Can Rotella Synthetic 15W-40 Heavy Duty Diesel Oil be Used in a 2013 Ford F-150 Gasoline Engine?
When it comes to using the proper motor oil in your vehicle, it's crucial to ensure that the oil meets the specific requirements of your engine. In the case of a 2013 Ford F-150, which is a gasoline engine, using a diesel oil, such as Rotella Synthetic 15W-40, requires a careful consideration of compatibility and operating conditions.
Understanding Compatibility
The compatibility of motor oils is determined by various factors, including the type of engine, the oil's specific API (American Petroleum Institute) ratings, and the operating conditions. The Rotella Synthetic 15W-40 is a high-quality synthetic diesel oil, and while it meets the API ‘S’ ratings that are often needed for diesel engines, it's important to understand the specific requirements of your vehicle's engine.
Engine Specifications Matter
Your vehicle's owner's manual is the definitive source for determining the appropriate motor oil. For the 2013 Ford F-150, it is recommended to use oils with viscosity ratings such as 5W-30 or 0W-20. While some diesel oils are versatile and can be used in both diesel and gasoline engines, it is generally not recommended to use 15W-40 in a 2013 Ford F-150 gasoline engine. Using 15W-40 can lead to lubrication issues and potential damage due to the viscosity being too high in certain conditions.
Why You Shouldn't Use 15W-40 in Cold Weather
Modern engines are designed to operate efficiently with the specific viscosity of oil recommended by the manufacturer. Using a viscosity that is too high, such as 15W-40, can lead to several issues. Firstly, the high viscosity oil may take too long to reach critical components like the bearings, especially in cold weather. This delay in lubrication can cause premature wear of components and other damage. Additionally, the bearing clearances in modern engines are often so tight that a viscosity that is too high can cause issues such as bearing galling or bearing cap fractures.
Real-World Examples and Training Center Observations
training centers around the world have observed that using oils with higher viscosity than recommended can lead to problems. For instance, the engines used in training centers often suffered damage due to the use of oils with a higher viscosity. In some cases, the tight bearing clearances in the engines were such that even a human hair between the bearings and the crankshaft could cause damage. This was observed in engines from Nissan, GM, and Ford training centers.
Suggested Oils for 2013 Ford F-150
For the 2013 Ford F-150, it is best to follow the manufacturer's recommendations. However, many mechanics and fleet owners report successful use of 15W-40 oil in engines with lower mileage or in high-mileage pushrod engines. For instance, Amsoil 15W-40 has been used with excellent results in various engines, including both diesel and gasoline engines.
Conclusion
To summarize, while the Rotella Synthetic 15W-40 is a high-quality diesel oil that can meet the requirements of some engines, it is not recommended for use in the 2013 Ford F-150 gasoline engine. The oil passage size and tight bearing clearances in this engine make it more susceptible to issues if the viscosity is too high. Always refer to your owner's manual for the specific oil specifications and viscosity ratings that are recommended for your vehicle. If you have concerns or need further advice, it is always best to consult with a qualified mechanic or the manufacturer's support team.