Torco's MPZ racing additive: A peek into horsepower and efficiency

Torco MPZ SR-1R engine oil

Racers and enthusiasts, throughout this series we have discussed the unmatched excellence of Torco oils. But today, we are looking into the heart of Torco: MPZ Racing Additive. If you've ever wondered why Torco is synonymous with performance, here's the answer.

The story of MPZ racing additive

Back in 1973 MPZ was born. Standing for Molybdenum, Phosphorus, and Zinc, this trio was compounded into a groundbreaking friction and wear-reducing additive. The aim? Engine efficiency, which, as any racer knows, translates beautifully into power efficiency and, ultimately, more horsepower.

At Torco, we've dedicated nearly two decades to understanding horsepower's intricacies. Through our experiences with MPZ elements, an evolved, refined version emerged. Now, let's break down this magic formula. At first glance it may look simple. But do not be fooled by thinking MPZ can be easily replicated with the following components. It takes specific variations from each component at a precise ratio to achieve MPZ’s success. Choosing the wrong variation of component in the wrong ratio will lead to inferior performance on the track and a mess inside the engine.  

Why Molybdenum?

The secret behind molybdenum is its incredible low coefficient of friction in an oil-soluble liquid state. Known as the ultimate friction reducer when cost isn't an obstacle. Stay tuned for future post on the different types of Moly, and why and how they are so effective at reducing friction. It is not what you think.

Why Phosphorus?

Phosphorus esters are the unsung heroes of the oil world. Their unique properties, stemming from high polarity and heat-seeking capabilities, make them irresistibly magnetic to metals like iron and steel, especially under extreme heat conditions. This affinity for moly films on these metals is the stuff of legends.

Why Zinc?

Zinc, particularly the oil-soluble kind (zinc dithiophosphate), is a formidable anti-wear/anti-weld additive. When paired with the phosphorus ester in MPZ, the two form a dynamic duo, enhancing each other's properties.

MPZ Unveiled: Summarizing the Powerhouse

MPZ's multifaceted properties include:

  • Magnetic attraction to metal
  • Low coefficient of friction
  • Exceptional anti-wear capabilities
  • Heat-seeking behavior
  • Lasting effectiveness.

And for our racers, this translates to benefits like more horsepower, enhanced wear protection, prevention of bearing corrosion, improved engine efficiency, and so much more. In fact, even high-performance street vehicles can relish in some of these benefits when using our racing oils with MPZ.

MPZ vs. Phosphated Zinc: The Game-Changer

By replacing phosphated zinc with MPZ in motor oil, we witness a staggering 41% reduction in friction. The outcome? An impressive surge in horsepower. And it doesn't stop there. MPZ minimizes wear almost as effectively as it slashes friction. When introduced in place of phosphated zinc alone, wear drops by nearly 40%.

The Coefficient of Friction: A Story of Elements

The resistance force on engine parts is intrinsically tied to the dominant element in a lubricant's anti-wear ingredients. Consider these coefficients of friction:

  • Iron on iron: 0.51
  • Zinc on zinc: 0.75
  • MPZ on MPZ: a remarkable 0.44

In essence, MPZ doesn't just modify friction, it revolutionizes it.

The MPZ Chemistry: Beyond Conventional Molybdenum

Unlike the commonly known molybdenum disulfide or molybdenum oxysulfide, MPZ boasts a unique composition. It's an oil-soluble concoction of phosphated molybdenum, phosphated ester, and phosphated zinc—all harmoniously working together, leading to unparalleled engine performance.

When it comes to racing engine performance, Torco's MPZ Advanced Chemistry stands as a testament to innovation, research, and sheer passion. For racers seeking the epitome of protection and performance, the answer lies in the heart of Torco's formula: the MPZ Racing Additive.

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