Different Engine Oil Type for Latina America (heat, 4.7L)

[rockandroll]

Hi Folks,

I'm at Panama Passage in Panama City and am due for an oil change. I was wondering if I should stick to the 5w30 (or close to it) oil weight?

On the oil filler cap it says to use 5w30 for optimum cold weather performance. Since I'll be in Latin America for the next 5k miles, cold weather isn't, well, much of an issue at all.

5w30 is even difficult to find so I figure there is a better type to be using down here. Your synthetic options are limited, but 10w40 is one of the few you can get easily.

 

[Owyhee H]

If you can get 10W30 I would go that route before the 10W40. You want your operating temp oil to be 30W, that is what your engine was designed for. The operating temperature should be the same if your cooling system is working properly. Your engine was designed and specified for 30 weight when hot, I think the Toyota engineers know what they are doing. That being said, I don't think you will do any damage running the 10W40.

I wish I had the same daily decisions as you......

 

[rockandroll]

If you can get 10W30 I would go that route before the 10W40. You want your operating temp oil to be 30W, that is what your engine was designed for. The operating temperature should be the same if your cooling system is working properly. Your engine was designed and specified for 30 weight when hot, I think the Toyota engineers know what they are doing. That being said, I don't think you will do any damage running the 10W40.

I wish I had the same daily decisions as you......

That's right, the cooling system hasn't been budging past it's regular mark. This makes perfect sense. I will stick with the 30 weight. Thanks for your help!

 

[Quill]

Check your owners manual. Personally Ii would use synthetic for your journeys. It would last even if you went extra miles on it. I would assume they at least sell Castro oil. Check for someone selling racing supplies.