blend of rust and corrosion inhibitors for added protection during long-term storage. Z-ROD Synthetic Motor Oil is designed to perform on the street and protect during storage.
AMSOIL, the leader in automotive synthetic lubrication, produced the world's first API-qualified synthetic motor oil in 1972. Trust the extensive experience of AMSOIL, the First in Synthetics®, to do the best job protecting your engine.
The lifters and cam lobes on flat-tappet camshafts common to classic and high performance vehicles slide rapidly against one another, producing high friction and heat. The friction between the two components can eventually wear down the cam and affect valve operation, ultimately resulting in lost engine power and reduced efficiency. In addition, these areas are splash-lubricated rather than pressure lubricated like other areas of the engine, which adds extra strain on anti-wear additives like the zinc and phosphorus in zinc dialkyldithiophosphate (ZDDP).
AMSOIL Z-ROD Synthetic Motor Oil is formulated with high levels of ZDDP to protect flat-tappet cams, lifters, rockers and other areas susceptible to wear. Its high-zinc, high-phosphorus formulation provides the extra wear protection these critical splash-lubricated components require.
AMSOIL Z-ROD Synthetic Motor Oil is formulated with a unique blend of rust and corrosion inhibitors to ensure maximum protection during long-term storage. To prove its effectiveness, AMSOIL submitted Z-ROD Synthetic Motor Oil to the Standard Test Method for Rust Protection in the Humidity Cabinet (ASTM D-1748). This test evaluates the rust-preventative properties of oil under high-humidity conditions, similar to those faced by a covered hot rod in a damp garage. The metal coupon treated with AMSOIL Z-ROD Synthetic Motor Oil showed no signs of oxidation after 192 hours, while the coupon treated with a leading competitor's product failed the test after 24 hours.
AMSOIL Z-ROD Synthetic Motor Oils are compatible with conventional and other synthetic motor oils. Mixing AMSOIL Z-ROD Synthetic Motor Oils with other oils, however, will shorten the oil's life expectancy and reduce the performance benefits. Aftermarket oil additives are not recommended for use with AMSOIL Z-ROD Synthetic Motor Oils.
Because engines in classic cars, hot rods and other performance vehicles are generally modified, a universal oil drain interval recommendation for these applications cannot be given. Responsibility for determining the drain interval duration rests with the owner. As a general service guideline, the maximum drain interval for Z-ROD Synthetic Motor Oil should not exceed 5,000 miles or one year, whichever comes first. In heavily modified engines (e.g. forced induction, nitrous) the maximum drain interval should not exceed 3,000 miles or one year, whichever comes first.
This product is not expected to cause health concerns when used for the intended application and according to the recommendations in the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS).
Click here to view the MSDS Data Sheet for AMSOIL ZRF.
Keep out of the reach of children. Don't pollute. Return used oil to collection centers.
| TYPICAL TECHNICAL PROPERTIES | |
| AMSOIL Z-ROD 20W-50 Synthetic Motor Oil (ZRF) | |
| Viscosity @ 100°C, cSt (ASTM D445) | 19.2 |
| Viscosity @ 40°C, cSt (ASTM D445) | 136.2 |
| Viscosity Index (ASTM D2270) | 161 |
| Flash Point °C (°F) (COC) (ASTM D92) | 244 (457) |
| Fire Point °C (°F) (COC) (ASTM D92) | 262 (486) |
| Pour Point °C (°F) (ASTM D97) | -40 (-40) |
| NOACK Volatility, % weight loss (g/100g) (ASTM D5800) | 4.8 |
| High Temperature/High Shear Viscosity @ 150°C, 1.0 X 106 s.-1), cP (ASTM D5481) | 5.1 |
| Four-Ball Wear @ 40 kgf, 75°C, 1200 rpm, 1 hr, scar diameter, mm (ASTM D4172) | 0.36 |
| Total Base Number (ASTM D2896) | 9.0 |
Product Name: AMSOIL Z-ROD 20W-50 Synthetic Motor Oil (ZRF)
Current Rating: 4.76out of 5 stars
Votes & Reviews: 51 vote(s) and 103 user reviews.
