dnewton3
Staff member
Lets focus on three things here:
1) at 5k miles a year expected use, this heavy duty CAT engine will never be worn down to any point of concern, ever. It would take him 20 years just to put on 100k miles; think about it.
2) in Seattle and surrounding areas, I suspect 10w-30, 15w-40, 10w-40, or 5w-40 or 5w-30 would all work well if a decent quality HDEO. The thinner grades will allow for slightly better fuel economy, and easier starting. The wear factor between those choices is moot; see point #1 above.
3) given the low annual usage, and large sump capacity, it would be of benefit to do UOAs; he can both extend OCIs and also KNOW when one is due rather than guessing and dumping oil every six months.
4) the OP has not been back ...
1) at 5k miles a year expected use, this heavy duty CAT engine will never be worn down to any point of concern, ever. It would take him 20 years just to put on 100k miles; think about it.
2) in Seattle and surrounding areas, I suspect 10w-30, 15w-40, 10w-40, or 5w-40 or 5w-30 would all work well if a decent quality HDEO. The thinner grades will allow for slightly better fuel economy, and easier starting. The wear factor between those choices is moot; see point #1 above.
3) given the low annual usage, and large sump capacity, it would be of benefit to do UOAs; he can both extend OCIs and also KNOW when one is due rather than guessing and dumping oil every six months.
4) the OP has not been back ...