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What kind of oil does a 6.0 Ford Excursion take?

The 6.0L Excursion diesel requires synthetic 5W-40 engine oil that meets Ford’s WSS-M2C171-F1 specification (CK-4/CJ-4 depending on year). This grade provides proper lubrication, cooling, and protection for Ford’s diesel engine design.


Key oil specification for the 6.0L Power Stroke


Below are the essential requirements to ensure proper lubrication and protection for Ford’s 6.0L diesel engine.



  • 5W-40 synthetic diesel engine oil

  • Meets Ford specification WSS-M2C171-F1

  • API CK-4 or CJ-4 depending on model year

  • Approved brands include Motorcraft 5W-40 Diesel Engine Oil, and other major-brand oils that meet the same spec (e.g., Shell Rotella T6 5W-40 CK-4/CJ-4, Amsoil 5W-40 Diesel, Valvoline Premium Blue 5W-40 CK-4/CJ-4)


Using the correct oil type and spec supports cylinder-wall lubrication, turbocharger reliability, and injector longevity in the 6.0 Power Stroke.


Climate considerations and maintenance guidance


Most 6.0L Excursions run well with 5W-40 synthetic in a wide range of climates, but always verify the model-year-specific Ford spec in your owner’s manual. If your vehicle’s history predates the CK-4/CJ-4 transition, use the oil grade and spec recommended for that period and consult a Ford service advisor if you’re unsure.


Practical tips for oil selection and service


To help you navigate oil choices and maintenance, consider these practical guidelines.



  • Choose a brand-name 5W-40 synthetic diesel oil that explicitly meets WSS-M2C171-F1 and CK-4/CJ-4 requirements.

  • Prefer Motorcraft 5W-40 Diesel Engine Oil for strict Ford compatibility, or equivalent oils from reputable brands that meet the spec.

  • Always align the oil to your specific model year and consult the owner’s manual or a Ford dealer for any year-by-year caveats.


Following these guidelines helps ensure the engine remains properly lubricated under typical and demanding driving conditions.


Summary


For a Ford Excursion with the 6.0L Power Stroke, the recommended oil is synthetic 5W-40 diesel oil that meets Ford WSS-M2C171-F1, with API CK-4/CJ-4 compliance depending on year. Use a reputable brand (Motorcraft is a dependable option) and verify year-specific specifications in your manual to maintain optimal performance and protection.

Can you use 10w30 in a 6.0 powerstroke?


15w40 is the recommended oil for your 6.0, 5w40 for extremely cold winters. 10w30 will not provide the heavy duty protection either of those recommended oils due. If you truck is only a street queen then by all means run 10w30.



What kind of oil does a 2005 Ford Excursion 6.0 take?


The recommended oil for a 2005 Ford Excursion with a 6.0L engine is 15W-40 diesel engine oil for temperatures above 30∘F30 raised to the composed with power cap F30∘𝐹. For colder conditions, use 10W-30 between -10∘Fnegative 10 raised to the composed with power cap F−10∘𝐹 and 30∘F30 raised to the composed with power cap F30∘𝐹, or 5W-40 or 5W-30 below 30∘F30 raised to the composed with power cap F30∘𝐹. The oil must meet the Ford specification WSS-M2C171-F1 for proper wear protection. 
Oil type and viscosity

  • Above 30∘F30 raised to the composed with power cap F30∘𝐹: 15W-40
  • -10∘Fnegative 10 raised to the composed with power cap F−10∘𝐹 to 30∘F30 raised to the composed with power cap F30∘𝐹: 10W-30
  • Below 30∘F30 raised to the composed with power cap F30∘𝐹: 5W-40 or 5W-30
  • Below 0∘F0 raised to the composed with power cap F0∘𝐹: 0W-30 

Key specifications
  • Ford Specification: Always use an oil that meets the Ford specification WSS-M2C171-F1. Ford recommends this over oils that meet the CK-4 standard to ensure proper wear protection for the 6.0L engine. 
  • Oil Capacity: The engine requires 15 quarts of oil, including the filter. 
  • Towing: For heavy-duty towing in hot weather, some experts recommend a 10W-30 oil to balance protection and flow. 



How much oil does a 2004 Ford Excursion 6.0 take?


15 quarts
15 quarts (with filter). When refilling, remove dipstick to provide adequate venting and allow oil to flow into crankcase.



What oil does a 6.0 V8 take?


5W-30 (All TEMPS) - SAE 5W-30 is preferred. Capacity: 6 quarts (with filter).


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.