IA_Chiefs_fan

My 06 GT is just about ready for its first oil change. It looks like Mobil 1 synthetic is popular here so I plan to go with that. I've never used a synthetic before so I have to ask... Will I need to use a different type of oil filter, or just the basic Fram filter? Also, I have a 02 Ford Explorer with about 75,000 miles. Could I also switch to synthetic on it? Thanks

CrazyAl

Be careful, oil threads are pone to turn nasty!


You use synthetic oil with any kind of filter. Your "standard" Fram will be just fine.

Also, you can switch to it in your Explorer if you like--there's nothing to stop you.

callahan

Buy a K&N or Mobil One filter. Fram is crap. Does Mobil One make 5W-20? I use Royal Purple 5W-20 synthetic that I buy locally at Summit Racing. Mobil One is good stuff, though.

06GT4RAD

I agree FRAM is Crap use a Motorcraft Filter. Mobil 1 does make a 5w20 but it can be hard to find. Try Kragen or Wally world.

Richard

GTJohnny

Do some research and find out that Amsoil is the best. They also make a great filter. I put it in mine at 1000 miles and plan on changing it every 5000 miles or 6 months. Good luck!

alphy

I was told that if you choose to go synthetic, stick with it and dont change back to regular oil. The chemical properties are different and shouldnt be mixed back and forth.

I run synthetic in my 05 GT. Its a better oil than "real" oil.

IA_Chiefs_fan

I heard that you're supposed to wait until 10-15k miles before changing to synthetic. Is this true or should I just do it ASAP? Right now I'm at 2600 miles.

CrazyAl

Oh boy, here we go. I'm putting on my flameproof suit now.


The only people who think Amsoil is good are the people that sell it. I have seen at least one lab test (back when I was in engineering school) in which Amsoil was added to a test engine. It did indeed raise the HP of the engine...by a little less than 1%. It also raised the oil temperature by 20 degrees. No thank you! That stuff is expensive as heck too.


There is no reason why you can't mix Synthetic and standard oils, or switch back and forth. Heck, you can BUY synthetic and standard blends at any auto parts store.

This "urban legend" along with the one about "you shouldn't use synth until XXX miles" both come from the same place: A while back someone thought that synthetic oil was "too good" of a lubricant and you shouldn't use it until after the engine was broken in. Well, guess what folks. That's wrong too. Many cars come with full synthetic oil from the factory.

superiormirage

That's true. Most BMWs these days come with synthetic from the factory. I know a lot of the new VWs are the same way.