Mark Mandell - Gone Round In Jersey
1. By any and all means, start using the synthetic oil kit right from the start. It will (with IR anyway) double the warranty.

2. You should plan on a dedicated 25 amp circuit for your new beastie unless you want your lights dimming when he cuts in. I started my 3 hp on a 20 amp circuit, but had to go to a 25 for cold winter use because it's mounted in the garage.