I have a 2003 Xp with 37k miles, Today, after 3500 miles of use, I checked the oil, and noticed that it needs about a quarter, I am using Mobil1 Synt 5-20
Im really concerned because I have read a lot about 5-20 grade.
Should I change to 5-30 or 10-30 and see what happens or it is just normal.. by the way, it has been more than a month that we have seen temperature in the triple digits (103-107) I always use the A/C of course and most of my trips are less than 5 miles.

THanks.

please replay. any suggestion will be greatly appreciated.

Gerardo.

 

My 2 cents?

There are a LOT of people in another thread here (the 20w50 thread) that are really, really against using anything except for the manufacturer's specified grade of engine oil. They have some very good points as well. As for the ambient temperature being in the triple-digits, your cooling system should keep your engine about the same temp as cooler climates when at operating temperature. My personal opinion - and it's just that, an opinion - is that switching to something like 5-30 or 10-30 will have little to no effect on your engine, and you may or may not burn less oil.

For the first time ever, I had a grease monkey (that's a term of endearment) talk me into 10w-30 instead of the factory-recommended 5w-20 oil. I don't think I would do that in the winter, but here in North Texas I don't think it is going to hurt upon startup when it would have the biggest effect.

So, basically, if you want to try a little heavier oil, go for it. You're really not going to hurt anything, and if you burn just as much oil, you can always go back to the ole' 5w-20. Just know that there are a lot more experienced and knowledgeable guys on the forum that would beg to differ with my opinion.

Oh, and one more thing. Some simple things like a slightly loose filter or drain plug could "trick" you into thinking you're burning oil. Just a thought.

 

thanks for your prompt reply,
my concern is that I also have a 2000 Ford focus, I use synthetic Mobil1 5-30.. change the oil every 6k miles, everytime since I bought some good 4 years ago, and I have never seen any oil consumption, if it is true that this car is way too small to be compared to a truck this size, I would say that the zetec 2.0 works hard .. even harder than the 5.4 in the Xp.. but I dont know, maybe I am comparing apples and oranges.. :S
on the other hand, my brother 2000 caddy (4.6 Northstar) burns about a quarter every 1k but they say it is normal... who knows...
ill switch to 5-30 and see what happens.. Ill keep you all posted..

greetings.

Ger.

 

Cool. Also looking forward to reading your results in your other thread (link below)
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/5...e-tc-plug.html