Ford VCT = 5w-20 must be used?

[hardcore302]

It uses electronically controlled hydraulic valves that direct engine oil into the camshaft phaser cavity. These oil control solenoids are bolted into the cylinder heads towards the front of the engine near the camshaft phasers. The powertrain control module (PCM) transmits a signal to the solenoids to move a valve spool that regulates the flow of oil to the phaser cavity. The phaser cavity changes the valve timing by either advancing or retarding the camshafts to allow for optimum engine performance, reduced emissions, and increased fuel efficiency.

I was told that because the VCT depends on the motor oil, that this specific weight must be used. Is this true?

 

[SAJEFFC]

Well when I had my 08 GT i tried everything from MC 5w20 to Mobil 1 5W20 and Mobil 1 5W30 and noticed NO difference in the way it ran or sounded. I even did a run of Mobil 1 0w40 and it seemed to like that best! Butt dyno said it was smoother and quieter and the mpg didn't take a hit. Who knows?

 

[DieselTech]

I always use 5-30 in the 07. talked to many ford engineers and really for my climate there will be no difference seen. For Warranty purposes I feel 5-20 should be used, but I am my own warranty

 

[bepperb]

Both my Honda and Toyota have similar setups, where the camshaft is phased by oil entering a chamber on the end and rotating it relative to the sprocket... all controled by an electronic valve.

So, this has become a very common configuration.

Within reason I assume you won't have a problem, and haven't heard of many around here. Obviously the 20 weight oil is much, much thicker than most any oil until it gets to operating temp and you have no problems before then. I'm not sure on the Ford setup, but on either of mine there is a crank and cam position sensor, so a continuous feedback loop and constant change on the openness of the valve and this is what would compensate for different oil pressures and therefore weights of oil.

Of course, unfortunately this topic will steer to the "why not use 20 weight" and away from the theory behind why it would matter.

 

[Zaedock]

Originally Posted By: hardcore302
I was told that because the VCT depends on the motor oil, that this specific weight must be used. Is this true?


5W20 is recommended, however, the oil control solenoids will compensate for a +/- cSt or two of viscosity difference. Otherwise, those in northern climates or export markets would have no VCT. Also, IIRC, the new MOD engines run 15*F cooler than previous versions, which is about the difference between 5W20 and 5W30. It's pumping 30wt oil anyway.

I see no reason not to use 5W20, especially for warranty purposes. IMO, Ford has done an excellent job keeping oil temps under stable control in their vehicles. Good protection AND economy are a bonus.

 

[lipadj46]

Not to mention that you can get 5 quarts of motorcraft 5w20 and a motorcraft filter from walmart for under $20.

 

[DieselTech]

I see oil temps usually from 185-195 depending how hard I push the vehicle and cliamte conditions. Ford has done a great job on the cooling systems on these mod engines. My 07 has seen 201 degrees pulling my boat up a 5 mile 6% grade.

 

[hardcore302]

I have been and plan on using 5w-20, just curious to see if other weights would work.

 

[Kestas]

I tried using 20W-50 in a Duratech engine with the VCT system. It ran horribly... stalled... and set a code for the cam sensor. Went back to 5w30 and all was fine. Oil viscosity was the only variable during this episode.

So yes, you must use the thin oil for the VCT system to work.

 

[Benzadmiral]

It has phasers? Woo-hoo! About time!

The stun setting is available through the stereo, right? "Helm, hard over! Phasers, fire! Point blank!"

 

[Jason8691]

Many will claim that it needs 5W20 to make them work properly, but the system works off of oil pressure. Your engine won't know if its 5W20 or 5W30, either way it will hit the pressure it needs to function properly.

 

[SAJEFFC]

Originally Posted By: Benzadmiral
It has phasers? Woo-hoo! About time!

The stun setting is available through the stereo, right? "Helm, hard over! Phasers, fire! Point blank!"

Scotty....I need MORE power dang it!!