Seems to be quite a bit of oil knowledge on this board and I know I'm probably another guy looking for a recommendation, but would love to hear some feedback. I have really been stuck between the Valvoline Premium Blue Synthetic and the Schaeffers 9000 synthetic; given all the good reviews I've read about them. With all the concerns around oil cooling, HPOP, stiction, and other behaviors in the 6.0, I want to make the best choice. Seems that folks on this board know the specs and what they mean, better than I do. This truck is fairly new to me, and needs to last. If things go my way, my 4 year old will get her driver's license in this beast someday.
Vehicle
2005 Ford Excursion 4x4 w/ 6.0L Powerstroke Diesel
117k miles - former owner religiously maintained by dealer
No leaks or past warranty recalls around EGR, oil cooler, etc.
Driving Style & Environment
Primarily Southeast U.S. (North Carolina to Florida) - rarely sees freezing, but lots of heat.
No idle periods over 3 mins. - 1 minute to warm-up, 1 minute to cool-down
90% highway / 10% city
150 miles on Monday, 150 miles on Friday (often sits at airport in covered parking weekly)
3-4 1000 mile roundtrip vacations per year, often while towing 7k lb. boat.
Given my high heat driving, I am leaning toward the 15w-40 grades. Please let me know your thoughts and recommendations on an oil, especially if you have experience with them in the 6.0. Thanks!
Vehicle
2005 Ford Excursion 4x4 w/ 6.0L Powerstroke Diesel
117k miles - former owner religiously maintained by dealer
No leaks or past warranty recalls around EGR, oil cooler, etc.
Driving Style & Environment
Primarily Southeast U.S. (North Carolina to Florida) - rarely sees freezing, but lots of heat.
No idle periods over 3 mins. - 1 minute to warm-up, 1 minute to cool-down
90% highway / 10% city
150 miles on Monday, 150 miles on Friday (often sits at airport in covered parking weekly)
3-4 1000 mile roundtrip vacations per year, often while towing 7k lb. boat.
Given my high heat driving, I am leaning toward the 15w-40 grades. Please let me know your thoughts and recommendations on an oil, especially if you have experience with them in the 6.0. Thanks!