Best Oil for 7.3 Powerstroke

Diesel engines assume high loads and operate in difficult conditions, so the right oil can significantly extend the life of the engine, as well as provide reliable protection for all important systems. Best oils for 7.3 Powerstroke always have high antioxidative properties. They effectively eliminate combustion products and create a reliable protective lubricating film. This reduces engine wear and improves vehicle performance. From this review, you will understand how to choose the right 7.3 Powerstroke engine oil from the main features of suitable oils.

Many engine oil manufacturers use purely synthetic compounds that show greater stability at heavy loads. Semi-synthetic oils are good for their protective properties but require more frequent replacement, which is not always appropriate.

The best known and long-established companies on the market are Ford (Motorcraft), Mobil 1, and Delo, but other manufacturers also offer excellent products at affordable prices. Let’s get into details!


List of Top-Rated Best Oil for 7.3 Powerstroke


PhotoProductDetails
Genuine Ford Fluid XO-15W40-5QSD SAE 15W-40 Super Duty Diesel Motor OiGenuine Ford Fluid XO-15W40-5QSD
SAE 15W-40 Super Duty Diesel Motor Oil
Shell Rotella T5 Synthetic Blend 15W-40 Diesel Engine OilShell Rotella T5 Synthetic Blend 15W-40
Diesel Engine Oil
HEADLIGHTSDEPOT FR348-4CMobil 1 112786 Delvac 1300 Super 15W-40
Diesel Engine Oil
Lucas Oil 10299 SAE 15W-40 CJ-4 Synthetic Motor OilLucas Oil 10299 SAE 15W-40 CJ-4
Synthetic Motor Oil
Cummins 3265336 Onan SAE 15W-40 OilCummins 3265336 Onan SAE 15W-40 Oil
Delo 400 SDE SAE 15W-40 Motor OilDelo 400 SDE SAE 15W-40 Motor Oil
Valvoline Premium Blue SAE 15W-40 Diesel Engine OilValvoline Premium Blue SAE 15W-40
Diesel Engine Oil

Reviews of the Best Oil for 7.3 Powerstroke


Genuine Ford Fluid XO-15W40-5QSD SAE 15W-40
Super Duty Diesel Motor Oil – 5 Quart Jug

Genuine Ford Fluid XO-15W40-5QSD SAE 15W-40  Super Duty Diesel Motor Oil - 5 Quart Jug

Motorcraft Super-Duty Diesel Motor Oil is made of a high-tech base and is a semi-synthetic option, which contains both synthetic and mineral components. This product is designed for high-power diesel engines and is not suitable for engines on gas. The oil is sold at an affordable price and meets all Ford specs for 7.3 Powerstroke engines.

The SAE 15W-40 mark on the gallon indicates that we have all-season oil. It allows you to start the engine fast and make it fully functional in the winter season. The minimum temperature allowed in this case is -4F. The manufacturer recommends using oil at temperatures down to 19.4F because this is when the oil protects the engine in the most effective way. At high temperatures, the kinematic viscosity of the liquid substance is within 12.5-16.3 units. This indicates that the oil will evenly cover the inside of the engine and create a protective film even at high temperatures when the fluidity increases significantly. Ford 15W-40 oil has the highest viscosity, compared to other 7.3 engine oils, which requires better maintenance due to the long period of operation.

The highest density of the oil is obtained not at the minimum temperature mark but at 59F. However, the oil will solidify at around -31F, and the engine will no longer be able to rotate the crankshaft then, too. Based on this, you can understand that this oil is best for moderate climates and powerful diesel engines.

Pros

  • Genuine Ford fluid
  • All-seasonal oil
  • Maintains viscosity at high temperatures
  • Provides full motor protection against corrosion

Features

  • Manufacturer: Ford
  • Volume: 4.73 liters
  • Weight: 9.4 pounds
  • Made in the USA

Ford branded engine oil is supplied in special 4.7-l gallons. The gallons are red in color and have a special shape, convenient for pouring oil. Genuine Ford oil provides reliable protection for your 7.3 Powerstroke.

Why the minimum temperature allowed is -4F, and the manufacturer does not recommend using the oil at temperatures below 19.4F?

