Oil and filters for 7.3L Power Stroke

[jrrfl]

Hi,

I have a new 2003 Ex with the 7.3L. I'm trying to find out what is the preferred Oil and filter to use. I plan to keep the vehicle for along time. Also, when should the first change be done and at what intervals thereafter. I'm also considering changing out the air box. What is recommended from all your experience?

Thanks,

Jim

[DCSpecial]

I've heard to wait for 3000 miles to first change the oil on a brand new PSD.

I change the oil on all of our diesels every 3000 miles or 3 months.....which ever comes first.

As for oil Shell Rotella T, Mobil Delvac 1300 or Chevron Dello 400 are all quality diesel rated oils.......I use Shell Rotella T 15W40.

I use Motorcraft oil filters. I buy them at Wal-Mart......like $9.47 each......half the price of the dealer.

AFE Magnum Force Intake with either the Standard filter or the new Pro-GAURD7 filter.

Or:

Tymar.



Hope this helps.

[jschira]

You can't go wrong with the Motorcraft FL-1995 from Walmart for under $10. You can also sometimes find Purolators at Sears for $2.99. They are a good filter too.

The factory recommends 5000 miles oil change intervals, and with a good oil and filter you can go this long. You can change at 3000 if you are anal, but it probably is not needed that soon.

I buy the cheapest oil that is API CH or CI rated. That is usually Walmart Tech 2000. Sometimes the name-brand stuff is only $0.05/qt. more. As long as it is API CH rated, it meets Ford specs. There are probably "better" oils, but if you change every 3000-5000 miles, you will never wear out the additive package in a "cheap" oil.

If you live in the Great White North, you might want to run a 5w-40 or 5w-30 synthetic in the winter for its cold flow properties. But you have to start getting below 0 F to get significant any benefit.

As far as air intake, what are you looking for? More air? More turbo whine? Better filtration?