Amsoil in 4th gen 4Runner

[PolkManiac]

I have a 2004 4Runner with the V6 engine. Do any of you guys use Amsoil in this engine?

How do you like it?

Do you still use the 5w30?

I'm thinking about switching from Mobil 1 and wanted to get some feedback before I do.

 

[Nuke]

Although I use Mobil1 in my '08 V6 4Runner also (and I tow frequently), I DO use Amsoil in my '07 Mustang V8. Amsoil, RoyalPurple and a few others are excellent "boutique" oils and rather expensive. Having been involved in oil analysis programs, my personal opinion is that any quality oil and filter, if changed at an appropriate frequency for that oil type (dino, synthetic blend or full synthetic) provides the same protection to your engine.

I have confidence in both Amsoil and Mobil1 that I perform oil changes at 8,000-10,000 mile frequencies. I'd go longer on the 4Runner if I didn't tow and longer on the Stang if I didn't run it so hard .

If you DO go with Amsoil AND their filter, you should be good for 15,000 miles or more. Check their website for info on their ASM oils and Ea filters.

 

[G.I.G.]

I've been running Mobil 1 5w30 since my first oil change on my '07 V8 4R. I am coming up on 30k miles on my 4R and want to switch to full synthetic in my diffs and transfer case. I will probably use Amsoil or maybe Mobil 1 when I do that. As Nuke mentioned, Amsoil and Royal Purple are expensive and sometimes hard to find. I can justify the Amsoil for the diffs and xfer case because that is not a fluid swap I do often, but for availability and price I chose Mobil 1 for the engine.

 

[climb.on]

I just put the Amsoil 5w30 in my V-8 engine last week. I am just using the factory filter though. I'm not sure how many miles I will go with this oil and the factory filter...maybe 10,000k?

I've also switched out all my gear oils to Amsoil. I used the Amsoil - severe gear oil. I guess I just feel more comfortable knowing that I can get a longer life out of both the gear oils and the engine oil. I tow as well. The extra money is worth it for me not to have to do it as often.

 

[G.I.G.]

Where the heck do you guys buy Amsoil from??? I just did a dealer search on the Amsoil website within 50 miles of my zip code (which would encompass the entire Denver Metro area) and three names came up. The names were private names and residences and one was a P.O. Box. Do you guys buy Amsoil online?

 

[Annoyed]

Many times is is sold through small businesses that operate out of their homes. I've been buying Amsoil of one such here for 9 years now.

Where the heck do you guys buy Amsoil from??? I just did a dealer search on the Amsoil website within 50 miles of my zip code (which would encompass the entire Denver Metro area) and three names came up. The names were private names and residences and one was a P.O. Box. Do you guys buy Amsoil online?

 

[ropeman]

another synthetic oil option

Another synthetic oil that is just as good as Amsoil is the Castrol Syntec (German Castrol) it is only available in 0w-30. Any other weight made by castrol syntec is not worth it. To make sure it is German castrol, In the front it will say "european formula" and in the back it will say made in Germany. Currently on one of my cars im using Amsoil series 3000 and with no problems and in my 4runner im using the German castrol syntec. Both are great oil.

 

[rjyhdc4]

Although I use Mobil1 in my '08 V6 4Runner also (and I tow frequently), I DO use Amsoil in my '07 Mustang V8. Amsoil, RoyalPurple and a few others are excellent "boutique" oils and rather expensive. Having been involved in oil analysis programs, my personal opinion is that any quality oil and filter, if changed at an appropriate frequency for that oil type (dino, synthetic blend or full synthetic) provides the same protection to your engine.

I have confidence in both Amsoil and Mobil1 that I perform oil changes at 8,000-10,000 mile frequencies. I'd go longer on the 4Runner if I didn't tow and longer on the Stang if I didn't run it so hard .

If you DO go with Amsoil AND their filter, you should be good for 15,000 miles or more. Check their website for info on their ASM oils and Ea filters.

For the average daily driver, there is virtually no reason to spend more than eight dollars a quart on engine oil. Royal Purple and Amsoil are racing oils and are made to lubricate the engine better at much higher cylinder temperatures/pressures. They will give you great protection from cold starts and will protect better for longer between changes. You would be fine using mobil 1 and changing it between 3k and 4k miles. That being said I would never go longer than 5k miles without changing the oil. If you do you are causing extra wear on the engine from all of the particles oil picks up as it runs through the engine. Keep in mind that the oil filter needs to be changed every 3k in almost every case because its ability to filter the oil well is significantly reduced after 3k miles.

