What's Best for My Cummins Diesel Ram - Should I Change Oil Early or Wait?

[@adamholbrook2281]

Maybe it doesn't make a difference in the grand scheme of things, but it seems like to me the very first change as was the case here should probably be early just to get the debris out of circulation. The report clearly identified they were present. Expected and normal yes, but that doesn't mean it was good for the engine to have them floating around. Just my 2 cents. After the first few changes I can see where you could go longer periods especially if you are monitoring with analysis reports. Thanks for bringing this up.

[@erichumphrey4028]

Apparently these guys don't know that 2.5 gallons of synthetic 5w-40 is only $60 at TSC

[@boricuaracing11]

Pulled apart 180,000 customer changed every 10k had to replace whole motor. Pistons we’re rubbing into interior cylinder wall and caused full compression failure. 5,000 max

[@HVTMuddvain]

Thats 1 example lol and to top that you have absolutely no clue how the owner or owners treated that truck for 180,000 miles Bought a used 03 20 yrs or so ago with 84k on it went back to the same dealer within the first month they kept it for 3 months and replaced over 15k worth of parts then got it back and the tranny went out at 105k definitely felt like a lemon but i ran it from 84k all the way to 235k till i could get un lopsided and walked loved the truck when it was running but had to part ways when the tps went out 4 times in 12 months at 450$ a pop i was done

[@stonepa]

Land Cruiser forums talk about this all the time. I have the same argument with the BMW dealer about my wife’s car. I couldn’t care less what Blackstone says. If I had a fleet of vehicles, an aircraft, or a commercial boat i may care. I don’t. Gotta tell you - oil is cheap. Every 5 k for me.

[@tommays56]

The COST of waiting to LONG is staggering and NOT apparent until it’s TO late

[@specialopsdave]

In high-dust, high-load ranch environments, I'd still say 10K

[@hummyhero1484]

Oil is cheaper than a engine so why not change it sooner. That’s how I think about it

[@slinkyitsslinky8697]

Got a 2002 cummins, I change mine every 5,000 miles. 90% of time its hooked to a trailer. Got 528,000 miles on it and climbing......

[@Gooddog1]

Awesome take care of you're rig and it will take care of you.

[@slinkyitsslinky8697]

@@Gooddog1 560,000 now......

[@manolosanchez900]

​@@slinkyitsslinky8697 my ford 7.3 947k 😂😂

[@russdeshon1986]

I've had 4 cummins in Rams and each was put on a 10,000 miles service interval for oil service, fuel filters and air filters no problems ever due to that philosophy

[@ivankorth4458]

I’m a FIRM believer that oil is cheap and engines are NOT, I change more often than the Manuel , every 5000 miles

[@jdfleetguy28]

Great video guys. Congrats to Alex on the new Cummins ! I have owned several. The trucks computer ask for service right at 15000, I let truck decide what’s best for it. Never had a problem. Also Dealer service at 15k miles includes fuel filter replacement there is 2 of them. Typical Cummins service every 15k runs around $300-350, that includes both fuel filters. The first service Ram pays for so Andre’s should have been free at the dealer , unless they could not cover it at such low milage.

[@etteyafed]

They probably paid for it since they usually only do the free service at the proper intervals. I think Andre had to get it changed to get his oil sample.

[@jdfleetguy28]

@@etteyafed Yea, I know Toyota won't do the free service early have to wait to at close to the 10K mark on Tundra's. I was not sure about Ram I had never tried it on RAM, the Tundra computer comes on at 5K asking for service, but all that is a tire rotation at 5K not the oil change. We have all brands in my business fleet, I let all trucks all brands decide when they need and when they receive routine service. We typically always have them dealer serviced so there is always clear record of following the recommended service intervals at least while under warranty.

[@rustynail7866]

Rotella T6 every 15K. Or you can waste your money and change it more often.

[@LotsOfPaypa]

Peace of mind is not a waste…

[@rustynail7866]

@@LotsOfPaypa in a 3 gallon oil system yes it is.

[@headdown1]

@@LotsOfPaypa I do 15,000 mile oil changes in my Cummins. My peace of mind comes from my Blackstone lab reports every oil change. They actually recommend I extend the change interval to 17,000 miles, so I feel pretty comfortable changing it at 15,000 miles.

