conventional vs synthetic

ekfinn · #1 (**permalink**) 08-19-2010, 02:15 PM

Hey all,

I've been running Rotella T in my 97. I know for roughly 2x the price, I can move up to Mobil1 Truck or Rotella synthetic, but is it worth it? For conventional Rotella, should I keep the service to a religious 3k? How does it hold up to 4k or 5k interval?

What are your opinions and interval practices? I do worry a bit about stretching out the interval with a turboed engine.

rolsmojave3 · #2 (**permalink**) 08-20-2010, 07:34 AM

I'd just keep using Conventional oil and service it at 3k. You can go out to 5k IMO with synthetic oil, but the price just doesn't justify it. The HEUI relies on good oil. I'd stay with what your doing.

**terryknight** · #3 (**permalink**) 08-20-2010, 08:06 AM

I switch 2 oil changed ago to the Rotella T6 Synthetic from the conventional Rotella. I was running3-4K on an oil change I ran 5500 on my first synthetic and changing it today it looked cleaner than conventional at 3K. This time I went with the larger 2qt filter and will go 6K before I change it. I don't know if it has improved the fuel economy but I think it runs smoother. and for an extra $40ish I'm willing to try it.

rolsmojave3 · #4 (**permalink**) 08-20-2010, 08:32 AM

It should run a little smoother on fresh and/or syn. oil.

ianstew · #5 (**permalink**) 08-20-2010, 08:49 AM

Motorcraft 15-40 oil and filter every 5k as recommended by Ford. My truck runs the same at 1 mile on fresh oil as it does at 4999 miles on old oil. I will never go past 5k, and 3k is not necessary. but to each their own. Most techs will recommend MC or Rotella conventional changed every 5k, no more no less.