Best oils for my trucks

[jcm414]

I'm a newbie and want to find the best oils to match my vehicles and applications. I have been combing though the oil analyses but I'm not sure what I'm looking at so I'd appreciate any recommendations.

I have:

04 4Runner w/ 4.0 V6 w/ 45K mi
05 F250 w/ 5.4 V8 w/ 15Kmi

The 4Runner calls for 5w30 and the 250 calls for 5W-20. I live in upper midwest and will have frequent cold starts. Both vehicles will do towing as well.

I'm currently using Amsoil Series 2000 but am considering moving to Redline or GC (for the 4Runner) since the Amsoil prices have jumped. Thanks in advance for the help.

 

[ConfederateTyrant]

How long are your oil change intervals?

If you do 10,000-15,000 miles (with a used oil analysis of course), then the Amsoil isn't a bad bargain, but I would go down to the ASL 5w30, or ATM 10w30 instead of the expensive Series 2000.

If you go no further than 7500 miles, then go with which one you feel is the best bargain.

Regardless I'd do a used oil analysis with each since you are towing, just best to make sure your engine isn't getting over stressed.

 

[jcm414]

Thanks for the reply. I put about 7K mi on between changes. More often during break-in. I also use the Amsoil EAO filters.

I've never done a used oil analysis. I see the Dyson Analysis link on the BITOG home page. Is that what everyone uses around here?

 

[ConfederateTyrant]

A lot of people on this site use Blackstone or Oil Analyzers, I prefer Oil Analyzers. The Dyson Analysis is an analysis along with Terry Dyson's interpretation, which from my understanding, is highly respected and he can help improve wear metals. He'll interpret past used oil analysis as well, so you could submit Oil Analyzers, or Blackstone reports to him for interpretation. I haven't used it yet, but will probably do it if my next UOA shows some crazy lead numbers again.

If you put 7,000 miles between changes, then GC, Redline, or the Amsoil XL oils (it's a little cheaper and would be in line along the price of Redline) will do great.