[@LotsOfPaypa]

@@rustynail7866 3 gallons? Yeah I would agree it should be fine…

[@LotsOfPaypa]

@@headdown1 6.7? If you have a newer engine then yes I agree with the recommended interval. However if you have a higher mileage engine I personally would shorten my oil change intervals… Higher mileage like over 100k for gas and probably 200k for Diesel.

[@petecarlton3551]

I change my 6.7 power stroke every 5000km/3000miles. My use makes it at about 120 hours. I have no problem with over maintaining oil/filter and arch oil additive run me about $280. I put on 5000 to 6000 km month

[@PeeterPuncher]

15k? 🤣...of course they tell you that, they don't own it. I'm sure the fluid in the transmission is "lifetime" trans fluid as well. More money than brains.

[@LoneWolf-cf5tp]

I agree. Why would they want these trucks to last 25 years. They like selling $80k trucks. Lol

[@wojnowski01]

Agree and disagree, it’s not about the oil. It is about the fine particulate that scars the one components that lead to expensive repairs. As thing have tighter and tighter tolerances. The effects are amplified. You want the fine particles that your standard filter can’t filter out (which is why diesel oil is instantly black) out as quickly as possible. This is the balance between oil change frequency and cost. I half the recommendation on everything and rather pay the oil change cost the one engine over haul cost.

[@toenails.]

Engineers know best. Follow the science....

[@cambrian7119]

Hi, Andre: On my 08 Ram, I installed the Amsoil bypass filtration system which allows 10% of the oil to be filtered down to two microns, then returned to the sump. After an hour or so 100% of the oil has been filtered to that two micrron level. I change oil about every 30,000 miles, and usually send a sample to Blackstone at the 18,00 mile mark. It always comes out with stellar results, with all indicators showing an engine in excellent condition, and encouraging me to just keep using . in that 30K miles it uses no oil, has no blow by, and runs like a Singer sewing machine. By the way: I'm currently at 209K miles. I had the same equipment on my 96 Dodge with the 5.9 Cummins, used the Amsoil signature series oil, and always had similar reports from the lab. The trick is that the truck only is used for towing my 10K trailer on the road as I'm a full time RVer who stays in every resort for 3 weeks, then I drive to the next resort and stay another 3. I have a 400cCC Burgman highway scooter for sight seeing, and shopping while the truck is parked. Unlike me, many trucking companies go 100K to over 200K using this system without changing oil, and suffer no damage. If I were using it as a daily driver-even using the by pass filter- I would be doing it every 15K. Using a diesel as a daily driver with little load creates many problems with acid buildup, and moisture in the crankcase that isn't burned off in every day type driving. I do change the primary oil filter every 8K miles, and use the oil from the old filter and pour it into the new one. Anyhow; if you have nothing larger than two microns in your oil, there is almost zero wear as you go along, soooo, I do expect a million miles out of this old horse of mine. I enjoy your videos, and especially like the Ike run. Michael Rzewuski

[@IndianaFr0g]

Installed the bypass kit as well. Where did you mount your filter housing? Curious.

[@willrector9716]

15k is way too long..... I've seen tests on toyotas that say 15k too and those motors wear out in 150k.... if you change the oil at 8k you can expect at least another 100k out of your vehicle. According to the tests I've seen. My 2020 d max says 8k..... I think ford's are the same. Curious why ram goes so long...

[@LoneWolf-cf5tp]

I agree, if u work an engine I’m not going 15k.

[@IndianaFr0g]

I'll be curious to see how the oil holds up after you guys have the 68A recall done, especially if the EGR is increased. I personally installed a AMSoil bypass filter to keep my oil as clean as possible. Please consider doing another oil analysis after the recall. Thanks guys and looking forward to any results.

[@vincentrobinette1507]

Forget miles, forget hours. The most accurate way to determine when to change oil is by how much fuel the engine has consumed since the last oil change. When I drove a tow truck, the engine spent a lot of time running loaded idle. That's when the truck is using it's hydraulics for a recovery, or, using the alternator to jump-start another car or truck. In these instances, the Odometer is not amassing mileage, though it's still burning more fuel than unloaded idle. The engines were the old GM 6.2L V-8 normally aspirated engines. (manufactured by Detroit Diesel) They held ~9 quarts of oil, including filter, lines, and oil coolers. We changed oil after the truck has consumed ~250 gallons of fuel. That works out to between 25 to 30 gallons of fuel, per quart of oil capacity. Modern turbocharged diesel engines with their high pressure fuel injection systems burn much cleaner, but, the chamber pressures are higher, owing to all that extra torque per Cubic Inch of displacement. With better oils, with higher break-down temperatures, you can probable safely burn at least 30 gallons of fuel per quart of total oil capacity, X the total number of quarts in the system. That will compensate for weather conditions, load, and even idle time. Remember; Your mileage WILL vary!!!

