I will have 1,500+ on my '00 Convertible before the next service interval. Likely the last service before I park it in the garage, cover it up and put it to sleep for the winter. I was planning to make the change over to synthetic for the rear end, manual transmission, power steering and motor at that time. I have the 3.8L V6, 5 speed manual and traction control rear end.

I was discussing this with my dealer the other day when I was in having my '93 Taurus Wagon serviced, which I have been running synthetics in since about 2,000-3,000 miles (now have 76,000+ - I provide them with the synthetics and they use my stuff for oil/filter changes, ATF, greases, etc., which they have done for some time without issue).

They indicated they had no issue with changing over the power steering, manual transmission or the rear end (they noted the need to add the Ford friction modifier to the rear end - the synthetic is compatible with it, I checked). They did say that they recommended waiting to change over on the motor, as past experience for them has determined that the 3.8L V6 really needs 6,000-8,000 to be fully broken-in and have everything in the motor seated properly. The owners manual says break-in should take no more than 1,500 miles.

Anyone out there have experience to shed on this and/or advice to offer on whether I should go along with them on this or tell them to change it over to the synthetic motor oil too, regardless of their opinion on the issue?

I should add that I have a great business relationship with my dealer. All of their advice to date with both the Taurus and the Mustang has been spot-on right. This opinion, on the other hand, is the first time they've said something that just doesn't seem to add up to me.

I thought the synthetic would offer better motor lubrication/protection during the winter storage period (particularly during startup if its been setting a while, as I was planning to use a 0W-30), since I only intend to start it up once or twice a month and run it around the block a few times if the roads are dry and clean until next Spring.

Thanks all - Joe C.

I really have no information for your direct questions. But I can relate this to you.

I've known guys who have purchased used cars with less than 20K on them, and they immediately change out the fluids to synthetics.

I've also known guys who have purchased brand new cars, driven them off of the lot, and taken them directly to a shop to have the fluids changed to synthetics.

They swear by the synth fluids, and say the sooner you can get them into the car, the better.

I'm not sure what I would do, if I were you.

Hope I didn't muddy the water for you.

1) Like Stewart said. Go Synthetic early and often.

2) Wait til your break-in period is up, then switch.

I have put synthetics in mine at first chance, but my last 3 vehicles have been pre-owned and already broken in.

There's no question about going to the synthetics, I'm been convinced of their merits on my other cars. I even got myself set up as an Amsoil dealer so I could buy it myself for my own use at dealer cost.

I am most interested in seeing some more comments about whether I should go ahead and change the motor over at 1,500 miles anyway, or wait until 6,000-8,000 as the dealer suggested and for the reason they noted.

Can anyone out there speak from experience with the 3.8L V6 that can either validate or refute the dealer's position with some level of confidence? -or- If there's an experienced owner, mechanic, restorer, or engine builder that would be willing to share their thoughts on a general level, that would be really appreciated too.

I just want to do the right thing for my new baby and do it at the right time, so I know it'll be around a good long time.