Abstract: The invention is directed to a process of reducing the chlorine content of oil as well as its propensity to foul during subsequent distillation processes. The process heats the oil to a temperature in the range of 400 to 700 F and contacts the oil with a non-oxidizing gas, such as steam, for a residence time of at least several minutes. Thereafter the oil may be distilled and/or finished to a base lubricating oil or other distillate product. The oil subject to the process may be used oil, and can be subject to a dewatering or removal of light contaminants treatment prior to being subject to the process.