Anyone know where I can get a fully synthetic 5W-20? Motorcraft makes a synthetic blend and I've found a Pennzoil 5W-20, but it's not even a synthetic blend (I wouldn't use Pennzoil anyway).

 

The only full synthetics in 5Wthinny to my knowledge are Amsoil and Red Line. Mobil1 is working on it but its not due for release until sometime in 2003. I looked at the data sheets for Mobil1 5w30 and its close to the borderline between 20 and 30 weight so I decided to use that in my '02 3.0 v6. There is some disagreement, even within Ford as to whether this will void a warranty if your motor deep 6's, so use your own judgement here.

 

I understand from my dealer that Motorcraft will have a full synthetic 5W20 "soon". I guess if I were going to use a 5W20, I would use the Motorcraft synthetic blend until the full synthetic becomes available.

I am using M1 5W30 despite the warranty question. Its just not worth the potential loss in longevity for an insignificant mileage increase.

MrBSS

 

I don't plan on using the stuff in my truck. My wife's new ride, a 2003 Honda Pilot, specs out a 5W-20 under all temp conditions. Seems pretty stupid to me to spec out the thin stuff, and no one seems to be selling it yet. I suspect Honda spec'ed it out for the mpg and ULEV ratings (seems engine longevity is not a consideration anymore). I may just use a full synthetic 10W-30 and say the heck with it.

 

Valvaline 5-20 is what I use in our '01 Screw with 5.4

 

I have used 3 tanks of fuel since switching from dino 5w20 to Mobil1 5w30 and can tell no difference in fuel mileage.

 

As I said, the difference in mileage is insignificant. However, the difference in longevity may not be. It certainly will not be improved with 5W20!

MrBSS

 

Dan,

I was skeptical when I saw that my then new '96 Avalon required 5-30 oil. I'm an old 20-50 type of guy. Well, 267,000 miles later, the car is still being driven to work (l35mi round trip) daily and burns no oil between 3-5000mi changes. I'm even using bulk oil and no-name filters from the quick-lube guys most of the time. Now I have an '02 SCrew and it requires 5-20. I'll stick to what Ford specifies, and will trust they are as smart as Toyota.