Keeping your 2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac running smoothly requires more than just regular maintenance; it demands the right fluids to handle the specific demands of its 4.6L 8-cylinder engine. Whether you are towing heavy loads, navigating rough off-road terrain, or simply commuting through stop-and-go traffic, the lubrication choices you make have a direct impact on engine longevity and performance. Using high-quality synthetic motor oils ensures your vehicle receives superior protection against wear, extreme temperatures, and engine deposits, keeping your Explorer Sport Trac in peak condition for miles to come.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
For the 2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac with the 4.6L engine, the following AMSOIL lubricants and maintenance items are specifically recommended to ensure maximum protection and performance.
- AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Offers unsurpassed engine protection with extended drain intervals of up to 25,000 miles or one year. This oil provides 75% more protection against horsepower loss and wear compared to industry standards.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Delivers extended protection for up to 20,000 miles or one year. It features 37% more cleaning power to help keep the engine running smoother and longer, guarding against Low-Speed Pre-Ignition (LSPI).
- AMSOIL OE 5W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A budget-friendly synthetic option that outperforms conventional oils. It is designed to fight sludge and deposits effectively, providing reliable protection for standard service intervals.
- AMSOIL 5W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Specially formulated for vehicles with over 75,000 miles. This oil contains boosted detergents and dispersants to reduce sludge by 67% and includes additives designed to help engines last longer and perform better.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Designed for extended service life with 99% filtration efficiency at 20 microns. It features greater capacity for contaminants and lower restriction to keep engine parts lubricated longer than standard filters.
- WIX XP Oil Filter – A premium filtration choice offering superior media that improves upon OEM-branded filters, providing excellent engine protection alongside AMSOIL oils.
- WIX Oil Filter – A standard premium filtration choice that improves upon original equipment manufacturer (OEM)-branded filters, providing reliable protection.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A unique poly-organic acid (OAT) formulation engineered to exceed OEM requirements. This 50/50 pre-mix protects all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses for up to 150,000 miles or five years.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated formula that requires mixing with distilled water. It offers exceptional protection up to 150,000 miles and is phosphate, nitrate, and nitrite-free, making it compatible with all other coolants.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Ideal for the 6R60 transmission, this fluid withstands heavy towing and elevated temperatures while remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions. It provides reserve protection during heavy use and abuse.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Recommended for the 5R55S transmission, this fluid offers robust protection against wear and sludge while ensuring smooth, shudder-free shifts.
- AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – A cost-effective synthetic option that promotes excellent cold-weather performance and guards against leaks.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – A cost-effective option for applications requiring OE specifications with fuel efficiency benefits.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 80W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Provides advanced protection for the front differential (M30/M186) with a capacity of 2.7 pints. It controls thermal runaway and contains friction modifiers for limited-slip applications.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – An alternative viscosity option for the front differential, offering similar advanced protection against wear and rust.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-110 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Provides advanced protection for demanding applications requiring a 75W-110 viscosity grade.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-140 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Specifically recommended for the rear standard and limited-slip (Traction-Lok) differentials, requiring 3.6 pints. It provides the robust protection needed for heavy-duty operation.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Ensures excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range, replacing the standard Motorcraft DOT 3 fluid.
- WIX Fuel Filters – Premium media offers improvements over original equipment manufacturer (OEM)-branded filters to ensure clean fuel delivery.
- AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver Gasoline Additive – Restores up to 14% horsepower and cleans fuel injectors to improve fuel economy.
The 4.6L 8-cylinder engine in your 2008 Explorer Sport Trac is a robust unit, but like any internal combustion engine, it requires proper lubrication to prevent wear and maintain efficiency. The engine oil capacity is 6.0 quarts when performing a filter change. It is crucial to refill the oil and then check the level after the refill to ensure the correct volume is present. When draining the oil, the drain plug should be torqued to 19 ft/lbs to prevent leaks or damage to the oil pan threads. Selecting the correct viscosity, 5W-20 for all temperatures, ensures the engine receives immediate lubrication during cold starts while maintaining proper film strength at operating temperatures. Using a filter that matches the oil’s extended service life is equally important; the AMSOIL Oil Filter (EAO11) is designed to last as long as the oil, allowing you to maximize the benefits of synthetic lubrication without being limited by the filter’s capacity.
