Well-known in Australia, Europe, Africa and the Far East, Penrite Oil made its first appearance at SEMA this year, showcasing a number of lubricants and coolant products.
“We’re number two behind Castrol everywhere but here,” notes Penrite’s Marty Staggs. “So, this is our first year introducing products in the US.”
Known as a premium brand, so it costs a little more than other oils, Penrite is blended in one of three plants located in Australia and England. The motor-oil product range covers classic cars, OEMs, diesel, motorcycles and powersports in addition to racing applications. Then there are specialty greases and fluids for brakes, power steering, shock absorbers, small engines and hydraulics. The company also offers additives and fuel treatments.
Sampling of the products offered by Penrite Oil.
“It’s a very broad line,” says Staggs.
Racers will be attracted to the 10 Tenths full synthetic line in viscosities from 0W-20 up to 20W-60. There’s also a break-in oil called “Running In” and a racing castor oil. All of the racing blends start with PAO (Group 4) and Ester (Group 5) synthetics and contain full zinc levels.
“We have one Super Late Model racer who swears he picked up eight horsepower just by switching,” says Staggs, adding that 10 Tenths in Australia is race talk for “full-throttle” driving.
The 10 Tenths race coolant concentrate is non-glycol based and designed for vehicles that don’t require anti-freeze, anti-boil coolants. The Classic line is mineral based formulas to protect vintage parts.
Penrite also offers the HPR line of motor oils designed for street vehicles running on gas or diesel. These could come from either synthetic or mineral basestocks and many are certified for OEM use.
Penrite is sold in the US through a limited number of outlets, including mail order and race shops.