another oil question
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Senior User
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 182
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From: ohio
another oil question
as this is my first diesel and my first winter with one, i am getting ready to do my first oil change and with winter upon us i am a little confused as to what type to use. since northern ohio weather can be iffy at best, you never no how cold it may get and for how long. i went to wally world and was reading thr motorcraft 15w40 oil bottle and it said only good to 20* F and below that you should use 10w30. well what should i put in for winter. is 15w40 ok for cleveland ohio year round.
Postmaster
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 2,598
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From: Maryland
My opinion is that the 6.0 doesn't like the 15W40 below 30 degrees. A good 5W40 works well in the winter months. It will give the reliable cold starts but still protect your engine like a 40 weight oil should at operating temperature.
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Senior User
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 182
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From: ohio
i will admit, finding oil that is rated for a diesel other than 15w40 around here is not easy to find. i been looking around and not having much luck. i have been looking at autozone ,advanced auto parts ,and wally mart
Postmaster
Joined: Aug 2006
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I am a little farther north than you in MI and I have always used 15w-40 year round with no problems. I have done this for both my previous 7.3L and my current 6.0L. I do keep it plugged in (when possible) though when the temps get below 20 degrees.
If the cold weather really concerns you I would skip the 10w-30 in favor of 5w-40.
If the cold weather really concerns you I would skip the 10w-30 in favor of 5w-40.
Fleet Owner
Joined: Nov 2003
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Most folks here go to a synthetic 5W-40 - this is good for year round. Lots of choices for brands (Rotella T, Mobil 1 Diesel, Royal Purple, Schaeffer 9000 ,,,).
WalMart should have Rotella and Mobil 1 - I know the WalMart by us does.
Just remember, the most common advice is wait until 10,000 miles to make the change.
WalMart should have Rotella and Mobil 1 - I know the WalMart by us does.
Just remember, the most common advice is wait until 10,000 miles to make the change.
Freshman User
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 34
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From: Apple Valley, Mn
I use Rotella 15w-40 all year 'round, your truck should be plugged in when your not running it in the winter so don't sweat the "cold start" so much, just keep it plugged in. If anything you should be concerned with your fuel filters and whether you remember to put a conditioner in your diesel fuel when it gets cold. Just my 2 cents
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Post Fiend
Joined: Sep 2006
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From: bricktown NJ
Originally Posted by 93truck
i will admit, finding oil that is rated for a diesel other than 15w40 around here is not easy to find. i been looking around and not having much luck. i have been looking at autozone ,advanced auto parts ,and wally mart
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