Thanks for all the comments, guys. I'll go with a 10W-30 semi-syn or syn oil, though not sure which or if that really matters too much. I'm thinking about 2 each 5-Quart jugs of QSUD 10W-30... and will order through Wal-Mart for delivery to the Wasilla, Alaska store. Those can be had for $19.97 each. The remaining 4-quarts will tag along upright in a spare auto parts box. I'll install the Purolator Boss filter because of its thick case -- don't want to take a chance with the gravel encountered. I have one on-hand.
Before hitting the road, I will be changing out the following:
- Installing new Rain-X pre-curved wiper blades
- Changing out the transfer case fluid with AutoTrak II
- Changing out the radiator fluid
- Changing out the rear diff fluid with Mobil-1 LS 75W-90
- Replacing a serpentine belt tensioner/pulley mechanism that's beginning to make a racket on startup
- Greasing the front end zerks-- the front end steering is good on this truck!
Besides hauling along basic extra fluids, I'll pack a spare ACDelco air filter and serpentine belt, and low-beam headlight and taillight bulbs, and a fuse kit. Other related parts to be taking are flares, jumper cables and one of those new Li-Ion compact battery jump starters, duct tape, first-aid kit, tool kit, etc. You get the picture.
I will need to drop down the spare tire to see if that mechanism still functions properly...
The truck will be ready to go.