[@rsg1963]

I have 132k on a HO/Aisin Ram and change roughly every 10k. Been using Blackstone for years and they keep telling me I could go longer. I guess 10k is my personal limit, not my oil's limit.

[@keganinama7579]

I just started the video So don't bash on me. My dad has an 07 Ram 2500 HD and he changes the oil every 7000 miles no matter what. If he's towing the skidsteer, just cruizing...it doesn't matter. That's a nice truck and I wish I had one. Congrats guys!

I'm sure you're looking into other fluid changes. The front and rear diff stock fluid isn't the best if you're towing a lot. Look into changing those fluid yourself too. The new 5th gens might have a fill and drain plug now on the differentials. I had to use a hand pump to suck out the old diff fluid. I only had a fill plug. Look into the bags of diff fluid, valvoline, over the hard plastic jugs. They fit down there better to fill. Much easier. I'll change my own fluids cause everyone makes a mistake in life. I'd rather be the one to blame then a poor tech having and off day. Jiffy lube shops never tightens my oil filter all the way or snug. Since it's by hand in the passenger Wheel well. I think it's fun as HeLL to learn these simple lessons. It feels good to work on your toys. And it's fun to talk about and to learn more.

[@braytonosmon1852]

Under $50 for an oil change on a diesel!??? Does Alex know how much oil those things take?!

[@ANDthe3]

I had to look it up. 12 quarts. So even if you bought your oil and filter at Walmart, you would still be out of $75.

[@d33psix88]

The engine in those trucks have never been what you have to be concerned about. It’s pretty much everything else..🤷🏻‍♂️

[@truthhurts4555]

Had mine 7 years drive it everyday and not so much as a squeak or rattle.

[@d33psix88]

@@truthhurts4555 anecdotal

[@chrism2042]

I owned a 1999 2500 and a 2005 3500 dually, towed heavy a lot with both. Both towed horse trailers all over the NC, TN & VA mountains on a regular basis. Both trucks were running and towing great when I traded, the 99 had 251K miles and the 2005 had approx 210K miles. Only two major repairs to both trucks were fuel pumps went out 100-120K miles, both needed front wheel bearings 170-180K miles. Both trucks Oil change at approx 75% mileage of manufacture recommended (These are the ones the techs told me was overkill on service, but I had my reasons) Changed the fuel filter every oil change Alternated - At one service, changed front and rear diff fluids. Next service, auto trans filter (flush system every other filter change) and transfer case fluid. Overkill? Maybe! But neither truck had any engine, 68RFE transmission or drive train issues! Dudes bash the 68RFE trans, but I worked both of those trucks hard, never had any trans issues. (Could it have been due to keeping them serviced, instead of neglecting servicing the trans?) I now have a 3500 dually limited 4x4 with HO 6.7 and aisin trans, I don't work this one hard but still stay on top of servicing.

[@oldsalt8011]

Good Deal. I agree.

[@stewpidasso288]

Transmission service is key!

[@wj2791]

I drove 2020 F350 DRW 6.7 for 60k miles and was waiting for 2023 F450 Limited for 11 months. With no end in sight, I jumped the ship and purchased 2023 Ram 3500 Limited DRW HO 6.7 , Aisin Trans, 4.1 Gear. I had full body Suntek PPF and Ceramic coating plus nano ceramic tint for interior including the windshield. I am overly surprised how good is Ram 3500 Limited. It has better interior, smoother with auto leveling kit, TPMS, Apple like keypad. Gas mileage is par with F450 Limited. Around 15.5 driving empty. Tire will be cheaper on Ram 3500 than F450 Limited. It is not a fast truck, but fast enough . I can drive few hours and my back doesn't hurt and leg is not cramping up. I do not tow, but do haul some weight and this is my daily vehicle. I will take the Ram over Ford now but do miss 10 speed on gas mileage. I am 5'10" tall and it is very hard to see the front. On Ram, I usually have to wait before taking a chance on a tight spot. I do take care all my trucks or cars and they are all in great shape when I sell or trade them in. I do not pull trailers but do carry some weight 500-2500 lbs time to time. I do change oil at about 70-75% and fuel filter/air filter/cabin filters at every other oil change. I will change the front / real differential fluid / transmission fluid and filter at about 60% of the manuf recommendation time.

