What type of oil to use?
 

I have a 97 F-150 with over 149,000 miles on it. I spoke with someone at AutoZone regarding which type of oil to use. I remember her mentioning that I should use light oil but I can't remember which one. Any ideas?

I use 5W-20.

Yup, any name brand 5w-20 oil and a Motorcraft filter will keep your engine running just fine.

Yup! That's the one! 5W-20. Thanks guys.

Yup x4 by now..I think. :thumbsup:

Where do you live? That will have a slight impact on what oil you should use.

5w-20 is the only oil recommended for these engines, regardless of location.
If your in the great white north, then maybe a 0w-20; is that what your referring to?
All name brand 5w-20 oils (dino, blend or full syn) have been proven to provide protection in any climate, from -40° F to 130° F.


edit: on a side note [MENTION=203691]Troponin[/MENTION], are you in the medical field (for those that don't know, Troponin levels in blood are used in detecting heart attacks and a few other medical conditions)?

Light oil? As in oil lamp oil?

I used 10w40 for over a year because that is what my dad said I should use. I changed to the 5w20 about a month ago and I can't say I've noticed a difference besides the size of my oil leak.

On the topic of oil leaks, I have a bad hose connection up front (causing my leak) and the mechanic said I need to replace the whole hose. This is upfront in the middle, kinda on the passenger side if I remember right. Is this a hard job to replace that hose by my self or is that something I should leave to the pro's?

Semi retired atm, but yes, I was a medic. Also a nutritionist and personal trainer, so it all kind of meshes together. Always thought Troponin was a cool word