Community Forums

Ted Lambert · 04-25-2018, 03:12 PM

Just curious what weight of oil are people using with a 5.3 Lt. ?
The manual says to use 0W-20.

The older manuals gave a range for different conditions and temperatures.
Their recommended oil seems so lite to be pulling a trailer. But what do I know. I'm not talking about brands because that will start a war as to what is best,LOL.

Funding Fun · 04-25-2018, 03:18 PM

The "Zero W Anything", unless you live in Alaska, is for improved mileage. I use 10W30 or 40 in everything, including my 2015 2500 6.0L. Never had an issue.

Ted Lambert · 04-25-2018, 03:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Funding Fun

The "Zero W Anything", unless you live in Alaska, is for improved mileage. I use 10W30 or 40 in everything, including my 2015 2500 6.0L. Never had an issue.

Not a 5.3 and not a 2017, but thanks for the reply.

runamuck · 04-25-2018, 04:19 PM

I just had the first oil change on my 2017 sierra 1500. went with 10W30 synthetic
I am in the DFW area

glennwest · 04-25-2018, 05:58 PM

If my owner manual states 0W20 that is what I would run in it.

1bigmess · 04-25-2018, 08:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by glennwest

If my owner manual states 0W20 that is what I would run in it.

Yup. Unless you're an automotive engineer and know more about how it was designed than the folks that designed it to choose a different oil, then go with the SAE spec oil called for in the owner's manual.

Normal_Dave · 04-25-2018, 09:16 PM

This was hard for me to accept as well. I'm old school and I always carefully chose the viscosity based on temperature use/season and manufacturer recommendations.

0W-20 regardless of brand is full synthetic. Properties far exceed traditional motor oils including extended service intervals, and temperature service capability.

Mobil 1 spec sheet shows GF-5 and GM Dexos 1, gen 2 certifications. As I understand it, these supersede all previous versions, and cover multiple prior weights and viscosities. Yes it also helps meet gas mileage standards at the same time, but even us old school gearheads have to accept the fact that modern engines are built with better tolerances, and the computer control systems reduce the rate of oil fouling.
https://www.mobil.com/English-US/Passenger-Vehicle-L ube/pds/GLXXMobil-1-0W20

Side note, I've ended up using Motorcraft branded synthetic-blend 5W-20 in place of "up to" 10W-30 in all my vehicles as Ford certifications approved it retro-active for all prior weights. It's priced right, and works great.

All that said, use the 0W-20 GM recommended and all should be well.

Funding Fun · 04-26-2018, 05:20 AM

Speaking of "automotive engineers"...a best friend of mine is actually an "automotive engineer" and works for GM in Lansing at the Cadillac Plant. He is the one that told me Mobil 1 10w30 is fine. [mod edit]

1bigmess · 04-26-2018, 08:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Funding Fun

Speaking of "automotive engineers"...a best friend of mine is actually an "automotive engineer" and works for GM in Lansing at the Cadillac Plant. He is the one that told me Mobil 1 10w30 is fine. [mod edit]

In what engine? We're not talking about a Cadillac in this thread.

Funding Fun · 04-26-2018, 08:04 AM

[mod edit] Read the thread...the answer lurks above.

Nut4speed · 04-26-2018, 02:42 PM

The "Cadillac engineer" is not the same engineer who designed the operating perimeters of 5.3l V8. Last I checked there are no 5.3L in any modern Cadillacs and last I checked GMs engines weren't designed in a Cadillac factory. He is likely a completely different type of engineer (and much lower down on the pay grade) than the ones who designed the 5.3L. Today's thin oils, while helping to improve mileage, also are designed to get inside the super tight tolerances today's engines have. Run 10w-30 in your 5.3, have an engine failure, and your likely stuck with a denied warranty claim.

Jay D. · 04-27-2018, 05:38 PM

No need to bash the Cad engineer, he stated 10/30 my owners manual for a 2010 GMC states 5/30. I don't think using 10/30 is going to kill your engine, in some circumstances it might be better.
Jay D.

Dropthejacks · 04-28-2018, 03:16 AM

Due to the tolerances being much tighter, the engine runs 0W-20. That's what it calls for, and that's what should be in it. The engine was designed for what you're using it for (light duty towing) and doesn't need a different oil because you are hooking a trailer to it. Will shifting to a slightly differing viscosity cause the engine to come through the hood? No, most manuals even list two oils for extreme temps. But you're best to go with the recommended and roll on.