At the minimum temperature, you can start the engine, and it will be able to run the vehicle, however, due to increased density and viscosity, the oil loses some of its properties. Therefore, the recommended temperature is 19.4 degrees. Under these conditions, the oil retains its best physical properties and provides exceptional protection of the engine interior.


Shell Rotella T5 Synthetic Blend 15W-40 Diesel Engine Oil
(1 Gallon, Single Pack)

Shell Rotella T5 Synthetic Blend 15W-40 Diesel Engine Oil (1 Gallon, Single Pack)

Shell Rotella T5 is a unique product, which combines synthetic base oils and advanced additives, showing high efficiency in moderate climates. The oil is designed specifically for high-performance engines that consume large amounts of fuel and operate at high temperatures. This product not only protects the engine but also has several important features.

The oil reduces soot content, allowing you to significantly improve your vehicle’s exhaust emissions. Shell Rotella T5 also has enhanced antioxidative properties and protects the inside from corrosion, which is especially important when using biodiesel. As for the oil’s temperature specs, it has sufficient density and viscosity at high temperatures, and therefore, can be used in powerful trucks and even agricultural machinery. The minimum temperature mark for starting the engine is -4F. At cold starts, the oil retains its fluidity and allows for improved fuel economy. If we take the CK-4 standard specs, the oil significantly reduces engine wear by almost 40%, compared to other oils.

Pros

  • Reduced soot content in the exhaust
  • Enhanced antioxidative properties (especially with biodiesel)
  • Reduced fuel consumption at cold start
  • Exceeds CK-4 standard specs

Features

  • Manufacturer: Shell Rotella
  • Volume: 3,785 liters
  • Weight: 7.68

In this way, Shell Rotella T5 Synthetic Blend 15W-40 Diesel Engine Oil retains its viscosity at low and high temperatures, helps reduce fuel consumption during cold starts, and provides consistent engine protection when using any diesel fuel. Shell Rotella T5 gallons have a capacity of 3.8 liters per gallon, thus, a full 7.3 Powerstroke oil change will require several gallons.

How much oil will I need for my 7.3 Powerstroke (full oil replacement)?

You will need 15 quarts of engine oil, i.e. 4 gallons for complete replacement.


Mobil 1 112786 Delvac 1300 Super 15W-40 Diesel Engine Oil 4 Gallon Pack

Mobil 1 112786 Delvac 1300 Super 15W-40 Diesel Engine Oil 4 Gallon Pack

Mobil 1 Delvac 1300 engine oil is a technological product designed specifically for a variety of high-performance automotive and industrial applications. This oil is successfully used in agricultural and industrial spheres. It has a number of properties that can exceed various competitive offers. The 15W-40 mark indicates oil’s temperature properties. It solidifies at -16.6F, though, at -4F, it still allows you to start the engine. However, extreme loads at -4F are not recommended.

Delvac 1300 Gallon 15W40 Super Diesel is all-season engine oil, which is perfect for moderate climates. The oil can withstand high temperatures (the flashpoint is at 428F). Since most engine operating temperatures do not exceed the 212F mark, the oil perfectly retains its physical properties and viscosity, with a kinematic index of 14.4. The composition of the oil has the high antioxidative ability, as it has a solid base and a special set of additives. The oil reduces particulate matter and eliminates other elements, generated by combustion and friction processes.

Pros

  • Multi-seasonal oil
  • High antioxidative capacity
  • Improved engine protection
  • Involves special additives
  • Reduces harmful engine deposits

Features

  • Manufacturer: Mobil 1
  • Volume: 3,785 liters
  • Weight: 32.2 lbs

The set includes 4 branded 3.8-liter gallons of Mobil 1 Delvac 1300 oil. This capacity is enough for a complete 7.3 Powerstroke oil replacement. Additionally, the oil does not need to be frequently changed because it is basically synthetic compounds, which are very durable and have high stability at extreme temperatures.

Is the oil suitable for vehicles with turbocharged engines?

Yes, this oil is designed for high-powered vehicles that may or may not have a turbine.


