Just wondering what you guys recommend on my 5.4. It needs a timing service done and new cam phasers which is very soon to come. 87xxx miles. I've only had the truck for a few months and want to keep this truck in top top shape for as long as I own it. I know someone who used Castrol on everything they own and uses 5w20 full synthetic And never has had any problems.

 

There are many threads on here about oil, both the weight and real vs blend vs synth oil. I have been using mostly synth and 5w30. The Ford dealer here has a fantastic deal of 4 oil changes for 63 bucks. That is less than I can buy the stuff for. It is a blend, but I am okay with it.

 

All three types of oil are fine; it just depends on how often you plan to change your oil, based upon your personal lifestyle, or driving habits.

As an easy example:

If you are one that must change their oil every 3000 miles, then use 'conventional (non-synthetic) and save the coin

If you like to change your oil every 5 to 6K, then use a semi (blend) oil

If you have a busy life, and like the idea of being able to run a vehicle longer between oil changes (10K or more based on some oil types), then use full synthetics.

The above milage recommendations are also based on "normal" driving. If you tow a trailer, if you live in dusty areas, then adjust your mileage intervals accordingly.

In any event, I'd offer the suggestion of using the motorcraft oil filter; its one of the best out there.

 

I run full synthetic, penzoil platinum, Motorcraft filter, and change every 5,000 miles. I just can't fathom going 10,000 on oil.

 

I use Royal Purple 5w20 with a K&N filter and change every 5000.

 

Is there a correlation between consistent oil changes (every 5k) using synthetic oil and the cam phaser issue. In other words, is the cam phaser problem influenced by how often one changes their oil?

 

Mobil 1 5w30 at 7500 mile change intervals. Running 5w20 in these 3v engines for an extended amount of time will result in premature valve train wear and inadequate top end lubrication.

 

Oh jeez, not another oil thread.

 

Sources?

 

My truck at 215,000 miles, quiet with no ticks.