Daimler MB228.3

MB 228.3 is a lubricant specification designed for use in high performance medium and heavy-duty diesel engines where advanced aftertreatment systems such as Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs) are not fitted. These vehicles would typically align with Euro IV emissions standard and prior.

MB 228.3 lubricants are typically SAE 15W-40, 10W-40, 10W-30 and 20W-50 viscosity grades, based on API Group I or II base oils, with low levels of API Group III when required.

The main physical and chemical requirements for MB228.3 are shown below:

Requirement	Method	Unit	Limit
HTHS viscosity at 150°C	CEC L-36-A-90	cP	≥ 3.5
Sulphated Ash	ASTM D874	%wt	> 1.0 and ≤ 2.0
Phosphorus	ASTM D5185	%wt	Rate and Report
Sulfur	ASTM D5185	%wt	Rate and Report
Evaporation loss (NOACK) at 250°C	CEC L-40-93	%	≤ 13
Total Base Number	ASTM D2896	mgKOH/g	≥ 8.0

MB 228.3 is usually grouped with a range of other approvals. The most frequently seen approvals claimed in conjunction with MB 228.3 are ACEA E7, API CI-4, MTU Type 2, Volvo VDS-3, Deutz DQC III-18, Caterpillar ECF-2 and Cummins CES 20077/20078.