Originally Posted By: unDummy
How often do you want to change the oil?
If you're looking for 5k-7.5k change intervals, Rotella 5w40, Mobil1 HM 5w30, Maxlife Synthetic 5w30... are easy choices.
If you plan on 3k intervals, then use ANY current spec 5w30 oil. Whether its high mileage or not makes no difference.
Change out the thermostat, PCV valve, and monitor consumption by topping off oil at EVERY fill up.
A little sludge is nothing to worry about. Current oils will prevent more sludge and clean out old sludge if you practice a safe and sane OCI.
Since vehicle is new to you, 2-4 shorter 1500-2000 miles OCI's are recommended to see what pours out of the drain plug and what builds up in the filter. Cut the filters open for inspection.
After you have recorded consumption, adjust viscosity as an aid to control it. If minimal, stick with 5w30 year round.
Do not add any additives or engine flushes without pulling rocker covers off for inspection. Don't fall for any product marketing. You need nothing but motor oil.
For 2011, the latest oil spec is API SN GF5. Use it!
PCV Valve was changed in September and thermostat was changed in December. The other day, the truck sat outside in 20F weather for two days. When I went to go start it, it started up fine but there was lots of blue smoke coming out of the tailpipe, which is why I think it burns some oil.