 

[Nuke]

When I lived in PA I bought Amsoil from a local rep who was a friend of mine. Now in Kentucky, I simply order on-line. It's at my doorstep in about 2-3 days. I usually purchase enough for 2 oil changes to save a few $$'s on shipping.

rjyhdc4, I'm not sure what your basis is for your comments but I was involved in oil analysis in my previous job and changing synthetic oil at anything less than 8,000-10,000 miles is a total waste. Unless you perform oil analysis there's no credence to your comments regarding wear particles. Any decent filter will perform well at least for 5,000 miles and the Amsoil filters are rated for 25,000 miles. Wear particles are NOT the only determining factor on when to perform an oil change. The various "packages" added to the base stock need to be monitored for depletion and unless you really abuse your oil, the additives in synthetics will last well beyond 10,000 miles. Since the population of folks that actually monitor their oil is small, we lean toward conservatism. I'd put up money that the oil in either of my vehicles would still be suitable for continued use beyond 15,000 miles.

Your 3,000 mile filter and oil change recommendations may apply to dino oil but went out the window in the late 80's with regard to synthetics.

 

[RonMAIDEN]

Having been involved in oil analysis programs, my personal opinion is that any quality oil and filter, if changed at an appropriate frequency for that oil type (dino, synthetic blend or full synthetic) provides the same protection to your engine.

I totally agree with nuke.

I use Mobile 1 and a Puralator PureOne filer that I change every 8000 miles andf at 147k my 4Runner is running quite well according to my dealer machanic and has zero leaks and is running as good as my mom's '99 Limited which is at 90k right now.

I think it's more about time the oil is in the engine than miles but if I was putting 15k or so on my engine a year I would consider Amsoil but with my 10k a year or so I feel Mobile 1 does the job and I change it every 8k or 10 months whichever comes first.

I prefer M1 since it's easily available no matter where I'm at.

 

[Burt]

AmsOil is marketed by individuals. If you want, PM me for a dealer in Denver area. I buy from co-worker, he lives in Centenial and works in Tech Center.
I use the AmsOil 7,500 mile 5w30 and filter in my 2008 V6.
Good lube it is.

 

[rjyhdc4]

When I lived in PA I bought Amsoil from a local rep who was a friend of mine. Now in Kentucky, I simply order on-line. It's at my doorstep in about 2-3 days. I usually purchase enough for 2 oil changes to save a few $$'s on shipping.

rjyhdc4, I'm not sure what your basis is for your comments but I was involved in oil analysis in my previous job and changing synthetic oil at anything less than 8,000-10,000 miles is a total waste. Unless you perform oil analysis there's no credence to your comments regarding wear particles. Any decent filter will perform well at least for 5,000 miles and the Amsoil filters are rated for 25,000 miles. Wear particles are NOT the only determining factor on when to perform an oil change. The various "packages" added to the base stock need to be monitored for depletion and unless you really abuse your oil, the additives in synthetics will last well beyond 10,000 miles. Since the population of folks that actually monitor their oil is small, we lean toward conservatism. I'd put up money that the oil in either of my vehicles would still be suitable for continued use beyond 15,000 miles.

Your 3,000 mile filter and oil change recommendations may apply to dino oil but went out the window in the late 80's with regard to synthetics.

There are all kinds of ratings for oils and filters. The owner's manual says to change the oil every 8,000 miles but I'm not about to wait that long and let my engine get filled with sludge. If the amsoil filter is rated at 25k miles, why not just use that one? I hardly think that one has to perform oil analysis to experience the effects of waiting too long to change oil. I never said that wear particles are the only reason to change your oil. I was saying that the particles in oil after more than 5k miles of everyday driving is a good reason to change your oil at an interval much shorter than 10k miles. While driving habits do have a significant effect on how long one can go without an oil change, I don't think anyone should wait 25k miles without changing an oil filter. I'm not at all saying it will hurt your engine to go longer without changing the oil. I was just making the point that if you choose to run synthetic oil until all of the additives are depleted then there is a good chance you are reducing the advantages of using synthetic oil. In order to maintain the protection guaranteed by using synthetic oil, I would rather change it at a shorter interval. Everyone has their own opinions about changing their oil and thats why there are people who will argue with both of us that conventional oil is just as good as synthetic for an engine. Like I said, to each his own.

 

[KB084RUNNER]

I only use whatever synthetic oil is on Bogo sale or closeout. always 5w30 and Toyo filter. I always change oil & filter at 5000 miles. Right now I am running Qtorquepower 5w30 that was on closeout at WalMart for $9 for a 5 quart jug. So my oil change costs $16.

I do this with all my Toyotas never an issue.

 

[jroyal29]

I get wat rjyhdc4 is saying and i agree. just cuz its insured to 15k or watever means that u could leave and no serious harm would be done. but y chance it by letting it go to its limit. and like he said, running high performance oil doesn't really do anything for a runner cuz its made for high powered engines in extreme driving conditions. but if you got the money i guess its worth it. mobile 1 has worked for all my cars.

 

[NCSCOTT]

Lets do some simple math here. Lets assume 15k miles per year and a V-6. Yes I know the oil capacity is 5.5 US Quarts but 5 quarts puts you right in the middle of the full mark.