Lucas Oil 10299 SAE 15W-40 CJ-4 Synthetic Motor Oil
1 Gallon Jug

Lucas Oil 10299 SAE 15W-40 CJ-4 Synthetic Motor Oil
1 Gallon Jug

Lucas Oil 10299 SAE 15W-40 CJ-4 Synthetic Motor Oil is an ideal solution for heavy trucks and buses, produced a couple of decades ago. The oil has a unique composition and is fully synthetic, which gives the old engine a new life and keeps it alive for longer, without frequent oil changes. It’s worth saying that this oil is also suitable for systems that use additional technologies for processing and reduction of exhaust gases.

Viscosity, as the most significant indicator in this case, is 14.6, which is suitable for high engine loads. At high temperatures, the oil retains the necessary consistency, density, and fluidity to provide perfect engine interior protection. According to the manufacturer, the oil solidifies at -38.2F but allows you to start the engine at -4F. Thus, Lucas Oil 15W-40 CJ-4 is a multi-season type of oil, which shows stability at different temperatures and provides reliable engine protection.

Pros

  • Supports exhaust after-treatment systems
  • Great oil stability at high temperatures
  • Long engine (and oil) service life
  • Perfect solution for engines with high RPMs

Features

  • Manufacturer: Lucas Oil
  • Kinematic viscosity: 14.6
  • Volume: 1 gallon
  • Weight: 6 pounds
  • Made in the USA

Lucas Oil SAE 15W-40 CJ-4 is a great lubricant for powerful 7.3 Powerstroke engines. The oil is supplied in a branded grey gallons and has a standard 3.8-l capacity. By using this oil, you eliminate the need to change it every season and ensure that your engine runs smoothly all the time.

Can I mix 15W-40 CJ-4 with 5W-30?

Mixing oils is not recommended, as it can lead to the formation of harmful deposits that can damage certain engine elements or lead to overall premature engine wear.


Cummins 3265336 Onan SAE 15W-40 Oil – 1 Quart

Cummins 3265336 Onan SAE 15W-40 Oil

Cummins OnaMax 15W-40 oil is a universal product for powerful engines. It’s used in pickups, trucks, and other vehicles that need high-quality protection. Cummins OnaMax is fully synthetic and stable at high temperatures. The oil retains its viscosity when heated and also stays fluid at low temperatures. The minimum allowable temperature for this oil is -4F.

Antioxidizing properties make this oil outstand among other options. The oil can be used with biodiesel, plus, when heated, the oil protects the engine from corrosion, efficiently eliminating all decomposition products during combustion. The product has been developed especially for engines with high RPMs and is perfect for 7.3 Powerstroke. Reduced wear, reliable protection, without the need for frequent replacement, are the main benefits of Cummins OnaMax 15W-40.

Pros

  • High-quality synthetic oil
  • Specifically designed for high-performance engines
  • Full engine protection at high temperatures
  • Strong antioxidizing properties

Features

  • Manufacturer: Cummins
  • Volume: 1 quarter
  • Weight: 1.85 pounds
  • Made in the USA

Cummins OnaMax is an excellent option for providing reliable protection of powerful engines. Genuine oil has strong lubricating and anti-corrosive properties. The standard volume for such oils is 1 quarter, and it’s supplied in branded grey gallons.

How many liters are in one set?

This oil is supplied in 1-quarter gallons, which equals 0,946 liters


Delo 400 SDE SAE 15W-40 Motor Oil – 1 Quart Bottle

Delo 400 SDE SAE 15W-40 by Chevron is perfectly suitable for powerful truck engines. The product provides additional protection against friction and oxidation processes, which can lead to premature engine wear. Thus, this oil ensures proper engine operation, reduces harmful particle formation, and reduces friction effect. The oil retains its fluidity at low temperatures as well as the necessary viscosity when heated. The strongest feature of Delo 400 is its temperature stability – the oil can be used at the lowest temperatures down to -4F.

According to the manufacturer, the oil meets all the requirements and wear standards, and even exceeds them. This means that it significantly extends the life of the engine. Moreover, it does not need to be changed frequently, as it’s has a synthetic base, made using a special technology. It can be used with new exhaust gas recirculation systems and with fuels that have low sulfur content.

