I recently changed my oil from 10w-30 (the previous owner always used Quaker State) to Valvoline VR1 20w-50 based on many suggestions from this website. The ZDDP level was the main reason I chose this over others and the heavier weight due to living in a hot climate (South Florida). I liked what I heard from many positive reviews from the readers/posters. During this oil change, I noticed the very important upper oil filter seal was missing (the one where oil won't filter properly without it), so I replaced that too.
Last night was the first long drive I've had since the previous mentioned maintenance. Later on in the drive, my heart fell into my stomach when I felt a pause/shudder upon more pronounced acceleration while in 3rd through 5th gears. I've always read changing viscosity wasn't a big deal, but now I am doubting this and feel like I need to drain this oil and go back to what it had. Has anyone ever experienced this before? A simpler explanation would be a differential issue, but the coincidence in timing has me thinking otherwise. I would love to hear what others think.