I finally got that first oil change completed. Just needed a little extra leverage to get that drain plug off (like everyone suggested).

If there is a thread out there about this, please direct me to it. My searches did not come up with anything.

The temperatures usually stay very warm where I live. Would there be any reason to consider 10W-30 or is that a no-no with this engine?

Also, should I be checking the oil level while it's hot for the proper amount? I used 6 quarts and it's at the full mark cold.

Thanks.

My opinion on oils is, while you can pick your favorite brand, NEVER get away from the recommended grades. They do plenty of hot weather testing.

The difference between warm and cold levels should be negligible.
I put 6.25 quarts in mine....remember you need to run it to fill the filter before you check the level, even if you filled it before you installed it (which is not a bad idea).

There are many different views on viscosity. My standard is that I stay with recommended (or 5W-30 - even when the recommended is 5W-20) for at least the first 30K+ miles. Then I make a move to 10W-30 for the summer temps. I always use Mobile 1 and the difference in viscosity of the 5W and 10W is almost non-existent. My own take is that the tolerances in today's engines are pretty darn tight, but I also realize that the thinner the oil, the better the EPA mileage ratings . . . so I don't necessarily always "trust" the recommended viscosity - my Honda Odyssey for example calls for 5W-20, and I use 5W-30; again probably not a big deal but makes me feel better and doesn't void the warranty...

If most engine wear occurs during start-up, then a thinner oil is the way to go. When Ford went over to 5W-20 they did extensive testing and found this to be true by a narrow margin, while getting the added benefit of better gas mileage. However, my belief is that even after 200K miles, the difference among a 5W-30, 10W-30 or 5W-20 on engine wear will be nearly nonexistent and will not play a part in the demise of the vehicle.

Thanks for the comments guys. That's what I needed to hear.

Marshall