1st Benz - you don't want to end up in my shoes (read my M113 post about oil consumption and sludge). I would change the oil more often, especially in a high performance V8.

My $0.02 is that the FSS intervals are too long, even with synthetic. Also depends how you drive - city (stop and go) or highway cruising commuting.

You have an E55? I'd put in nothing but the best, a true Group IV (PAO) synthetic. Make sure the oil bottle specifies MB 229.3 or better, 229.51. Mobil 1 0W40, Elf Solaris, Castrol Syntec 0W30 (has to be the German Castrol, dubbed 'GC', read back of bottle should say 'Made in Germany').

I would also recommend doing an interim oil change in between FSS service intervals.

Use the fleece filter.

Good luck with the sludge. My lifters are noisy as well.

__________________
Chris
2007 E550 4Matic - 61,000 Km - Iridium Silver, black leather, Sport package, Premium 2 package
2007 GL450 4Matic - 62,000 Km - Obsidian Black Metallic, black leather, all options
1998 E430 - sold
1989 300E - 333,000 Km - sold
1977 280E - sold
1971 250 - retired

"And a frign hat. They gave me a hat at the annual benefits meeting. I said. how does this benefit me. I dont have anything from the company.. So they gave me a hat." - TheDon