leolexus

from toyotechs.com

Product Notice: V-6 1-MZ Engines
RE: Sludge-o-matic

Affected Models:
1994 to Present, V-6 engines in Camry, Avalon, Highlander, Sienna and Lexus models ES300 and RX300

The Problem: Somehow, because of the way the 1-MZ engine runs, oil is whipped with heat, creating sludge. The result is a thick black muck that will destroy your engine. The factory calls it 'gelling.'

The Solution: Change your oil often! The manufacturer recommends an oil change every 7,500 miles! This might be fine for some engines, but not for the 1-MZ. We strongly advise changing oil every three to four thousand miles.

Why would the manufacturer recommend such long intervals between oil changes? It is a marketing 'game' between manufacturers to lure buyers with lower projected costs for yearly maintenance. But with these engines, it will cost the consumer. As a result, factory warranties are being extended for newer model engines but guess what! You have to provide proof of oil changes at the recommended intervals. Toyotechs, by the way, can always provide you with service records for all work performed here!

Sooner

been discussed many times change your oil and you will be fine

gene_n_ga

I change oil every 3 months in my wife's RX and my LS400. I use one quart of Marvel Mystery Oil at every change. Marvel will neutralize acids from condensation, prevent crankcase dilution, and prevent sludge. Have been using it for decades in my boats and 92 SC400 (140k). Had my CorrectCraft ski boat to flood, mechanic ran Marvel thru it to flush and dry out, had it running again in 24 hours, no further problems. Also add 4 ounces to every 10 gals of gas, keeps upper cylinders lubricated and cleans fuel system and prevents carbon buildup. Great product. Can buy at Pep Boys for $12.00 a gallon. (red plastic jug). Good insurance...

parula

Gene, how do you change the filter??

It is in such an awkward inaccessible location I can't see how to remove it without dismantling half the front end.

ederny

1) From the top is the hardest, but you don't have to get under the vehicle. The trick here is to get a good light to work with down there and a must is an end cap filter wrench to fit over the end with a 2 inch extension and 3/8 ratchet drive.

2) A bit easier is to remove the plastic cowling under the radiator right in front, about 8 screws. You have to reach up to get at the filter, but a bit easier than from the top.

GL

BTW - Sludge-O-Matic? Ok, I'll change oil and filter every 3kmi. Got a'hold of my brother in Ft. Worth [a Toyota master mechanic for over 10 years] he confirms all this gelling stuff. However, he added the failure of the engine is actually caused by "oil starvation" especially at higher speeds. This is due to the gel clogging the screen in the oil pan for the oil pump pick up. As the screen clogs, oil flow required at higher RPM can't flow through it fast enough to provide enough oil for the engine. Oil starvation of the bearings, cams, valves, etc. occurs. His recommendation is to check and clean this screen at 100k regardless if you changed oil every 3k or not. With synthetic, it's probably not necessary.