Shell Rotella T6 for a 2002 Dodge Durango

[TWHMAN]

I am getting ready to change the oil in my new to me 2002 Dodge Durango 4.7 V8 with 72K on it. Since I don't know the history I was thinking of running Rotella 5w-40 synthetic in it - I know it has a excellent additive package and I suspect it would be a very good cleaner since it is also diesel rated - which might be good with the sludge rep of the 4.7. Basically I was thinking that the Rotella may help clean up any sludge or gunk in the engine over the first few changes.

However, I think 10w30 is the factory recommended fill. But I thought the 5w-40 covered the range pretty well and may give a little bit better protection in the summer. I would think the 5 would be okay on a winter start. I live in Central PA if this impacts your ideas.

What do you think about the Rotella T6 for an 02 Durango with unknown history?

 

[dwendt44]

The 40 end of the spectrum might cause a slight drop in mileage, but you are spot on on the benefits.
Rotella has some interesting blends out now, but I haven't been able to find them yet.
0W-30.

 

[addyguy]

RTS will be fine in that engine.

 

[RageOfFury]

There is no history of sludge with the 4.7 nor with it's little brother the 3.7. The 4.7 PowerTech was on the Ward's 10 Best Engines list for 1999

Dodge recommends 5w30, not 10w30.

 

[Hokiefyd]

Some of the 4.7L engines show sludge up in the valve cover/oil fill port area.

 

[RageOfFury]

Originally Posted By: Jason Adcock
Some of the 4.7L engines show sludge up in the valve cover/oil fill port area.

Caused by owners that don't follow the recommended OCI...the problem is behind the wheel, not the engine.

 

[UNC017]

Originally Posted By: Jason Adcock
Some of the 4.7L engines show sludge up in the valve cover/oil fill port area.


Attributed to condensation in the filler neck due to short-trip operation. Not sludge.