FAQ
Have a question about zMAX Micro-lubricant? Browse by category below. For anything not covered here, call us at 888-645-1101 or send us a message.
Engine & Fuel
Can I use zMAX in my diesel engine?
Yes. zMAX works in both gasoline and diesel engines. It uses the engine oil and fuel as carriers to reach internal components, helping reduce friction, wear, and deposit buildup. It can also be used in turbocharged diesel engines. Learn more about how zMAX works in diesel engines.
Is zMAX compatible with all engine oils?
Yes. zMAX is compatible with conventional and synthetic engine oils. It works with the oil as a carrier to reach internal metal surfaces without changing the oil's viscosity.
Will zMAX void my manufacturer's warranty?
Using zMAX does not automatically void a manufacturer's warranty. Warranty coverage depends on the terms of the warranty and the cause of any failure. zMAX does not replace the manufacturer-specified oil, fluid, or maintenance schedule.
When should I add zMAX and how often?
Add zMAX Engine Formula to your engine oil after each oil change. Add zMAX Fuel Formula to a full tank of fuel at the same time. Retreat every 6 months or 6,000 miles, whichever comes first. For larger vehicles, follow your manufacturer's recommended oil change interval and add zMAX at those times.
Does zMAX help newer vehicles?
Yes. In newer vehicles, zMAX can help reduce friction, wear, and deposit buildup before they become larger issues. Regular treatment is intended to help maintain engine performance and fuel economy over time.
Can I use zMAX in my classic car or hot rod?
Yes. zMAX can be used in older and high-performance engines to help reduce friction, wear, and deposit buildup. The micro-lubricant uses the engine oil and fuel as carriers to reach internal metal surfaces without changing the viscosity of the fluids they're added to.
What if I accidentally add the wrong formula?
Not a problem. The Engine, Fuel, and Transmission formulas are the same product packaged differently for ease of use and application instructions. If you add the Fuel Formula to your oil or the Engine Formula to your fuel, your vehicle is safe to drive. No damage will occur.
Transmission
Does zMAX work in automatic and manual transmissions?
Yes. zMAX Transmission Formula is compatible with both automatic and manual transmissions. Add it after each transmission fluid change to help reduce friction and keep internal components operating smoothly.
Can I use zMAX in a CVT transmission?
No. zMAX Transmission Formula is not recommended for CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) systems. If you're unsure whether your vehicle has a CVT, check your owner's manual or call us at 888-645-1101 and we can look it up for you.
Will zMAX improve shifting?
zMAX helps reduce friction on internal transmission components and can help maintain smoother, more consistent operation. Results will vary depending on the condition of the transmission, and zMAX is not intended to correct mechanical problems or worn components.
Can I use the Engine or Fuel Formula in my transmission?
Yes. The Engine, Fuel, and Transmission formulas are all the same product. We package them separately to make application instructions clearer. If you can't find the Transmission Formula, use half a bottle (6oz) of the Engine or Fuel Formula instead. Not for use in CVT transmissions.
Motorcycles & Powersports
Can I use zMAX in a wet clutch system?
Yes. zMAX is safe for use in wet clutch motorcycle systems. It will not cause clutch slippage or interfere with clutch engagement.
Does zMAX help cool motorcycle engines?
By reducing friction and deposit buildup, zMAX helps the engine operate more efficiently and can help reduce excess heat under load. This can be especially useful in air-cooled engines.
Does zMAX work in ATVs, UTVs, and powersports equipment?
Yes. zMAX works in powersports applications including ATVs, UTVs, dirt bikes, and other off-road equipment. Use it in the engine oil and fuel at the standard 6-month or 6,000-mile interval, or at the start and end of each season for equipment used intermittently.
Watercraft & Marine
How do I use zMAX in my boat?
Add zMAX to your engine oil and fuel, or to the oil/fuel mixture in compatible 2-cycle applications, at the beginning and end of the usage season. zMAX helps protect internal metal surfaces during storage and helps reduce friction, wear, and deposit buildup during operation.
Can I use zMAX in a yacht or large marine engine?
Yes. For large marine engines where standard dosage guidance may not apply, call us at 888-645-1101. We'll help determine the correct amount based on your engine's oil and fuel capacity.
Firearms
Is zMAX safe for all firearms?
Yes. zMAX firearm products are safe for use on pistols, rifles, shotguns, and AR-platform rifles. Always ensure the firearm is unloaded and clear before applying any product.
How do I use zMAX Bore Cleaner on my AR?
Apply zMAX Bore Cleaner and Conditioner according to the product directions to the bore, barrel, action, and appropriate metal contact surfaces. Avoid excessive product inside the bore, and run a clean, dry patch through the bore before firing.
How does zMAX Bolt Lube work?
zMAX Bolt Lube penetrates metal surfaces to provide lubrication and help resist carbon and fouling buildup on moving components. This can make routine cleanup easier and reduce the amount of residue that adheres to treated surfaces.
Small Engine & Outdoor Equipment
Can I use zMAX in lawn mowers, chainsaws, and generators?
Yes. zMAX Small Engine Formula is designed for both 2-cycle and 4-cycle small engines including lawn mowers, chainsaws, string trimmers, generators, pressure washers, and garden tractors. Treat at the start and end of each season to help reduce wear during operation and provide protection during storage.
How much do I use in a small engine?
For 4-cycle engines: add 2oz per quart of engine oil, and 2oz per gallon of fuel. For 2-cycle engines: mix fuel and 2-cycle oil as normal, then add 1oz of zMAX per gallon of the premixed fuel.
Aviation
What is AVBLEND?
AVBLEND is zMAX's aviation micro-lubricant, specifically formulated for piston-driven aircraft engines. It is the first and only pure lubricant approved by the FAA for use in general aviation piston engines. AVBLEND uses the engine oil as a carrier to reach internal metal surfaces, helping reduce carbon buildup, valve sticking, operating temperatures, and corrosion during storage.
How do I use AVBLEND?
Add one 12oz bottle of AVBLEND directly into the engine oil system. For best results, operate the engine for at least 30 minutes after treatment. Retreat at each oil change interval.
General
Where can I buy zMAX?
zMAX is available online at zmax.com and through select retail partners. Find a store near you.
Still have questions?
Call us at 888-645-1101 or send us a message. Our team is happy to help you find the right product for your application.