Reviewed by Stephen: 
Great oil for my 60 yr old car, I also amsoil in modern cars better fuel mileage
Reviewed by Delbert:
As usual awesome stuff!
Reviewed by Jeremiah:
I use Amsoil in all my vehicles. Bought this for my 1977 Ford F-250 after the top end of the original 351M was rebuilt. Thought it would be the right choice for this classic motor. Time will tell.
Reviewed by Brenda:
This is beneficial to eliminate wear in older cars from the oil not having zinc. Very happy with this product and recommend it.
Reviewed by Eric:
I use this oil in a pair of merc 540's, which have been dyno'd over 600hp. It's the only oil I will use and with over 300 hours on these engines, this says it all.
Reviewed by Ron:
Great oil for BMW airheads
Reviewed by Dave:
I've used Amsoil for years in all my diesels now it's time for my old cars too. Great product and I'm very happy with the results
Reviewed by Dennis:
This goes into my '69 Corvette, 427 internal protection is the target for this oil. I like the rust inhibitor that is present to protect the internal components of the engine when it is inactive and the over all protection when I take her out for a drive. A good oil at a good price.
Reviewed by George:
Perfect weight for a big block Chev, doesn't blow through the motor while racing, like similar oils do. Great product from a great company
Reviewed by Hector:
I've tried a number of different motor oils over the years. Mobil 1, Royal Purple and a few others. Amsoil Z-Rod is definitely the best oil I've ever used in my Reher Morrison Chevy 540 big block. The engine maintains a higher oil pressure even on a hot day! Appears I've gained additional horsepower also!
Provides peace of mind knowing my motor is protected and producing maximum power!
Reviewed by Michael:
Using it in my mower engine running cooler and oil is staying clean after 20 hour of running hard.
Reviewed by Jason:
The only oil I'll use in my racecars
Reviewed by Looj:
If you dont want to wipe out cam lobes, USE THIS PRODUCT!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Reviewed by moros323:
I have been running Amsoil in my last 3 cars I love it and the protection it offers!
Reviewed by Classic's for life:
Bought it for a 73 mustang. Love the product.
Reviewed by Dave:
Perfect for a air cool VW
Reviewed by the Painter:
I bought this oil based on the fact that it has extra added Zinc for flat tappet cams generally used in hot rod motors and the fact it is known in the hobby to be excellent oil.
Reviewed by cmart:
Used product for engine with high compression and required high zinc content
Reviewed by Huck:
I have a '73 Bronco with a 302 V-8 engine. It has a mild flat tappet cam and a few other goodies. Because of the 'flat tappet cam' the engine needs oil with zinc. The Amsoil Z-ROD Syn. is exactly what the 302 ci. needs as it contains high levels of ZDDP for max. protection.
Reviewed by CharlieB:
I use this product in my 1952 M38A1 Willy's Army Jeep
The engine runs quiet and smooth with this oil
Reviewed by Mike "Mad Scientist":
I have been a long time Amsoil user myself for all my racecar/street car applications. When I opened my shop it was only fitting to stick with the best! All my customers cars/builds get Z-rod or Dominator series and with great results.
Reviewed by Robert:
Amszoil is the best Oil I've ever used I'm back to using it after realizing the higher price is worth the way higher quality
Reviewed by G:
Use in my 1969 Corvette.
Plan to start using in my 79 280ZX and 80 Bronco
Reviewed by Drivr51:
I use this product in my 602 crate circle track engine to optimize HP all the meantime protecting my engine from the harsh elements. Love this oil.
Reviewed by Mike:
I wanted the best flowing highest zinc content for my Hemi Charger. Amsoil was my choice. Cost a little more but only the best for my baby!!!
Reviewed by Tacomaracing:
Best racing oil I have used in high horsepower racing go karts.
Reviewed by MotoMack:
I use this in my EBR1190rx race bike, engine has been raced or on track for 8000 miles, engine is still in amazing condition, no loss in power, compression and leak down test are top notch.
Reviewed by KO:
Great oil for your vehicle. Wouldn't use anything else
Reviewed by S30:
After much research needed a top quality oil to protect my 44 year old classic car. Z Rod fits the bill. The best protection out there.
