5w-20? Do I have to?

[302Xplorer]

The new F-150 has a recommendation for 5w-20 oil. What would be the disadvantage of using 5w-30? I want to use the Amsoil 5w-30 25,000 mile oil and they only make a 7,500 5w-20 oil.

 

[TheJMan]

The 5W-20 is simply a tactic that Ford uses to get the average fuel economy up for all of their cars. I don't think it's a bad thing, I use 5W-20 in my Mountaineer during the winters here. There would be no problem using 5W-30, but I definitely would wait until after the warranty expires to do the 25,000 mile OCI. If you were to have a lubricant related failure, well you can kiss that warranty goodbye.

 

[TheFox88]

I would not recommend putting a heavier weight oil in your truck. I just changed the oil in my X last weekend and wasn't paying attention. Instead of putting 10w-30 like i should have, i put in 10w-40. Since the change on sunday, i have lost power and gas mileage(i drive 50 miles a day, so i can tell). I'm changing back this weekend. I'm so stupid and distracted so this is a pretty normal mistake for me. Just my 2 cents.

 

[03ExplorerSPT]

The dealer put in 5w-20 instead of the recommended 5w-30 when I had my oil changed a couple days ago. I don't think it really makes a difference but I was semi unhappy. I always go with what is suggested from the manufacturer.

 

[tweakedlogic]

There will be no major problem using heavier oil. Infack there are benifits. Heavy use vehicles (race cars, semi-trucks, etc) need the heavier film of oil to protect the berings incase oil pressure drops to zero for a moment.
But the oil pump has to work hardcer to move the thicker oil. So you loose a tiny bit of power and MPG.
If you ask me, 5W-20 is too light for towing, wheeling, hauling, or city driving.

 

[mountaineer02]

The new F-150 has a recommendation for 5w-20 oil. What would be the disadvantage of using 5w-30? I want to use the Amsoil 5w-30 25,000 mile oil and they only make a 7,500 5w-20 oil.

I know this is a old thread, but i was curious if you went with the amsoil 5w-30 and how it worked for you? Thanx