Another motor oil thread

[Machete]

I promise this is not about brand religion in motor oils. I have a cherry 2000 EB w 5.4 and 183,***. I get 14 mpg city and 16 hwy. it runs fantastic. I also go out of my way to get ethanol free gas and I don’t mind paying $3.65/g either. My truck is rust free and fully stock. All my service and repairs are done at either the dealer or my Indy. I choose based on the type of service I need ie for tranny flush I go to dealer, oil changes and those types of items. When I need a switch or tires/service, etc I go to my Indy.

I believe though not sure my dealer uses 0-20 wt for my synthetic oil changes ( they stop listing it on the windshield sticker years ago) but my Indy used 5-30 synthetic. I notice using the 0-20 I need almost a qrt by my next interval but when running 5-30 I need very little if any.

I’m about to have my rear differential, front differential and transfer case service interval plus my rear axle seals at my Indy but wanted to know if I should request 0-20 sino my dealer uses?

Again, my truck runs perfectly and espyloves ethanol free gas, it sounds deeper and I get 1-2 mpg extra w it. I throw in a bottle of seafoam in tank about every 4-6 weeks and all other fluids kept fresh.

My manual gives me varying wts to use. I’m in cold snow territory.

Thank you.

 

[1955moose]

Why change from 5w30. It's what I've used in my 2000 5.4 for over 4 years, and what's in every book, and sticker for that year Expedition. The reason your consuming more oil with the thinner weight is because of just that, a slightly thinner oil. In a perfect sealed engine, it shouldn't make any difference, but with oil leaks, and worn piston rings/ valve guides etc, your going to lose some along the way. Next service at the dealer, and everyone after, have the service writer put on the invoice use 5w30 oil, easy peasy, done deal.

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[Machete]

I spoke w my dealer service writer he said 0-20 synthetic only in winter due to <20 degree temps. They use heavier I summer and based on high load/towing customers.

 

[Machete]

Emailed me this:

Article No.02-1-9
ENGINE - ENGINE OIL - RECOMMENDED APPLICATIONS FOR SAE 5W-20 AND SAE 5W-30 MOTOR OILS - GASOLINE AND FLEXIBLE FUEL VEHICLES ONLY

Publication Date: JANUARY 14, 2002

FORD: 1992-2002 CROWN VICTORIA
1993-94 TEMPO
1993-97 THUNDERBIRD
1993-2002 ESCORT, MUSTANG, TAURUS
1995-2000 CONTOUR
1998-2002 ESCORT ZX2
2000-2002 FOCUS
1993-96 BRONCO
1993-97 AEROSTAR
1993-2002 E SERIES, F-150, RANGER
1995-2002 WINDSTAR
1997-99 F-250 LD
1997-2001 EXPLORER
1997-2002 EXPEDITION
1999-2002 SUPER DUTY F SERIES, SUPER DUTY F-53 STRIPPED CHAS.
2000-2002 EXCURSION
2001-2002 ESCAPE
LINCOLN: 1991-2002 TOWN CAR
1993-98 MARK VIII
1993-2002 CONTINENTAL
2000-2002 LS
1998-2002 NAVIGATOR
MERCURY: 1992-2002 GRAND MARQUIS
1993-94 TOPAZ
1993-97 COUGAR
1993-99 TRACER
1993-2002 SABLE
1995-2000 MYSTIQUE
1999-2002 COUGAR
1997-2001 MOUNTAINEER


This article is being republished in its entirety to update the vehicle models, engines and years affected.

NOTE: PLEASE REFER TO THE VEHICLE APPLICATION LIST LATER IN THIS TSB FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF VEHICLES AFFECTED BY THIS TSB.



ISSUE:
Ford Motor Company now recommends SAE 5W-20 viscosity grade for servicing most gasoline and flexible fueled vehicles.

ACTION:
All 2001 and 2002 vehicles where SAE 5W-20 is specified should be serviced at the recommended oil change intervals using SAE 5W-20. This oil is an improved formulation to improve fuel economy. Testing has validated this viscosity grade can be used in many previous model year vehicles. It is recommended ALL vehicles on the following Vehicle Application Listing be service with SAE 5W-20.

All 2001-2002 vehicles other than those listed in the "Exception 2001 Vehicles" or "Exception 2002 Vehicles" chart are being filled with SAE 5W-20 motor oil at the factory and should also be serviced with SAE 5W-20 oil.