Reviewed by 454_Burban:
I use this oil in my '93 k2500 suburban with the 454tbi motor, It has a mild cam that calls for a zinc additive. I get my used oil lab tested and the tests show that this oil holds up better and provides more protection than the previous high-zinc oil I was using. I now use Amsoil in all of my vehicles and recommend it to friends every time.
Reviewed by Vinny:
I've been using Amsoil for over 5 years now. This stuff is really incredible! Even with higher oil temps it really does hold up well over a long race. We recently started using this in our endurance car (Acura Integra) and so far it has held up remarkably well!
Reviewed by Sam:
Good Product and helpful people at their Las Vegas warehouse
Reviewed by JDragon:
One of the higher Zinc oils my motor loves. It quieted my lifter tick and my motor just feels more healthy overall. Bought two cases after making sure it was really helping.
Reviewed by B:
As always amsoil comes through and produces one amazing product! Does everything promises. Great oil for great price. Use amsoil products on all my cars!
Reviewed by john tran:
I use this on my c6 corvette that has a cam and upgraded valvetrain. with this oil my oil pressure is alot more consistent even in the more extreme oil temps. i used to use mobil one synthetic but that stuff is like water compared to this oil at high temps. my motor is protected and i feel alot more confident driving my car hard
Reviewed by Will:
I run AMSOIL oil and gear lube I all my antique autos. Unbeatable protection in my opinion for older, seldom driven vehicles.
Reviewed by Army dude:
I use this in my 68 gto, fantastic zinc content, holds solid psi even in warmer temps. Won't use anything else.
Reviewed by Bayman:
Seems to keep the engine purring smoothly even after "getting on it" once daily driven now weekend fun car -
2005 Subaru STi
Motor built by Andrew Ashman of OKC
Tuned by him as well.
Reviewed by Self proclaimed Amsoil fanboy:
I use this oil in Ford 390 FE engine with flat hydraulic flat tappets, and 235 inline 6 Chevy with flat tappets. The correct amount of zinc is why I use this oil.
Reviewed by Lane with the big block camaro:
I started running it in my big block camaro and I won't run anything else. The engine runs smoother and it also brought the temps down
Reviewed by 1_wikd_v:
Inuse it for my tranny and motor oil
Reviewed by Max:
I think this is the best oil for my '68 Firebird.
Reviewed by Tominator:
Put Amsoil in my 03 Cobra engine and transmission. Noticed a positive difference right away. Engine started faster and idled smoother. My T56 Magnum trans(6 speed) shifted gears more smoothly as well.
Reviewed by E63 amg:
Absolutely love the quality of amsoil!! I use only the best on my motors!
Reviewed by Bushmaker:
Product is GREAT!!! I use in my Yamaha YXZ and can NOT complain about this oil. I have been in the red on my gauges for over half a race and still to this day have not had any motor issues.
Reviewed by Sunny D:
Love this oil for my supercharged car with 180k miles.
Reviewed by Ed:
I choose this for my 79 Mustang as it has a non-roller cam and I want to ensure the longest wear and service from the cam and the engine. I trust this oil to meet the needs of my car which are different than modern ones.
Reviewed by Rover Guy:
This is a great product for after rebuilding and maintaining my all aluminum block Rover engines. I use it in both my competition trail truck and my daily driver.
Reviewed by Tim:
I road race a large ci fe ford. It is pushing 4000 miles. The engine has never been freshened and it has never had a failure!
Reviewed by Mike:
In my 2011 Flush Stage 2 Mustang. Never worry about a thing using Amsoil. I have been using Amsoil in all my vehicles in sliding my 2009 HD Softail Custom
Reviewed by Superjet:
Mix with pump 91 gas for my superjet jet ski. The best oil I've ever used and smells great !
Reviewed by Steve O:
Little concerned my vehicle never used any oil before using the competitors brand I have used I have used a half quart of Amsoil oil now on the last seven hundred miles
Reviewed by M Series Rebuild:
We rebuild a lot of vintage flat tappet engines. This product performs as advertised; we have had excellent results for years.
Reviewed by Dalt:
Great product, delivered super-fast.
Reviewed by Moto Gizmo:
I use this oil for both my Superformance AC Cobra MK3 and 93 Mustang GT with 347 Ford Performance engine. I feel confident I am getting the best protection money can buy!
