Oil Changes

[cmcdaniel]

I am a new diesel owner and would like to know how often I should really change my oil. I haven't switched to synthetic yet; it only has 6k on it and I am not sure I want to. I really like to take care of my equipment but it doesn't seem like I need to be buying 15 quarts of oil once every 3 months.

[Maintain]

How is your truck driven? Does it idle more time then it spends on the road? Does it spend more time on the hwy? Is it loaded or unloaded most of the time?

All these will be determining factors on your oil change intervals. A general 5,000 mile interval seems to be common. Give us more info on your driving habits and that will change.

[cmcdaniel]

I drive my truck daily, not loaded. totally empty. The most I will ever tow is a small motorcycle trailer 3-4 bikes. I live in CA so I do endure traffic quite a bit. Needless to say this truck is an overkill for me but I plan on buying a larger toy hauler in the future.

[Maintain]

5k should work for you.

[Banshee34]

Originally Posted by cmcdaniel

I drive my truck daily, not loaded. totally empty. The most I will ever tow is a small motorcycle trailer 3-4 bikes. I live in CA so I do endure traffic quite a bit. Needless to say this truck is an overkill for me but I plan on buying a larger toy hauler in the future.

Exactly why I bought mine!!! C'mon toy hauler!!

Also, before you change your oil next, get a Test sample kit from here: Blackstone Labs

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Last edited by Banshee34 : 10-24-2006 at 07:47 AM.

[cmcdaniel]

Thanks Banshee34, that is interesting stuff I had no idea that was available.

[Banshee34]

Originally Posted by cmcdaniel

Thanks Banshee34, that is interesting stuff I had no idea that was available.

I didn't either until I joined this site (well I'd heard the name but never knew what the heck it meant or what it was).

It's a very very easy process! In fact, I'm ready to send in my first sample!

[CHenry]

Originally Posted by cmcdaniel

Thanks Banshee34, that is interesting stuff I had no idea that was available.

I also use Blackstone to test my oil. The last sample i sent in had 5k miles on it and they reported that the oil was not near broken down yet and suggested i might go 6k miles next time and check it again. Once i optomize the milage bwtween changes through there reports, i will send in a sample once a year just to check for normal engine wear.

[cmcdaniel]

Chenry, How do you like your intake system? What mpg are you getting out of that dually?

[CHenry]

Honestly i can't tell a difference with the intake cause I haven't opened up the exhaust yet with a bigger pipe and high flow muffler.
With these new injectrors i just got, i'm able to get 20 on the highway if i keep it at 60-62 mph.