How much oil does a 1979 Ford 351w take?
Approximately 6 quarts.
Understanding the capacity of the 351W engine
The oil capacity for a 1979 Ford 351 Windsor can vary slightly based on the oil pan size and whether the oil filter is replaced during the service. In general, you should plan for roughly 5 to 6 quarts for a full oil change, with the exact amount becoming clear after you check the dipstick.
- Complete drain and replacement of the oil filter: about 6 quarts of oil to reach the full mark on the dipstick.
- Drain and refill without changing the filter: around 5 quarts may be sufficient to reach the full level.
- Pan size variations between different bodied trucks and cars from 1979 can shift the total capacity slightly; always verify with the dipstick after filling.
These figures reflect typical configurations for 1979-era Windsor engines used in both passenger cars and light-duty trucks. Your exact capacity may vary, so always confirm the level with the dipstick after adding oil.
Choosing the right oil and fill procedure
Oil viscosity recommendations from the era often centered on standard multi-viscosity oils. For a 351W of this vintage, 10W-30 was commonly used for normal driving in moderate climates, while 5W-30 could be preferred in colder conditions and 20W-50 in hot climates or heavy-use situations. Modern enthusiasts should use an oil that meets current API standards and follow the vehicle’s manual or a trusted shop manual for exact viscosity guidance.
Recommended oil viscosities for a 351W (typical guidance)
General guidelines, subject to climate and usage:
- Cold climates: 5W-30
- Standard driving in temperate climates: 10W-30
- Hot climates or heavy use: 20W-50
When in doubt, start with a conventional 10W-30 and adjust in subsequent changes based on observed oil pressure and engine temperature. Always use oil that meets or exceeds current API specifications.
Step-by-step oil change checklist
To ensure you replace the oil correctly on a 351W, follow these practical steps:
- Warm up the engine briefly, then shut it off and let the oil drain completely.
- Replace the oil filter with a new one appropriate for the 351W.
- Drain the old oil, reinstall the drain plug, and begin by adding about 4.5–5 quarts to start.
- Start the engine, run briefly, then shut off and allow the oil to settle. Check the dipstick and top off in small increments to reach the full mark.
Tip: Do not overfill the engine. Overfilling can cause foaming and potential engine damage. After adding oil, run the engine for a few minutes and recheck the level with the dipstick.
Summary
For a 1979 Ford 351W, plan for roughly 5–6 quarts of oil during a full change, with 6 quarts being a common target when replacing the filter. The exact amount depends on pan size and whether the filter is refreshed. Use the viscosity appropriate for your climate and driving conditions, and verify the final level with the dipstick after filling. Regular, correct oil changes help preserve the Windsor V8's performance and longevity.