Vehicle Application Listing Approved For SAE 5W-20 Motor Oil
1993-1996 1.9L Escort/Tracer
1995-2000 2.0L Zetec Contour/Mystique
1999-2002 2.0L Cougar
1997-2002 2.0L Escort/Tracer
1998-2002 2.0L Escort ZX2
2000-2002 2.0L Focus
2001-2002 2.0L Escape
1993-1997 2.3L Ranger
1993-1994 2.3L Mustang
1993-1994 2.3L Tempo/Topaz
1998-2001 2.5L Ranger
1995-2000 2.5L Contour/Mystique
1999-2002 2.5L Cougar
2001-2002 3.0L 4V Escape
1996-2001 3.0L 4V Taurus/Sable
1993-2002 3.0L (Vulcan) Aerostar/Ranger, Taurus/Sable (Flexible Fuel and Gas)
1995-2000 3.0L (Vulcan) Windstar
1993-1994 3.0L (Vulcan) Tempo/Topaz
2000-2002 3.0L 4V Lincoln LS
1995-2002 3.8L Windstar
1993-1997 3.8L Taurus/Sable, Thunderbird/Cougar, Continental
1994-2002 3.8L Mustang
2002-2002 3.9L 4V Lincoln LS
1997-2002 4.2L (SPI) F-150 (under 8500 GVW only), E-Series
1996-2002 4.6L 2V Mustang
1992-2002 4.6L Crown Victoria/Grand Marquis
1991-2002 4.6L Town Car
1994-1997 4.6L 2V Thunderbird/Cougar
1996-2002 4.6L 4V Mustang Cobra
1995-2002 4.6L 4V Continental
1993-1998 4.6L 4V Mark VIII
1997-2002 4.6L 2V Triton F-150/250 (under 8500 GVW only), E-Series, Expedition
1993-1999 4.9L E-Series, F-Series
1993-1995 5.0L Mustang/Mustang Cobra
1993-1993 5.0L Thunderbird/Cougar
1997-2001 5.0L Explorer/Mountaineer
1993-1996 5.0L E-Series, F-Series, Bronco

 

[99WhiteC5Coupe]

I bought a new 2015 Expediton Limited 4x4 with the 3.5L V-6 “Ecoboost” engine. The manual and oil filter cap specific 5W30 oil.

Twice, the selling dealer’s “factory trained technicians” changed my oil and filter (customer pay) and used 5W20 oil. When I realized it (via the invoice), I returned and spoke to the service advisor. He said his “guys” weren’t used to using 5W30 oil yet, as they had used 5W20 for so long. The technicians also overfilled the engine oil crankcase by two quarts one time.

I no longer go to that dealer for any service.

 

[1955moose]

I keep forgetting you guys live in a windy frozen popsicle stick of the country. Here in the San Francisco area, we stay above 32 degrees except for the coldest spots north and east of San Francisco. I used to run 20/50 Castrol Dino oil year round in all my 5.0 Mustangs and Lincolns. 20/50 is good down to 32 degrees, and I parked indoors. Isn't 5w30 good to like 10 below or more? Dealer is covering themselves, not a bad thing

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[ExplorerTom]

Interesting that they list the 4.6 and not the 5.4. They are essentially the same engine.

 

[Machete]

I must say I remain confused. I want to use the factory spec oil viscosity but it seems something has changed for unclear reasons.

Is it CAFE standards or did Ford engineers adjust viscous recommendation due to improved oil quality and technology?

I guess I’m beholden to whatever sino the dealer puts in it.

Also did research regarding motorcraft oil and oil filters. Very interesting learning Purolator manufactures motorcraft oil filters and ConocoPhillips makes the oil same oil as Kendall.

Live and learn.

 

[1955moose]

Kendall is a good oil. When I used to run the service dept at Eagle Rider here in SF, I used to buy Kendall 20/50 Dino oil in 55 gallon drums. 5 years, and over 70 motorcycles per season. Rotating in and out of my shop, I never had 1 issue with the big twin motors, or any smaller Sportster models. Knowing the way customer's treat rentals, that's pretty impressive. Keep in mind during the summer months, the bikes we're ridden in 100 degree plus weather. No synthetic, just good Dino oil, and Harley filters. Who knows, maybe Purolator makes Harley filters. We never bought the Harley oil because we had such good luck with Kendall.

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[Machete]

Kendall is a good oil. When I used to run the service dept at Eagle Rider here in SF, I used to buy Kendall 20/50 Dino oil in 55 gallon drums. 5 years, and over 70 motorcycles per season. Rotating in and out of my shop, I never had 1 issue with the big twin motors, or any smaller Sportster models. Knowing the way customer's treat rentals, that's pretty impressive. Keep in mind during the summer months, the bikes we're ridden in 100 degree plus weather. No synthetic, just good Dino oil, and Harley filters. Who knows, maybe Purolator makes Harley filters. We never bought the Harley oil because we had such good luck with Kendall.

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Very interesting. I ride a 1970 shovelhead rigid chop kick only jockey shift. I run straight 70 in hot summers and 50 in winter sino only. This year I failed to switoil viscosity when temps drop and couldn’t kick over the ***** w 70. Will have to wait til Spring!

 

[ManUpOrShutUp]

I bought a new 2015 Expediton Limited 4x4 with the 3.5L V-6 “Ecoboost” engine. The manual and oil filter cap specific 5W30 oil.

