What type of oil does a 300 inline 6 take?

The Ford 300 inline-six, also known as the 4.9L, typically uses 5W-30 motor oil for normal operation. Depending on year, climate, and maintenance history, other weights may be appropriate. Always consult your owner’s manual or a Ford service bulletin for your exact year and configuration.

Overview of oil weight and specifications

Below are guidelines to help you choose the right oil weight and grade for a Ford 300 inline-six, along with notes on compatibility and service life.

Recommended oil viscosity by climate

Use this as a quick reference to pick a weight based on ambient temperature and operating conditions. Always refer to the owner's manual for definitive guidance.

• Cool to temperate climates (roughly freezing to below 40°F): 0W-30 or 5W-30 conventional or synthetic oil.


• Most climates and normal driving: 5W-30 (conventional or synthetic).


• Hot climates, heavy towing, or high-mileage engines: 10W-30 or 10W-40 may be used if your manual allows, but many owners stay with 5W-30 and monitor oil consumption and temperature.

When in doubt, start with 5W-30 and adjust based on oil consumption and engine temperature. Always ensure the oil meets current API and ILSAC specifications suitable for gasoline engines.

Oil specifications and maintenance tips

Quality oil specification and proper maintenance extend engine life. Here are key points to consider.

• API service level: Use oil meeting API SN or newer standards, with ILSAC GF-5 or newer where applicable.


• Detergent oils: Ensure the oil is a modern, detergent-type motor oil to keep engines clean and protect bearings.


• Conventional vs synthetic: Conventional oil is fine for many older Ford 300 engines, but synthetic or synthetic-blend oils can improve cold-start performance and longevity in severe conditions.


• Change intervals: Typical change intervals are 3,000–5,000 miles (or 5,000–7,500 miles for newer synthetic blends) under normal service; more frequent changes may be prudent in severe service or older, high‑mileage engines.

Always reset the oil change interval to reflect your driving style and climate, and follow a maintenance schedule from Ford for your year and model.

How to confirm the right oil for your exact vehicle

Since the 300 inline-six was produced across multiple decades and in several configurations (including truck, van, and aftermarket swaps), exact oil specifications can vary. To ensure accuracy, check:

• Your vehicle's owner’s manual or the maintenance schedule


• Ford's official service bulletins or VIN-specific documentation


• Labels on the engine or under the hood that specify recommended oil weight

Concluding: using the correct oil weight and specification tailored to your exact year and usage helps protect the engine and optimize performance for the Ford 300 inline-six.

Summary

For most Ford 300 inline-six engines, 5W-30 motor oil is the standard choice, with adjustments to weight based on climate, age, and service. Always confirm with the manual or a Ford service bulletin for your exact year and configuration. Using the right API-rated oil and adhering to proper change intervals will help keep the 4.9L engine running smoothly.

Should I use 10W30 or 15W40?

Choose 15W-40 for heavy-duty engines, hot climates, or when carrying heavy loads, as it provides better protection under high heat. Choose 10W-30 for modern diesel engines, cooler climates, or for better fuel economy, as it flows more easily at cold start-up. The best choice always depends on the specific engine's manufacturer recommendations, its design, and your operating conditions. 
When to choose 15W-40

• Heavy-duty use: Ideal for heavy-duty diesel engines. 
• Hot climates: Better suited for hot weather because it is thicker when hot. 
• Heavy loads: Provides robust protection for engines under heavy load. 

When to choose 10W-30

• Modern engines: Suitable for modern diesel cars and light trucks. 
• Cooler climates: Flows better in cold weather, which improves start-up protection. 
• Fuel efficiency: Offers better fuel economy due to less drag. 

Key takeaway

• Consult your owner's manual: Always check your vehicle or equipment's owner's manual for the manufacturer's specific recommendation, as this is the most important factor. 
• Consider your environment: Think about your typical climate and how you use the vehicle.
• Modern engines often prefer 10W-30: Many newer engines are designed to work best with thinner oils for improved efficiency, even those that might have used a heavier oil in the past. 

What kind of engine oil for a Honda Fourtrax 300?

The correct oil for a Honda Fourtrax 300 is 10W-40 4-stroke motorcycle oil, such as Honda GN4. The oil capacity is approximately 2.3 to 2.6 quarts after an oil and filter change. 

• Oil type: Use a 10W-40 oil specifically designed for 4-stroke engines with wet clutches. Genuine Honda GN4 is a recommended option, but other brands of 10W-40 ATV/motorcycle oil will also work. 
• Oil capacity: You will need about 2.3 to 2.6 quarts of oil to fill the engine after a full oil and filter change. 
• Filter: It is recommended to replace the oil filter during the oil change. 

What type of oil does a 300 take?

Our specific recommendation is API Certified SAE 5W-20 engine oil, either semi-synthetic or full synthetic.

What kind of oil do you put in a Ford 3000 tractor?

For a Ford 3000 tractor, use a 15W-40 diesel-rated engine oil for most conditions, though a 10W-30 is better for cold weather use. If it's a gasoline engine, still use a high-quality diesel engine oil, as the engine was designed to handle that. For the hydraulic and transmission fluid, a universal tractor hydraulic fluid (like THF) that meets the 134 spec is the best choice.
 
Engine oil

• Most conditions: 15W-40 diesel-rated engine oil. 
• Cold weather: 10W-30 engine oil is recommended. 
• Gasoline vs. Diesel: The engine was originally designed as a diesel, so a good quality diesel engine oil (like CI-rated) is a good choice even for a gasoline model. 
• Avoid: Do not use non-detergent oil. 

Hydraulic and transmission fluid 

• Use a universal tractor hydraulic fluid (THF). 
• Ensure the fluid meets the 134 spec (e.g., 134D). 
• Many premium brands, including those sold at tractor supply stores, offer products that meet this specification. 
• Stay away from fluids labeled "yellow bucket" or 303.