Engine Oil Temperature Question

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Mar 23, 2013 | 11:47 AM

#16

Bullitt390

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Quote:

Originally Posted by AK FORD GUY

Any idea how the Rotella 15w40 does in colder climates?

Or would I need to run a different weight oil for summer and winter?

I wouldn't use 15W40 below 20 degrees. At that point switch to Rotella T5 10W30 or T6 5W40.

Josh

Mar 23, 2013 | 11:52 AM

#17

redroad

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From: Pa.

Quote:

Originally Posted by montana_highboy

Oil temps are typically about 20 degrees +/- hotter than coolant temps, this is normal and no reason for concern.

Ideal coolant temps would be 180-195, with oil temps running around 200-210

I run a 160 degree t-stat (motor runs at 170-175) and oil temps run 190-195

It's a tad on the cool side but i'm willing to sacrifice nominal mpg gains for better performance.

+1 on those temps

@Bullitt390

Quote:

You want the coolant to be 190-215 degrees and oil will run 10-30 above that.

There's room for improvement there both in engine wear and MPG with lower temps when your haulin .. It's that simple

Mar 23, 2013 | 11:59 AM

#18

AK FORD GUY

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From: Eagle River, AK

Quote:

Originally Posted by AK FORD GUY

Any idea how the Rotella 15w40 does in colder climates?

Or would I need to run a different weight oil for summer and winter?

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bullitt390

I wouldn't use 15W40 below 20 degrees. At that point switch to Rotella T5 10W30 or T6 5W40.

Josh

Thank you sir.

Looks like a different winter and summer weight will be in order.

Mar 23, 2013 | 12:08 PM

#19

redroad

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Quote:

Originally Posted by AK FORD GUY

Thank you sir.

Looks like a different winter and summer weight will be in order.

Yep especially where you live .. Those villages that are running remote generators and equipment up there where you live probably have a good idea what oil weight to run in Winter and Summer also ..

Mar 23, 2013 | 12:17 PM

#20

AK FORD GUY

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From: Eagle River, AK

Where I live, it is more temperate that the blistering cold that hits the interior or the northern part. I could possibly get away with running 10w30 or 5w40 all year long. Our summers don't get quite as hot as you all's.

Plus, with my work schedule (I work at a remote site), the truck will not see a huge number of miles per year.

Mar 23, 2013 | 12:20 PM

#21

redroad

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Quote:

Originally Posted by AK FORD GUY

I see so you only do one oil change a year anyway?

Mar 23, 2013 | 12:39 PM

#22

AK FORD GUY

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From: Eagle River, AK

Quote:

Originally Posted by redroad

I see so you only do one oil change a year anyway?

One, maybe two. Not real sure yet as I have not really driven this truck. It's been under the knife for three years.

It should be on the road sometime this summer. (atleast drivable...

)

Mar 23, 2013 | 01:29 PM

#23

Bullitt390

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Quote:

Originally Posted by AK FORD GUY

Being in Alaska you also have the new Rotella T6 0W40 you could use, that is if you plan on starting your truck at -30 with no block heater.

We won't get 0W40 in Colorado until next year.

Otherwise for year round use with little to no towing I would use Rotella 10W30. Or dump it in Spring for 15W40 for the warmer months with towing and then switch back.

Josh