[@chrism2042]

@@wj2791 - Your mileage is due to the gearing. My previous 3500 was 4:10, was ok on mileage but not great. When I got my current truck, they had one like it with 4:10 but I got the 3:73 and couldn't be happier. On interstate (not towing) with cruise set on 75, I average 19.0 - 19.2 mpg every time I have checked it. On highway with cruise set on 60, I always average around 21 mpg. Have not checked it at the pump with a lot of city/daily driving but the truck computer usually shows between 17-18 mpg, but of course the computer always shows .1 - .2 mpg higher than checking at the pump on long trips.

[@terrencejones9817]

15K miles Would be the bare minimum to get you out of the warranty period. You are playing with Fire if you think 15k miles is a good idea on any engine.

[@jstaffordii]

My god they pay to much for oil changes. Mobil Delvac 15w40 is $34 for 2.5 gallons at Walmart. Order filter in 6 pack online for $8 each. I can change my oil in 10 minutes at home without needing ramps. 5k/200 hour interval seems to be aligning perfectly with the oil monitor on my Duramax. There is no reason to waste money on synthetic other than draining your wallet for extended drain interval. Changing the filter is the most important of the oil change operation. They bypass when full of contaminants.

[@tomcomo7907]

I have 8 of these and use them for work. They idle all day so change based on that. I now change my own fuel filters and it takes 15 to 20 minutes. It’s a big savings to do it yourself and very easy.

[@sirblood]

How often do you change your fuel filter

[@shawnh9677]

@@sirblood i change the rear chassis mounted when the evic gets to around 10%. then i change the engine mounted filter and air filter cabin filter and do a transmission drain and fill every 25k miles.

[@gerardochavez2609]

I went to a local Dealer here in Los Angeles they wanted $1200 for oil change, fuel filter, and oil filters aswell.

[@charliebarbera3371]

I work for Cummins, and can tell you that you are spot on with your findings on this. If you change your oil more frequently than recommended then you are wasting resources, money, and time. If your concerned, you can go to any Cummins branch and buy an oil analysis kit and send your oil sample in for analysis. They are $30-$40. I bought my truck brand new and have every oil analysis since day one truck has 160,000 miles on it now. That will also add some value when I go to sell it.

[@Back_door_bandit_98]

They tell you having all the oil change paper’s and stuff like that will make a difference but between all the vehicles I have either sold or traded in not one person has ever asked me for the service records or even hinted at asking if the services have been performed doing the services in your vehicle is for yourself only not to help the resale value.

[@shitloveaduck]

@@Back_door_bandit_98 - depends on the vehicle. I have bought and sold many. It really can affect the resale, especially if it’s a classic or near classic vehicle.

[@headdown1]

@@Back_door_bandit_98 I personally would be impressed by a seller of a Cummins vehicle who could show me their oil analysis reports. Few things would indicate that the person takes care of their engine more than taking the time to send oil samples in to Blackstone for analysis. And I can't think of anything that would give a better indication of the condition of an engine that past and present oil analysis reports.

[@rhod8201]

Have you had any issues with the def system?

[@number40Fan]

In what capacity do you work for Cummins?

[@tundras4ever552]

I always do a break in oil change at 1000 miles and then every 5k miles . Have always done it this way and will continue to do so. This is on my gas engine just to be clear.

[@machfive916]

I too am a big fan of changing the OEM oil at 1,000 miles to get rid of the metals associated with the engine breaking in. Then I fill with a quality oil. Currently, I am running 0W-20 Shell Rotella gas truck oil for my 5.3L gas burning 2020 Silverado.

[@tundras4ever552]

@@machfive916 nice! Yea I run pennzoil ultra platinum 5w20. Made the engine so much quieter than the OE oil which is probably bulk oil at the dealer

[@thim8009]

I pull 28,000 pounds daily with my Cummins. That's not the weight of the truck. I change mine every 6000. Fuel filters every other time. Air filters every 3rd time unless needed sooner.

