What type of oil - Ford Expedition 99 5.4 - 236k miles
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1st Gear
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What type of oil - Ford Expedition 99 5.4 - 236k miles
Hey guys,
I have a 1999 Ford Expedition 5.4 with 236,000 miles. I'm considering changing from 5w-20 to 5w-30 Full synthetic. I have been using conventional oil or semi synthetic over the last 10 years. I live in Florida so it's hot most of the year.
The reason I'm hesitant is the back and forth on oil velocity for this engine. I do not tow and I only drive it about 5k miles a year or less. I've read about cam sensors failing because the oil is too thick. I've also read about synthetic oil cleaning sludge which leads to revealing any leaks.
I've never used full synthetic and I've always used 5w-20, but with the very high mileage, I thought perhaps the engine may benefit from 5-30 Full Synthetic. Just want to keep my truck safe and working well!
I know this is an ongoing topic, but any knowledgeable opinions or suggestions are welcome.
Thank you!
I have a 1999 Ford Expedition 5.4 with 236,000 miles. I'm considering changing from 5w-20 to 5w-30 Full synthetic. I have been using conventional oil or semi synthetic over the last 10 years. I live in Florida so it's hot most of the year.
The reason I'm hesitant is the back and forth on oil velocity for this engine. I do not tow and I only drive it about 5k miles a year or less. I've read about cam sensors failing because the oil is too thick. I've also read about synthetic oil cleaning sludge which leads to revealing any leaks.
I've never used full synthetic and I've always used 5w-20, but with the very high mileage, I thought perhaps the engine may benefit from 5-30 Full Synthetic. Just want to keep my truck safe and working well!
I know this is an ongoing topic, but any knowledgeable opinions or suggestions are welcome.
Thank you!
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Jul 2019
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I've read about cam sensors failing because the oil is too thick. I've also read about synthetic oil cleaning sludge which leads to revealing any leaks.
Lead Driver
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 9,573
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From: North Texas
You are overthinking it. Both my 5.4s have been on 5/30 since I acquired a few years back, a good syn is not going to hurt anything. If it took better detergent oil to reveal a leak, you needed to take care of the leak anyway.
Cheap oil is API certified as is high end syn. I spend the cash on a serious filter and just whatever that is on sale for oil.
I was under the impression these specified 5/30. Even if not, most of my other rides do so it is easier for me to keep it on hand.
Cheap oil is API certified as is high end syn. I spend the cash on a serious filter and just whatever that is on sale for oil.
I was under the impression these specified 5/30. Even if not, most of my other rides do so it is easier for me to keep it on hand.
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Gage2502
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