I have a 2004 Tacoma 2WD with the 2RZFE, 2.4 liter motor. My manual calls for 5W-30 oil.
I'm sure motor oils have come a long way in the last 10 years since my motor was designed. As I learn about oil, I'm thinking that 0W-30 would not only be a safe replacement (because it still protects as a 30 grade oil at operating temperature), but because a 0W would surely flow better (if only even a little) upon start-up (when most engine wear occurs) it would actually do a better job at protecting the engine against wear until the oil reaches normal operating temperature?
Do you think my thinking is correct or off-base?
The only flaw in my thinking is if, when Toyota designed the motor, they wanted (for some reason) the thicker flow of a 5W versus a 0W, but I think that's unlikely. Maybe in 2004 there WERE no 0W-30 oils???
What do you think? Do you think a 0W-30 would be a safe change for the factory recommended 5W-30?
Thank you,
Ed
I'm sure motor oils have come a long way in the last 10 years since my motor was designed. As I learn about oil, I'm thinking that 0W-30 would not only be a safe replacement (because it still protects as a 30 grade oil at operating temperature), but because a 0W would surely flow better (if only even a little) upon start-up (when most engine wear occurs) it would actually do a better job at protecting the engine against wear until the oil reaches normal operating temperature?
Do you think my thinking is correct or off-base?
The only flaw in my thinking is if, when Toyota designed the motor, they wanted (for some reason) the thicker flow of a 5W versus a 0W, but I think that's unlikely. Maybe in 2004 there WERE no 0W-30 oils???
What do you think? Do you think a 0W-30 would be a safe change for the factory recommended 5W-30?
Thank you,
Ed