Equipment still under warranty often dictates the use of OEM-branded lubricants. However, operators know that their red, green or yellow-coloured machines may indeed run well on OEM-branded products, the cost per litre can often be quite high, resulting in a diminishing return on value.

There are more affordable alternatives to pricey proprietary lubricants which meet OEM requirements and specifications. However, the trick is finding the right one to fit your needs while being conscious of your overall wallet spend.

The Co-op Lubricant Advisory System (CLAS) is now available to help operators do just that.

An Easy-To-Use Money-Saving Tool

CLAS is a free-to-access, easy-to-use online selection tool that makes lubricant and fluid product recommendations for passenger and light-duty vehicles, commercial fleets, farm machinery, heavy equipment and other implements. By using an intelligent search function and entering keywords for the type of vehicles or equipment along with performance specifications, both retailers and customers can find the recommended Co-op Premium Lubricant product that will provide similar protection to the higher-priced competitors’ products in the market.

The CLAS program can be accessed from both desktop and mobile devices. Check out CLAS today!

The CLAS program is not just a data information sheet. A visual component highlights the features and benefits of each product, packaging images, first, second and third recommendations for every component that requires lubricants or fluids and more. The program also can provide you with an email copy that summarizes all lubricant and fluid requirements for your vehicle, along with oil drain intervals and filling capacities helping those using the program understand and recognize the exact Co-op Premium Lubricant product that is recommended for their use. Technical Data Sheets (TDS), Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and Where to Buy (local Co-op Finder) are also available for each searched product.

Nick Pawluk, Lubricant Sales and Marketing Co-ordinator for Co-op, said the CLAS system is “100 per cent about providing customer support.” He described it as a modern, technically focused approach that’s both quick and easy to use, and one specifically designed to help Co-op customers save money and time, and provide an accurate lubricant product recommendation for their operation.

“You don’t have to go to the store to use the program. You can check it out at home before driving to the store, to plan ahead and save time,” he said. “If a machine calls for a specific performance specification, you can look for a similar product to the OEM-branded lubricant with the same specifications.” For example, a Co-op lubricant product may match an OEM-branded product, at less cost per litre. If you have a big operation or have varying types of equipment, that savings per litre will go a long way for your bottom line.

Pawluk added the CLAS system helps ensure customers are confident in their lubricant selection, and that Co-op team members are also armed with the right information.

“It removes a barrier. You can get your own answers, or it allows the Team member to understand and advise on your overall operational needs now and into the future.”

Expanding Selection and Knowledge Base

The CLAS program is continuously updated with new products and information based on lubricant market industry research. Everything stems from a complete lubricant database, which includes the latest information on engine oils, transmission, differential, hydraulic, clutch and power steering fluids, as well as coolants, gear oils, brake fluids, greases, and other specialist applications for industrial and heavy-duty equipment.

Pawluk reiterated that every Co-op Premium Lubricant product is backed by the Co-op Oil Guarantee. “The information in our system and what we are recommending is very accurate,” he said. “Co-op offers lubricant matches to the exact specification for your vehicle and equipment, providing a similar lubricant product to that of the OEM brand. Customers can get similar service, performance and protection with Co-op Premium Lubricants.”