Proper fluid maintenance extends well beyond the engine crankcase. The automatic transmission fluid is critical for the longevity of the 6R60 or 5R55S transmissions found in this model. Whether you have the 6-speed requiring 11.2 quarts for a total fill or the 5-speed requiring a total of 12.4 quarts, using a fluid designed to withstand the rigors of towing and high temperatures is essential. The 5R55S transmission benefits from fluids that prevent shudder and ensure smooth shifts, while the 6R60 handles higher stress loads. AMSOIL’s synthetic transmission fluid options are engineered to remain fluid in sub-zero temperatures while resisting breakdown under high heat, protecting your transmission’s internal components from premature wear and sludge buildup. Similarly, the cooling system, which holds approximately 13.9 quarts of antifreeze and engine coolant, relies on high-quality fluids to prevent corrosion and overheating. AMSOIL’s OAT formulations are compatible with all system metals and rubber components, offering a reliable barrier against the extreme temperature fluctuations that can occur in various driving conditions.
Finally, do not overlook the differential and transfer case lubrication. The Explorer Sport Trac’s four-wheel-drive system places significant demand on the transfer case and differentials. For the transfer case, which requires only 3 pints of lubricant, AMSOIL’s synthetic automatic transmission fluid can be used effectively. The front differential needs 2.7 pints of gear lube, while the rear differential, whether standard or limited-slip, requires 3.6 pints. Using a high-quality synthetic gear lube like SEVERE GEAR® provides the necessary pressure and temperature resistance to prevent wear, rust, and thermal runaway. The transfer case drain plug torque is 15 ft/lbs and the fill plug is 11 ft/lbs, ensuring a secure seal. By maintaining a full spectrum of high-performance lubricants, you ensure that every moving part of your vehicle is protected, reducing friction and extending the service life of your 2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac.
Vehicle Background
The 2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac represents a unique chapter in the SUV and pickup truck market, blending the utility of a mid-size truck with the comfort and capability of an SUV. Based on the Ford F-150 platform, this vehicle offers a distinctive “unibody” design that differentiates it from the body-on-frame construction of its pickup cousins, resulting in a ride quality closer to a traditional SUV. Under the hood, the 4.6L 8-cylinder engine was the primary powertrain option, delivering a solid balance of power and towing capability suitable for both daily commuting and light to moderate off-road adventures.
Known for its rugged styling and practical utility, the Sport Trac features a unique open-bed design that can be covered with a removable tonneau cover, making it versatile for hauling cargo or transporting large items. This model appeals to a wide range of drivers, from weekend adventurers needing off-road traction to families requiring a reliable daily driver with added space. The vehicle’s four-wheel-drive system, often featuring a SelectShift automatic transmission, allows for easy transitions between two-wheel and four-wheel drive, enhancing its adaptability to various terrain types. The inclusion of features like the optional Traction-Lok differential highlights Ford’s focus on providing enhanced traction in challenging conditions, whether on a snowy road or a muddy trail.
While it may not be a heavy-duty work truck in the same vein as a Super Duty, the Explorer Sport Trac holds a reputation for durability and versatility. Its market position as a crossover truck SUV filled a specific niche for consumers who wanted the utility of a bed without sacrificing the ride quality of a car-based vehicle. Owners appreciate its capable suspension system, which handles both on-road driving and off-road excursions with ease. The vehicle’s legacy is one of practicality and fun, offering a driving experience that stands out in a crowded marketplace of SUVs and trucks. Whether used for work or play, the Sport Trac remains a respected and capable vehicle, provided it receives the proper care and maintenance that its complex systems require.