Is 10k oil change interval reasonable

[RangerGress]

My EcoD's life is probably a little more severe then usual. A lot of 10mi daily commutes and monthly tows of 7-16hrs roundtrip of a ~7500lb enclosed trailer. I sent an oil sample from my second oil change to Blackstone labs. The oil load had 10k miles on it and I wanted to know if I should change the oil more often. Oil was the dealer provided Pennzoil Euro LL stuff.

Blackstone report came back with Al, Fe, and Cu about 20% high, and TBN was fine. Their recommendation was to go 11k next time.

Sure, I'd rather that the metals were a little lower, but I don't think that 20% high is alarming. The significant thing was to learn that I don't have to fret about going the whole 10k miles on an oil load.

Also, it's nice that the first 4 oil changes are free.

 

[TFucili]

Being old-school, extended intervals used to really bug me, but now that they are specifying "boutique oils" and the cost of a regular LOF is sky high, I have come to the conclusion that if they write the spec, and are willing to warranty it then, by golly, I am going to follow the oil minder's advice. I don't sweat it anymore.

 

[JDancoe]

My experience in the past has been that the O/A on the first oil change was usually somewhat high numbers, that then dropped off with later oil samples, unless there was some sort of a problem. Be interesting to see what your second change numbers look like.

I agree with TFucili, if the factory will warranty the long milage oil changes, I'd go with it. Just make sure whatever oil you use does meet the engine manufacturer's specs.

Another thought; maybe adding a by-pass oil filter. I've used them for years, on all my vehicles, and they have been standard equipment on most HD trucks & equipment- seems like forever.

Oh, my wife and I should be picking up our new Ecodiesel tomorrow! Looking forward to swapping "war stories" with the rest of you folks.

Jack Dancoe

Jack Dancoe

 

[TDRGuy]

Blackstone labs told you the oil was good.
You have 4 more changes at no charge.
Enjoy an uncomplicated lifestyle.
Drive the truck and leave it alone.

DO NOT add triple bypass/filter dink systems to this truck unless you want to be your own warranty station and fix oil leaks all the time.

RP

 

[JDancoe]

My sentiments exactly.
I'm near 75 years old, was a professional mechanic for 45 years. Still enjoy tinkering on occasion, but I bought this truck pretty well equipped to start, so I'm am planing on avoiding any modifications beyond minor accessorizing- tonneau cover, mud flaps, etc. and possibly an auxiliary fuel tank of some sort. (I do like having additional fuel capacity when we travel with our RV.)
Thanks, Jack Dancoe