A bit of controversy as to if Mercon V is synthetic, semi-synthetic or dino oil. A Google search yields all sorts of differing opinions on the matter. Let's dig a bit.
The Motorcraft site lists this
tibit:
"Motorcraft® MERCON® V is manufactured with high-viscosity index, premium-quality, hydroprocessed base oils and specially designed performance additives..."
What is a "hydroprocessed" oil? Typicaly it means a Group II or Group II+ oil which is not a synthetic. However, the term
"severe hydroprocessed" means group III oils which are termed synthetics in the USA. But Ford does not use this term. Not looking great for a synthetic stock for Mercon V, but it's by no means clear.
What can we infer about the properties of Mercon V? Let's look at some flashpoints:
Motorcraft Mercon V (taken from MSDS): flashpoint Min 157C
Castrol Multi-vehicle flashpoint 177C
Mobil Multi-vehicle ATF - A Synthetic blend meeting Mercon V standards flashpoint 180C
Valvoline Synthetic Mercon V flashpoint 210C
Mobil 1 synthetic ATF flashpoint 200C
Reline D4 Synthetic ATF flashpoint 225C
Looks like the Motorcraft Mercon V has a flashpoint well below that of the known synthetics and below the synthetic blend Mercon V from Mobil. I would say that in all likelihood Motorcraft Mercon V is not a full synthetic oil and is at best a synthetic blend with a low flashpoint.
When I do a pan drop and complete fluid replacement via the cooler lines, I'm going to use either Redline D4 or Mobil 1 Synthic ATF for my 2002 Explorer, although I'm tempted by the Valvoline Synthetic Mercon V.
Rumple