High mileage?

[hockeyfun1]

I have a 2001 Ford Ranger XLT 2.5L engine with manual transmission. I have 180k miles. Past 30k miles, I have been using Full Synthetic NON-high mileage Pennzoil Platinum with around 8k OCI. Never had the oil tested.

I use about half a quart after 3000 to 3500 miles (mostly highway). Mechanic said he doesn't see any leaks when doing the oil change (guessing he means under the vehicle). I see a TINY bit of oil leaking/dried up at the valve cover gasket near the right side spark plugs. I was told to try re-torqueing the bolts, which I haven't done yet. Not a big deal either way.

With all that said, should I be using a high mileage synthetic or is non-high mileage synthetic ok?

At what point should I switch to a high mileage if what I am using now is fine for the time being?

Thanks!

 

[wiswind]

What you are using should be just fine as long as it is of the recommended viscosity
It is a quality oil that you should feel confident in.

 

[HTSS_TR]

When oil consumption increases from 1/2 quarts to about 1 quart in the same distance of 3-3.5k miles.

 

[901Memphis]

Keep doing what you're doing!

 

[285south]

Keep doing what you are doing and change the gasket seal on your next OCI.

 

[Flareside302]

Don't retighten the valve cover bolts it may make it worse..

Either change to high mileage and don't change the gasket..

Or change gasket and stay with what got you to 180k miles..

 

[BISCUT]

Why change anything?? Not sure of your vehicle but I'm a home garage not so good mechanic and if the gasket is accessible and it's not that hard go for it. I did it on 95 Camry -- but that is probably one of the easiest to do ever.

I would stick with you're regime nonetheless.

 

[andyd]

No recommendations about oil for your Ranger. You have the basic truck,how do like it? What do you use it for?

My '94 is a 4x4, 5 spd manual behind a 4.0 V6. It isnt a daily driver. It is an ongoing project. Despite its age, and decrepitude, the truck functions fairly well.

 

[hockeyfun1]

I run 5w30 as per the manual and oil cap.

I drive about 20k miles per year, maybe 75% highway miles.

I'll keep an eye on the oil levels and the gasket seal.

Are there any performance decreases by using high mileage versus regular? What would happen if someone put high mileage in a new car?