1999 3.0 oil usage

[Jason H]

Hey my 3.0 litre 5L hilux is using close to about half a dipstick of oil between changes is this normal or do I need to get a rebuild , dosent blow smoke , 298 thousand Kms

[Manxman]

keep it topped up and keep watching for increases. Start saving cash for repair/replacement. It's not bad, but it's got to be kept full, partic under loads or in hi temps. It will prob run better and better as it wears, because it's starting to run on sump oil. DON"T run low, or out!!! It needs to be near full to keep the recirculation rate modest, and that allows the oil to cool better. I suggest you now change oil filter with oil @ 5000km intervals until rebuild. A good commercial rebuild is abt $4K-$5K + fuel pump, avoid $3K jobs-they've missed things or used cheap parts. DIY is much cheaper. Beware of overheating and head troubles until it's fixed-they are common abt now on those engines,, but can be avoided if you're careful.

[Jason H]

what's a good oil I've always taken it to a mechanic ? I know how to do it tho just never been bothered

[Manxman]

Penrite HPR diesel of whaterver weight you like, Shell helix/Valvoline ok too

[Jason H]

with regular servicing how many Kms will these engines do ??