Reviewed by Wheelchair Pete:
Like this stuff as it provides needed ZDDP protection for all of my flat tappet camshaft antiques.
Reviewed by Millz:
I run a dirt track car so my oil sees extreme conditions with heat, cycles, and dirt. I use to change my oil after 3 nights out and would then send an oil sample off to get tested and they would come back with the oil is at the end of its life. I then switched over to this amsoil dominator 15-50 mid last year. I sent an oil sample off after 3 races and they told me the oil was practically new still. I then sent a sample off after 6 races and they said the oil its self was still good but recommend I change it because of high silicone (dirt) content in it.
Reviewed by N/a:
Great protection from racing
Reviewed by John parrino:
I think is best stuff out there!!!!
Reviewed by Long time customer:
AmsOil Z-Rod is by far the best oil for older engines that were designed to use motor oil with Zinc. I have used it for many years, and I've never had any issues.
Reviewed by Pose:
The best oil for my newly rebuilt 1963 Buick 215 Aluminum V8
Reviewed by Mike:
Stays clean and never had a oil related failure
Reviewed by regulat guy Mike:
I have used amsoil in my harley and cars as well for a few years now, U still remember the first time I used it in my twin turbo stealth. It ran much smoother and quieter. The same in my harley. This is the best oil in the market, I have tried others before Amsoil but nothing is better.
Reviewed by Ike:
I run a stroked 6.1 to a 6.6 Hemi 10.8:1 Compression. I need an oil that takes a pounding driving to work or doing some street racing. Very happy with Amsoil products.
Reviewed by JimP:
I bought this oil primarily for the ZDDP in it. The engine (67' BBC) runs cooler and quieter. I would buy this again, but probably to 20w-50 vibe the 10w-30.
Reviewed by Hoff Motorsports #117:
I do asphalt circle track racing and Amsoil is all I use! When I'm cranking my car over 9000 rpms it's all I trust!
Reviewed by JLG:
Using in an 87 Grand National built up with alcohol. Big turbo with 400 trans, run with this oil and have no complaints. Also have been using for years in 1960 Pontiac with 565 bow-tie block over 1350 horsepower with 1071 blower.
Reviewed by Chris:
It lubricates as intended.
Reviewed by Bull:
Great
Reviewed by NFR:
Use in our 602 Crate Sportsman Modified
Reviewed by Fredster1101:
have used Amsoil products for last 20 years in cars, trucks, motorcycles and boats.
I have used the top tier Signature Blend several times for the 25K Mile/1 year change interval and have not experienced any problem with wear or failure OR any excessive use during these change intervals.
I see no reason to use any other fully synthetic product in my vehicles, with having the preferred membership prices available, and the cost of anything else is higher for not as good of product!
Reviewed by john:
I use it in many hot rod cars I work on. good stuff.
Reviewed by mustang65:
very good product, been using it for years
Reviewed by Billy G:
Antique cars such as my 65 Vette needs oil made under different specs than today's cars. Amsoil ZROD is made from specs the manufacture required when these high compression engines were plus it has zinc
Reviewed by Larry R:
I have two older cars with flat tappet equipped engines. the Z-Rod oil is perfect for this application. Plus being a full synthetic oil, I know my engines are getting the best lubrication and protection available. As an aside, I also use Amsoil in my newer cars, not Z-Rod though!
Reviewed by Wano:
I have a 1955 Chevy 2dr sedan, with 383 stroker
Motor.
Feel comfortable using zrod in it
Reviewed by Don:
This is the first time using Z-Rod motor oil in my restomod 69 GTO prior to being stored for the winter. So far, looks like a good product, but need time to see how it performs over the next year.
Reviewed by Papadoc:
Use in my antique flat tappet engines and motorcycles from the 70's. Great engine protection.
Reviewed by Nec:
I don't drive my Kaiser much, but using Amsoil Zrod oil I only need to change my oil once a year. This oil protects my flat tappet cam.
Reviewed by chris craft lover:
I switched my vintage 327f motors over to this oil in the spring - just did my winter oil change and love this product and the service I receive - ordered on a Monday arrived on the door step Wednesday ..great product and great customer service - thank you
Reviewed by Joe:
Trying it out on my air cooled VW buggy. Have only gone 200 miles but already noticed my oil pressure is 5-10 lbs better at idle on 90 degree day.
