Would you change the oil?

smkettner wrote:

Canadianxplorer wrote:
We are starting to see engine wear and failures, especially in regards to the timing chain stretch.

Help me understand how extended oil changes stretch a timing chain?

I don't read it as saying the oil has anything to do with the timing
chain stretch...just an added tidbit on this architecture. I thank him
for adding germane information to the discussion

It is you, smkiettner making that connection. Easy to see, as this
thread started out as engine oil change or not

This goes to another thread about small displacement forced fed vs
larger displacement with variable displacement. Both have similar
power curves and MPG. One is highly stressed and the other not

Turbo small displacement - displacement on demand- a winner?



Timing chain stretch, IIRC, is from over rev'ing and high throttle
settings (high rates of change) vs the sizing of the chain. They do
stretch over time, but from what Canadian said...think shorter time
than normal

For a timing chain to cause problems in such a short milage period is
something to keep an eye on. Wonder if there is enough room to put
in a larger chain (one more row). Hardened dowel or keyed?

To date, it appears that Ford did a decent job in beefing up the
various components and mitigation stuff (engine oil spray up towards
piston bottoms, etc)


Below quote is Canadianxplorer's complete post

Canadianxplorer wrote:
Hey everyone,

I am a ford Tech and have been for 24+years. I am replying to this topic because the OP has an Ecoboost. I have a 2012 Ecoboost and I change my oil too often, but that is just my preference and they way I have always treated my vehicles. I also change trans, diff, transfer case fluid, spark plugs and all the other stuff too soon.

The OLM is a convenience for the customer but now that ecoboosts are starting to see more miles/kms, I have some concerns.

We are starting to see engine wear and failures, especially in regards to the timing chain stretch. Most of the vehicles that are having problems in these areas also have been following the OLM and changing there oil every 16,000 to 20,000kms(10,000miles to 12,500miles roughly). Many of these vehicles are still under warranty coverage and that oil change interval as directed by the OLM is acceptable and I have not seen warranty denied because of it.

I just think this engine needs more frequent service. I keep my vehicles usually 10 years so yes I do over maintain them.

I think for the ecoboost a 5000 or 6000 mile oil change interval is better.

Some of this may be related to Canadian weather, but not sure about that.

Also, before anyone posts "I did 25,000mile oil changes and everything is great!" I am posting what I see often, longer oil change intervals on an ecoboost, seem to lead to more long term wear and problems, some before warranty runs out, some after.

Just wanted to put this out there

Thanks for reading