Twice, the selling dealer’s “factory trained technicians” changed my oil and filter (customer pay) and used 5W20 oil. When I realized it (via the invoice), I returned and spoke to the service advisor. He said his “guys” weren’t used to using 5W30 oil yet, as they had used 5W20 for so long. The technicians also overfilled the engine oil crankcase by two quarts one time.

I no longer go to that dealer for any service.

STS overfilled my old SUV, parked it out front, and told me it was ready to go. I started it, sat there for a few minutes, and could smell burning oil. I popped the hood and there was oil everywhere. The oil pressure got so high that it blew apart one of the fittings. STS left me sitting there another 2 hours, wiped the engine down with rags, and replaced the broken piece with some random clamp they had laying around the shop just so I could take it to my own mechanic. The manager then told me that if I wanted them to do anything more, I could take them to small claims. I do all my own oil changes these days.

 

[1955moose]

Who is this Sts you speak of? That's not only bad, that's off the charts. We've got to aware members of them, and stay away. Sorry, but that's beyond bad business practice. You sir need to get ahold of consumer affairs in your area, and advise them of this shoddy shop. They need to be aware.

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[ManUpOrShutUp]

Who is this Sts you speak of? That's not only bad, that's off the charts. We've got to aware members of them, and stay away. Sorry, but that's beyond bad business practice. You sir need to get ahold of consumer affairs in your area, and advise them of this shoddy shop. They need to be aware.

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They were one of the big tire retailers in the northeast and also did basic maintenance like Meineke, Midas,Jiffy Lube, etc. They were bought out by Mavis in 2015, who may actually be worse than STS.

 

[1955moose]

Anybody on the east coast, stay away from that shop! Thanks manup.

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[Machete]

UPDATE: Clarified motorcraft does offer a 5-30wt full synthetic motor oil. I am requesting it tomorrow. Will let eveyknow if any piston or chain lash at cold starts.

 

[JasonH]

Bobistheoilguy.com is a good resource for information on motor oil. To assess durability, it's best to get a used oil analysis. I generally use 10W-30 in all of my vehicles higher duty vehicles (Turbo, VCM, etc), because we don't get very low temperatures in the Houston area. For my naturally aspirated low mileage vehicles, I used 5W-30. I value the increased stability over any potential low temp flow improvement for more severe use. The narrower the viscosity range, the easier time the oil has staying within its proscribed range. I've never had an engine failure using this regimen.

The 5W-20 recommendation was made purely for fuel economy reasons, not engine longevity. Many manufacturers changed the recommendation in the middle of model years and I don't believe it accounts for oil dilution or severe duty driving. Honestly, I'm of the belief that most modern engines aren't going to suffer an oil related failure as long as a decent oil is used and changed timely. I tend to drive my cars until they fall apart, and I've only ever had problems with accessories and cooling. Never a problem with the engine itself, apart from leaks due to aging seals.

 

[theoldwizard1]

I bought a new 2015 Expediton Limited 4x4 with the 3.5L V-6 “Ecoboost” engine. The manual and oil filter cap specific 5W30 oil.

For many year 5W20 was THE standard oil on pretty much ALL ford products. Around 2015, the EcoBoost engines changed to 5W30.

To the OP, IMHO, using full synthetic over the Motorcraft "blend" is a waste of money.

If you are going to have the front and rear axle fluids changed stick with lube that meets ford specs form your model. DEMAND to see the specs of what they are putting in. As long as the lube meets the spec and you have a choice, go with full synthetic. This is one place where full synthetic DOES make a positive difference.

For your transfer case, ONLY USE THE MOTORCRAFT FLUID. Better safe than sorry.

 

[Machete]

FINAL: So all the lubricants changed yesterday, front diff, transfer case, rear diff, engine oil, also had the axle seals replaced.

I inspected all drive/gear components and the fluid. Here's what I saw:

Front Diff came out with some moisture. It was discolored but not ridiculous. Seems condensation caused moisture to blend into the oil. Boy was it thick! I poured from one plastic up into another and it was reeeeeeeal thick. All new motorcraft used.

Transfer case: Dark red, seemed dirty but not black. Motorcraft ATF used.

Rear diff: Looked the cleanest, brown and transparent (Ive changed several times) fixed the leak in the diff cover seal. Motorcraft plus friction reducer.

Engine oil: Dark brown, replaced w motorcraft 5-30 synthetic.

Did a Roadforce balance on all 4s. All is clean and fresh.

 

[Idahokid]

I use the motorcraft blend most of the time and a motorcraft filter.Ive noticed with some full synthetic oils I’m adding oil before I reach my 5000 miles.

 

[1955moose]

I do too using Mobil 1. Ironically, full synthetic is supposed to burn less due to the higher heat capability. Mine has a bit of head gasket leak though, so I'm sure it adds to the consumption.

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