I have a 1999 Ranger, 3.0, with 216,000 miles on it. What is everyone's opinion on using oil with zinc additives? I have heard it is beneficial in slowing wear in high mile engines. I change oil and filter every 3,000 miles, using a good grade filter.

 

Mobil1 oil, mobil1 filter. Can't go wrong.

 

ZDDP, Zinc Dialkyl Dithiophosphate, was used for many many years as an oil additive.

It does reduce wear on some metal to metal surfaces, usually less cam/lifter wear was most noticeable from the valve spring pressure.

But this was from many many years ago, totally different systems and metals were being used.

ZDDP does effect Cat Converters, shortens life, and effects fish if oil is dumped, which is why it was/is being phased out, oil makers know it isn't needed as much, if at all, anymore

If you have a pre-80's engine then I might use it.

But in my opinion it won't help engines made after that.

 

If I were in your shoes, I'd skip the zinc for the reasons RonD said, and instead lay down my money for some 'high mileage' oil. It may not do much of anything, but it might be worth a try at least one time.

 

My 3.0 loved valvoline max life. I had a rear main leak that I didn't want to deal with and it slowed it down enough to keep from having to add oil between changes. Not sure it does much else as far as wear prevention. But if you have some small leaks which at that mileage is highly possible it should help with them.