It was as ALL PURPOSE ENGINE LUBRICATING OIL. ARMY SPECIFICATION 2-104A,and came in 3 grades, SAE10, SAE30, SAE 50, according to the season it was being used. It was used in all wheeled and tracked vehicles, and suitable for gasoline diesel, liquid cooled, or air cooled (some tank engines were air cooled radials). It was Heavy Duty Detergent-type oil and had additives to enhance it's stability, and make it resistant to chemical changes in an engine that produce sludge, gum, and acids. The Army was concerned about sludge and other contaminents in oil and specified detergent oil. This oil worked well when the LO was followed and the Oil filters were changed at the same time. It was also formulated in order that the Oils under Army Specification 2-104A will be compatible between brand names of all those contracted to manufacture it. It was used from sometime in early 1942 on.
The above information is taken from the contents of an 1942 issue of Army Motors. The Army DID have and DID use HIGH DETERGENT MOTOR OIL (OE) in WWII. It was used in anything with tires or tracks, from Cushman Motor Scooters to Heavy Tanks.
The US Armed Forces had a few million vehicles in their WWII fleet, had they not used a quality motor oil suitable for all environments, there would have been infinitely more engine rebuilding and routine maintenance.
Another WWII HMV myth busted by 'ol RANGER
US ARMY HONOR GRADUATE MECHANIC, Restorer of fine Jeeps, MV's, MVPA 40+yrs, DAV, Army Aircrew member, Donor to Military Museums & CAF, MV Hobby since 1945
Other Hobby- Army Air Force & Busting Big Ass Military Imposters-Good at it
