PennSilverTaco's "Perfect 5-Lug Regular Cab" Build, Aspergers, and General BS MegaThread!

I switched to fully synthetic on my first oil change... and still change it every 5k.

So... I'd say yes. Do it.

 

you're smart.. absolutely synthetic is better and always change it by at least 5k. the maint req light on our tacos is set to illuminate temporarily at 4,500 miles and go solid at 5,000 miles. not only does the syn oil resist burning/leaking past piston rings but it doesn't generate ash/soot (sludge). our engine have timing chains now with a very sophisticated variable valve timing system. good quality oil is essential for the proper life span of chains, guides, vvt-i spool valves, solenoids, etc. i also buy oem filters in bulk (worldpac or imc). my weapon of choice is a full synthetic by a company called MOTUL (i think it's french). we do a lot of MB, bmw, vw/audi and the motul is rated for all those engines

 

long life oil is a scam. i don't want metal particles circulating in my engine for 10,000 miles! after the engine gets over 100k it's going to start burning a little oil (normal) and people don't check the level because they got the extended life stuff. next thing you know the red oil can warning is coming on (or the check engine light w/ variable valve timing codes) and they're wondering what the heck is going on

 

Yes, full synthetics are proven to protect better. I use either Mobil 1 or Pennzoil Platinum switching it up each time because different brands use different detergents and (to me) it keeps your engine cleaner. Also change it every 5K

 

I don't think it makes that much difference if you change your oil on a 5k basis. I do use syn oil in machines I don't change the oil on a regular schedule e.g., the snow blower.

 

Either way.
But use a good quality oil.
I run full synthetic oil, trans and gear oil.
A good blend is a good way to go also.

Full synthetic withstands heat better and is better for performance.
A good blend has better cooling and lubrication.

I change my oil every 3000-4000 in the cold north...

 

Go Mobile 1 full synthetic, buy from Walmart in the 5QT container, then take it to the dealer to have it changed and ask for the container back... they shouldent charge you more than $15 for the labor and filter.

 

This is Exactly what I use....I normally alternate between M1 HM and Penzoil Platinum HM with an oddball Quaker State UD. I always change between 4k and 5k with an OEM filter.At about 32 bucks a shot and about 30 minutes of my time it's cheap insurance. OP...I'd say full synthetic every 5k and let her roll.

 

Why Penzoil Platinum out of curiosity? Specific detergents?

 

Don't mean to hijack, but I've been wondering about synthetic gear oil. I am approaching 30k and want to change both diffs, and transfer case oils. The threads I've found on here are based on the LSD that wasn't based on brakes (I have a 2014), and so they used LS additive. Can I use

$30 mobil 1 75w-90 synthetic gear lube - 1 quart (pack of 2)

mobil 1 75w-90 LS on my 2014? or do I need to find a synthetic that has zero LS additives?

 

i don't think the additive would hurt your open diff. i use a standard

$30 75w-90 Synthetic Gear Lube - 1 Quart (Pack of 2)

75w-90 (GL5) gear oil..

 

Just a personal preference. Everything I've read is that PP stacks up well when compared to M1. I can usually get it at the local WW for a few bucks cheaper. I don't notice any huge difference between the two, no significant knocking or anything like that.

 

I have a 2014 as well. Changed my front, rear, and transfer case at 25k to

$30 Mobil 1 75w-90 Synthetic Gear Lube - 1 Quart (Pack of 2)

Mobil 1 75w-90 gear oil. That'll work fine, no additive needed.

 

Yes, synthetic is better. My Corolla uses or leaks a lot more when I use synthetic in it so I've switched back to conventional. This is not conjecture, I've verified it more than once. It usually takes a couple of cycles of conventional oil to get it back to not losing oil. It has about 263,000 miles on it though.

My Taco, Sienna mini van (wife's) and old T-100 all hold synthetic just fine.

From what Eric The Car Guys says, Penzoil Platinum is derived from natural gas, so the polymer chain lengths are more consistent. With that said, Mobil 1 full synthetic is excellent oil in my opinion. I even use it on my guns.

 

Changing your oil way before it needs it is a complete waste of money. There's absolutely nothing wrong with going over 3-5k IF your driving conditions permit it.

And always use full synthetic.

You can check your oil with the dipstick. Not trying to be condescending haha but you can tell if it's dirty with a rag or paper towel pretty quick and save yourself a whole buttload of money.

 

if you've maintained the car you shouldnt really have any sludge issues but I think the snythetic will help clean up what little there may be. The cleaner the engine the better as your seals wont dry out. Also you get better cold start flow.

 

My Corolla is 'easy' on oil. Even after 5,000 miles, I can easily see the dipstick through the oil. I use this as a bit of an indicator.

 

Post #42 in this thread says it all:

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/synthetic-or-conventional-oil.213459/page-3#post-11819818

 

I do a ton of interstate driving in good weather and have gone anywhere from 7500 to almost 10k between oil changes in my little 1.5 L Honda Fit. Kind of nice to go 30k miles in a year and a half and only have three or four oil changes haha.