molsonlabatt

iTrader: (1)

I downloaded the manual for my 2000 F-150 (5.4L) and it states to use 5W-20. While doing my oil change I noticed a sticker on the fan shroud that says to use 5W-30.

Which is it Ford?

My thought was that since it is a Canadian truck, they suggest a different weight.

Thoughts?

PS. I purchased the truck used, so I do not have the original manual in the glove box.

2000fordf1504x4

either way it wont hurt it and I run 5w-30 in my 2000 5.4 L and I don't have any problems

otto457

Originally the motors were specd for 5w30 which was later back specd to 5w20 which is why there are the differences. Use a 5w20 with confidence in the 2 valve motors. Now which 5w20 is a whole different issue.

jspansel

I had the same dilemma. But since my 99 says 5w-30 I can only assume that is what the PO had been putting in it, so thats what I stick with.

2000fordf1504x4

thats what I use and i've racked up 41,000 since I bought it so now its at 163,000 and I live in southdakota and its been as low as -30 so it doesnt hurt anything

otto457

Both a 5w30 and 5w20 are similar viscosity at cold temperature. The difference comes in at operating temps. So -30 in a 5w20 or 5w30 really isn't the difference.

2000fordf1504x4

ok and it dosent seem to mater either way on mine

molsonlabatt

iTrader: (1)

Thanks for the replies. Its just good to know why there is two recommendations. I will stick with the 5W-20 since my mazda 3 takes the same oil (buy in bulk).

I use a castrol syntec (full synthetic) and have had good results (or more correctly no bad results).

racin4ds

iTrader: (1)

Due to CAFE and energy conservation Ford back spec'd everything to 5w20- if you tow or just work your truck hard, you are better off with a 5w30 as it maintains its shear strength better at high temps and functions the same at cold flow. IMO the extra .00002 mpg isn't worth it, I run 5w30 in all my fords.