Pros

  • Exceeds various protection standards for this type of oil 
  • Provides significant wear reduction
  • Suitable for low sulfur fuels
  • Features ISOSYN Advanced Technology
  • Suitable for engines with gas recirculation systems
  • Best OEM viscosity grade for diesel engines

Features

  • Manufacturer: Chevron
  • Kinematic viscosity: 14.6
  • Volume: 1 quarter
  • Weight: 1.9 pounds

Delo 400 15W-40 operates at various high and low-temperature conditions, which means that the engine becomes immune to temperature changes. When heated, the oil still retains its properties. It’s best used in 4-stroke engines with high RPMs, as well as in industrial diesel equipment.

Where is this oil produced?

The oil is produced by Chevron, located in San Ramon, Ca, USA.


Valvoline Premium Blue SAE 15W-40 Diesel Engine Oil
1 GA, Case of 3

Valvoline Premium Blue 15W-40 is a universal engine oil for all seasons, which supports the engine and reduces its wear. The special chemical composition allows reducing oxidation processes at high temperatures and eliminates the possibility of corrosion in the engine. The oil is resistant to extreme temperatures. It retains viscosity and, therefore, provides high-quality and uniform lubrication of the necessary elements. Valvoline Premium Blue effectively removes particles and combustion products and is a perfect solution for emission-treatment-equipped diesel engines.

Valvoline Premium Blue does not require frequent replacement and reliably protects old truck engines. This product significantly exceeds the main factory standards and specs, ensuring complete engine protection and its smooth operation.

Pros

  • Provides effective removal of oxidizing processes
  • Does not overheat and maintains proper engine temperature
  • Protects EGR and DPF diesel engines
  • Eliminates soot and other combustion compounds

Features

  • Manufacturer: Valvoline
  • Kinematic viscosity: 14.8
  • Volume: 3,8 liters
  • Weight: 24 pounds

Valvoline Premium Blue is the right choice for a powerful vehicle that requires oil change. This oil can be easily used in old vehicle engines. It ensures sufficient resistance to extreme loads and provides proper protection in all weather conditions.

How long will it take to change the oil in a 7.3 Powerstroke?

As always, this directly depends on your skills. Usually, the procedure takes about 30-50 minutes.


Conclusion


As a result, 7.3 Powerstroke engines should be filled with 15W-40 in moderate climates. This type of oil guarantees stability when heated and maintains the necessary level of fluidity at low temperatures. Despite the fact that most oils should be changed regularly, fully synthetic products can delay this procedure. The best synthetic oils are produced by Lucas Oil and Shell Rotella. Other oils are also good in certain cases, e.g. industrial applications or new engines with advanced exhaust treatment technologies.

If you want to prolong the life of your diesel engine and ensure its full protection, choose the right type of oil, and replace it in time. As for the volumes, changing the oil in a 7.3 Powerstroke will require about 14 liters of oil. Thus, make sure to buy your oil in the required volume, produced by one manufacturer.


Frequently asked question


What is the best oil to use in a 7.3 Powerstroke?

The best oil for 7.3 Powerstroke engines is 15W-40, as it’s designed for high loads and has improved stability at all temperatures. This type of oil retains its viscosity when heated to the maximum and also stays fluid at the lowest temperatures. This allows you to start the engine at -4F. When choosing your oil, pay attention to famous manufacturers. The best product for 7.3 Powerstroke engines is by Shell Rotella and Valvoline. It’s also worth paying attention to the genuine oil from Motorcraft (Ford), which is created specifically for high-performance diesel engines.

What oil does a 7.3 Powerstroke take?

The most optimal oil for 7.3 Powerstroke is marked 15W-40 or 5W-40. Choose wisely, depending on your engine loads as well as climatic conditions. 5W-40 oils show improved fluidity at low temperatures, but 15W-40 oils are more versatile and practical.

What oil is recommended for Powerstroke engines?

Powerstroke diesel engines work best with universal, multi-seasonal oils that provide protection at both low and extremely high temperatures. Purely synthetic oils are the best, but semi-synthetic versions also show high efficiency, although they need to be changed more often. 15W-40 or 5W-40 branded oils from proven manufacturers ensure exceptional protection for Powerstroke engines.

How often should you change oil in a 7.3 Powerstroke?

Oil replacement in diesel engines is more frequent if you use semi-synthetic oils. For this reason, it makes sense to use pure synthetic oils in a 7.3 Powerstroke after 6,000 miles. Regular oil needs to be changed already at 3,000 miles if we talk about powerful diesel engines.


Editorial Staff

Add comment