OCI recommendations please

[CadCaveman3]

Would like to draw on the collective wisdom here.

Daily driver is a 99 Taurus, 3.0L Vulcan, 99K miles. Currently running M1 5w30 on 5K mile change intervals with Motocraft FL400S filter.

Engine uses about 1/2 qt per OCI. Usually when the level drops to the ADD line, its time to change.

What I would like to do is at 5K miles, change the filter and top off the oil. With the new filter and the oil use, I figure I would be adding about a quart.

Until I get a sample pump, to do a UOA, how long should I run after the filter change? Another 3K miles? More? Less?

Thanks
CC3

 

[Drew99GT]

It depends on your driving conditions and outsdie ambient temps. If you drive mostly highway miles, then you could go longer. If you drive 2 miles to work in sub zero temps, then 5,000 miles may be too long! I wouldn't extend at all until you get a UOA and are sure you don't have internal coolent leakage etc.

 

[haley10]

You should be able to order a sample pump and have it within two weeks. An analysis at between 6K and 7.5K would give you a good indication. 7.5K max. to see where you are.

 

[CadCaveman3]

Thanks for the replies.

Not worried about coolant loss, none has been observed. I've had this car since 2000 and 19K miles and its been on M1 5w30 ever since I've had it. Its oil usage has been very predictable, 1/2 qt in 5K miles.

I'll post a question in the oil filter area, but is the general feeling that the to OEM Motorcraft filter good for at least 7.5K miles?