I've got a new 2003 5.4L, and after the first 500 miles absolutely love this truck.

We're about to take off on an extended vacation which will likely be over 2,000 miles. I don't want the first batch of oil going that long, so I'm planning on changing before we leave.

However, I'm only going to have 700 to 800 miles on it when changed. Are there any oil additives from the factory, or added at the dealer as part of delivery prep, that need to stay in there for a longer interval?

-- Ken

 

No additives. I always change for my first time on a new vehicle at 1000 miles. Then at 5,000 miles and then at every 5000 miles thereafter. I use Mobil 1 in the F150 as I change the oil myself and Motorcraft in the Mustang as it is changed at the dealer.

 

Thought I'd mention that about the only recommendation Ford gives for breaking in a brand new motor is to break it in at as many different RPM ranges as possible. (In other words don't keep the engine at the same RPM's for long periods of time.) While I'm sure you would be fine and have no problems, in your case, taking a 2000 mile road trip on a brand new motor may make this pretty hard to do if you plan to be driving at highway speeds the entire trip.

 

Be very careful on your trip. Do not stay at the same RPM/Speed for more than ten minutes at a time. There is a chance of improperly wearing in the rings. (A very good chance)

In addition you really do not need to change your oil before your trip. Just change it as soon as you get back. Modern engines don't make as much a mess to the factory oil during break in as older engines once did.

Oh, Welcome! and have a great trip!

 

Don't use any additives to your oil. They can do more harm then good...