Mobil 1 5Qt jug Walmart = $26.00
1 case Toyota filters = $40.00 Shipped off Ebay, or $4/filter
1 Oil Change every 5K miles = $30
3 oil changes per year = $90

Retail prices online
Amsoil 0W-20 100% Synthetic Oil = $9.10/Qt or $45.50/5Qts
Amsoil AE-057 oil filter = $16.00
Estimated Shipping $10.00
Total =$71.50 for 1 oil change of equal or better protection for 15k miles.

That Still put you ahead $18.50 for the year plus 2 less days on your back in the driveway.

perfered customer/Dealer Prices
Amsoil 0W-20 100% Synthetic Oil = $7.00/Qt or $35/5Qts
Amsoil AE-057 oil filter = $12.15
6 Month perfered customer fee $10.00
Estimated Shipping $10.00
Total = $67.15 for 1 Oil change good for 15k miles

Now you are ahead $22.85 plus 2 less days on your back in the driveway.

Find a friend that is already an Amsoil dealer and willing to give it to you at his cost.
Amsoil 0W-20 100% Synthetic Oil = $7.00/Qt or $35/5Qts
Amsoil AE-057 oil filter = $12.15
Estimated Shipping $10.00
Total = $57.15 for 1 Oil change good for 15k miles

Now you are ahead $32.85 for the year plus 2 less days on your back in the driveway.

So it just keeps getting better!!!

3000 mile changes is a thing of the past no matter which oil you are using. dino or synthetic. The only people pushing that idea anymore are the quick oil change places that want your $40-$50 every 3000 miles.

 

[rjyhdc4]

Lets do some simple math here. Lets assume 15k miles per year and a V-6. Yes I know the oil capacity is 5.5 US Quarts but 5 quarts puts you right in the middle of the full mark.

Mobil 1 5Qt jug Walmart = $26.00
1 case Toyota filters = $40.00 Shipped off Ebay, or $4/filter
1 Oil Change every 5K miles = $30
3 oil changes per year = $90

Retail prices online
Amsoil 0W-20 100% Synthetic Oil = $9.10/Qt or $45.50/5Qts
Amsoil AE-057 oil filter = $16.00
Estimated Shipping $10.00
Total =$71.50 for 1 oil change of equal or better protection for 15k miles.

That Still put you ahead $18.50 for the year plus 2 less days on your back in the driveway.

perfered customer/Dealer Prices
Amsoil 0W-20 100% Synthetic Oil = $7.00/Qt or $35/5Qts
Amsoil AE-057 oil filter = $12.15
6 Month perfered customer fee $10.00
Estimated Shipping $10.00
Total = $67.15 for 1 Oil change good for 15k miles

Now you are ahead $22.85 plus 2 less days on your back in the driveway.

Find a friend that is already an Amsoil dealer and willing to give it to you at his cost.
Amsoil 0W-20 100% Synthetic Oil = $7.00/Qt or $35/5Qts
Amsoil AE-057 oil filter = $12.15
Estimated Shipping $10.00
Total = $57.15 for 1 Oil change good for 15k miles

Now you are ahead $32.85 for the year plus 2 less days on your back in the driveway.

So it just keeps getting better!!!

3000 mile changes is a thing of the past no matter which oil you are using. dino or synthetic. The only people pushing that idea anymore are the quick oil change places that want your $40-$50 every 3000 miles.

I must say that you know your simple math. All of your calculations look good to me. That being said I never said it wasn't cheaper to read the bottle and change the oil at the interval listed on there. What I said was if you change your oil with full synthetic every 10k or more and I change mine every 3-5k, my engine is going to last longer, run better, and require less maintenance over the life of the engine. Personally I don't see the point in spending 35 on a vehicle then trying to save 30 dollars a year by skimping on oil changes

 

[NCSCOTT]

What I said was if you change your oil with full synthetic every 10k or more and I change mine every 3-5k, my engine is going to last longer, run better, and require less maintenance over the life of the engine.

This is your OPINION. Which your entitled to. But opinions are like a$$holes and most stink.


I do not believe for one second that your engine will do any of those things any better than mine at any given mileage based on a 5000 mile OCI or a 15000 mile OCI when using an oil designed to change at that interval. There you go. That is my opinion. It may stink to.

I was stating fact about the cost.

The owner's manual says to change the oil every 8,000 miles

What Toyota owners manual are you reading?

Take a look at this thread lots more opinions here.

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/showthread.php?s=&threadid=674&perpage=15&pagenumber=1

 

[rjyhdc4]

This is your OPINION. Which your entitled to. But opinions are like a$$holes and most stink.


I don't think the oil was designed to be ran that long. The bottle states you can run the oil that long without it causing serious damage.So your opinion is that in those 10k extra miles your engine will endure no more wear than my engine with the oil being changed at a 5k mile oci? So again I ask, you spend 30k plus dollars on a vehicle then skimp on the maintenance to save 30 dollars a year at best?


About the owner's manual... I don't read it on a regular basis. I was rounding. :cheers: