Is this a marketing gimmick or what? Even Mobil 1 has gotten in on the
act. They even offer a "Newer" vehicle formula to go with the high
mileage stuff. From what I have been reading, the differences do mainly
with the viscosity ranges and seal conditioners. The new vehicle
formulas have viscosities at the lower end of the range to promote fuel
economy while the older vehicle formulas go for the high range and the
seal conditioners to reduce oil consumption. Maybe the car manufacturers
are promoting this approach also to reduce emissions (oil consumption
fouls catalysts) and warranty claims.

For my experience, I have a 1999 motor home with the Ford Triton V-10.
It calls for 5w-30. I have used the Mobil 1 10w-30 since its first oil
change at ~3,000 miles. 2nd change at 6K, then 10K and every 5K after
that. Depending on use, I usually need to add a quart every 1,500 to
2,000 miles. In 2002, we made another NY to California road trip. On the
way back it was due for an oil change. The new Wal-Mart Super Center in
Las Vegas has an RV bay and they did the oil change for me. They used
the "High Mileage" formula Mobil 1 with a Fram Tough Guard filter at my
request. I made the 3,000 mile trip home without using any oil at all,
so there must be some difference unless the engine suddenly broke in at
40,000 miles. By the way, I was impressed with their price and service.
They had one tech qualified to drive motor homes, a 14 foot door to
handle them with a pit to do the service with out lifting it. They
placed towels over everything they worked near including the engine
access door. For $53 including tax, I got the Mobil 1 oil change
including the extra charge for 7 quarts of oil and the Tough Guard
filter. They also greased the front end and the drive shaft, and checked
the fluid in the rear diff along with the other fluids.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf
Of Debra Clark
Sent: Sunday, February 22, 2004 4:28 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: high mileage motor oil

Has anyone seen any data or have any personal experience that would lead
one to believe that the motor oils made for high mileage vehicles might
be worth the extra money?  Thanks to all in advance!

Debra
Santee, CA