I just did my first oil change on my truck over the holiday weekend. The owners manual called for 5W-20; however, my dad seemed to feel that it was too light and thought it sounded like the grade I would use in the winter time. I figured the engineers at Ford probably know better than either of us about which oil works best in the engine; but, I did want to see what you all thought. Go with what the owners manual says or go with something a little heavier like 10W-30?

Thanks in advance...

 

Stick with the 5/20. It is spec for these trucks.It will give you better gas mileage and is safe for warranty reasons. Just dont let it get low on level.

Also I believe the 5/20 is part synthetic.

 

I'm using Shell Rotella T 15w-40 for my first oil change.
I just got the truck with 90,000 miles on it.

Is this a good truck oil, or do you think it is too heavy for my small V-8 ??

 

CHECK OUT THIS LINK http://www.performanceoiltechnology.com/ford5w20.htm IT HAS SOME INTERESTING INFO ON OIL

 

Indeed, the correct oil for a '01-up F-150 is a semi-synthetic 5W20. I wouldn't recommend (or use) anything else for warranty purposes, except maybe a full synthetic if it's available.

Just my opinion though.... if it's out of warranty, do as you see fit. IMHO, regular oil and filter changes are more important than the weight of oil used anyways.

-Joe

 

On an older engine I would probably try the 5-20 and see how it does. If it does not burn it off too quick, stick with it, if it burns it quick go with a heavier weight like 10-30.