Reviewed by Flexw:
I use the ZRod in my VW Super Beetle with it's Flat Four brand new engine. Excellent lubricant with Zinc additive for breaking in the valve
Reviewed by Jerry:
Just what I need for my old school VW!
Reviewed by Jason:
Best oil period for my original flat tappet L-82 Corvette.
Reviewed by Easy:
Bought this for a friend,he was looking for zinc based oil.
Engine has solid roller camshaft.
Mostly street duty,with some racing.
He's ready to buy more amsoil products for his other vehicles!!!
Reviewed by Ike:
I have used this in my 1987 Silverado 5.0 with 250,000 miles on it for the last 20 years and, I still get 4500 miles to a quart and the engine is still quiet and has never been opened. Very happy with Amsoil!
Reviewed by TINY:
ALL THE PRODUCTS PREFORM AS EXPECTED
Reviewed by Fritz:
I use this in my 90k mile evo to help combat the effects for e85
Reviewed by Niles:
I drive my 68 Dart 2 dr sedan constantly !!!! Literally !!!! It is small block mild with 3 speed auto. And Z Rod Is All I run It Along With Synthetic oil filter and go air filter all AMS Oil Products!!! Recommend it to Everyone !!
Reviewed by RICHIE:
Use this in my 1934 Ford Pro Street Pickup, With a 406 Small Block Chevy making in excess of 500 HP, Run it in very Hot Weather in the summer going to car Shows and Cruise nights, Preforms well with this oil, no problems at all, Love it.
Reviewed by Nikke:
The best for vintage engines!
Reviewed by Timothy:
Used this in 2 engines. Air cooled 911 and my S32 engined E24 M6. Both seem to enjoy the thicker oil and seems to quiet valve clatter. Very pleased.
Reviewed by Marathoner:
The oil itself appears to be living up to its standards from what I have observed. I have used it in my two GTO's and the purpose for purchasing it was due to the storage during the winter months. By using the synthetic oil I do see my 1966 GTO running somewhat cooler when running on the highway. So far I am completely satisfied with the change over to the Z-Rod Oil
Reviewed by Mike:
I have a 1989 Toyota pickup that I have owned since new. I use only Amsoil products in my vehicles and am happy to say that the old pickup has 370,000 miles now and still runs like it did when new. Consider me a very, very happy customer!
Reviewed by g:
I switched to ZROD oil for my vintage gto mainly for the zinc/phosphorus content. when I did I changed from a competitors 10w40 to amsoil 20w50 because of oil usage (believed to be valve seal related) and oil consumption decreased significantly.
Reviewed by MuscleCarBuilder:
They say it's designed for older engines but it's not. Once your engine is at operating temperature the oil pressure drops below 10psi at idle because the oil is just too thin.
Reviewed by John:
Keeps the engine clean ands hold pressure well in bbc.
Reviewed by Harry:
Used this oil in both my classic cars and have had no problems
Reviewed by Jim:
Used in a hot rod
Reviewed by donnie:
purchased a few cases for my triumphs ..i've been running tr6's since the 80's in northern canada ..zrod with it's storage protection /zinc and 20/50 keeps my precision rebuilt engines in good health
Reviewed by Tom:
This oil has lots of ZDDP. To protect my Cam and lifters. The 20W-50 I like because l run it in my air cooled engine. Even on a hot day with the Engine at temp of 280' I still have 30# of oil pressure. I also run Amsoil gear lube in the transaxle. I'm sold Amsoil products.
Reviewed by Subwaync:
I've driven VW Super Beetles for the last 35 years, and once the engines are broken in I've always switched over to Amsoil. And considering that I lived in the Southwest all of that time and 1st generation VW's are only cooled by Air and Oil; it made Amsoil a must. With it's ability to keep engine temps much lower and wear and tear down to a minimum it's been an easy decision.
I've used it for years and feel it is the best you can buy
Necessary to maintain the 1966 396 engine in my Super Sport. Full synthetic has many added values over conventional oil especially in cars that get low mileage, irregular usage.