[@stuartryerson8335]

I'm a 22+yr diesel tech in 🇨🇦. I bought a 2017 Titan XD Cummins. have done all oil changes around the 14-16k km. oil analysis every oil change. oil is always in great shape. one analysis flagged excess sodium. Egr cooler was just starting to fail. had it replaced before any coolant loss was even noticeable. My warranty has now expired and I will be doing my oil changes annually! on my schedule!!! every fall to have fresh oil for the cols winter startups!!! I changed all oils over to Amsoil around 40k km. Now have 98k km on a stock truck!

[@goducgo]

How do you like Amsoil? I use plenty of their products but not oil.

[@rsg1963]

@@goducgo I'll chime-in here as well. I've used many top synthetic oils for years in the past: (Delo 400, Shell Rotella, Valvoline, etc.) but none of these rated as well with at oil analysis time as Amsoil consistently does. In fact, it's so good, I now only run their 5w-40 Signature oil (instead of 15-40), even in Arizona. Every time I change my oil, the analysis comes back that I could go much longer/further than I'm doing. So even financially, the higher price paid for Amsoil is mostly returned with the extended intervals.

[@stuartryerson8335]

@@goducgo I first put the ATF in my transmission. noticed a substantial improvement. I did lots of research on oils. Im running 5w40 signature series. ATF in trans and their gear lube in both diffs. amsoil is a group 4 oil. most synthetics are group 3 semi-synthetic oils. i have switched both my vehicles and families cars over to amsoil. I also removed the garbage nissan blue coolant and put in fleetguard es compleat oat.

[@stuartryerson8335]

I'm also adding 4oz of injector clean/cetane boost during the summer and their all in 1 during the winter.

[@robertpolkamp]

You fell for the Scamsoil marketing..🤦‍♂️

[@leonardrice2830]

It is a lot of oil. That’s why I go to a local Valvoline. The $150 price is about right.🤔

[@elgroucho7563]

I don’t put in the miles so I go by date- I really like the 5w40 rotella and I use dealer for all filters. So far it’s been great- prices are kinda hi but I bought it for the long haul.

[@user-pgchargerse71]

On my 2011 Cummin I change oil at factory recommended 7500 miles with either Delo 15w40 or Delvac. Engine is all stock and still going strong at 700,000+ miles.

[@leonardrice2830]

Before I continue watching the video I’ll tell you what I’ve been doing on my 2018 ram 3500 stick shift: I never go to the full oil interval. Usually change anywhere between five and 7500 miles. Full synthetic.

[@Robert-cu9bm]

There's no need to do it, but if it makes you feel more comfortable it's worth it. Oil and materials have improved dramatically over the last couple decades.

[@barrigany]

@@Robert-cu9bm 100 agree, but that darn emissions crap dirties the oil faster, no?

[@jam5158]

I also let my 2021 RAM 2500HD truck decide when it needs to be changed. I go by the percentage of oil life gauge in the LED readout. I usually get it changed at around 10% of life. Here in crazyfornia a full oil/filter and 2 fuel filter change at the dealer will cost you upwards of $600 with just a oil change in the range of $275. That is $225 just for them to change out about $75 worth of fuel filters. I now change my own fuel filters after researching it and watching several videos on how to do it. Now it takes me about 30 minutes to do both and I save $200 and let the shop do the oil changes.

[@gerardochavez2609]

Went to a dealer here in Los Angeles they wanted $1200 for an oil change with fuel filters and labor 😮😮

[@charlesb4267]

@@gerardochavez2609 Did they offer you any sort of rear end lube option as they bent you over the counter ?

[@sebzx779]

Pd diesel changes every 20k in his fleet of over 20 ram trucks and they run 500k miles plus. Don't waist ur money with early changes.

[@danh8302]

Can’t imagine telling someone to go 20k without even looking at shit underneath. I changed the oil in a fleet truck once that had about 1 qt of sludge came out of the 11 qt pan. I checked, it had been like 10 years of turning off and on and moving around the yard. But they were under the mileage…

[@sebzx779]

@@danh8302 he posted Blackstone report which show fine even towing gooseneck loaded for 100% of the time. My 2019 ram showed fine ware at 15k mile changes. Diesel Oils today will not sludge up after 20k. If they do you have an underlying problem with the engine.

[@russellriggan2088]

Oil is cheap. Engines are not. Change your oil more often.

[@philipcoulson7477]

I think Andre is correct and he has the manufacture recommendation and lab study to back him up. What do the other guys have for evidence to back up their claims?

[@davemitton6186]

EXACTLY !!!

[@williamcrist1887]

I have a 2021 F-350 with the 6.7 and I also change my oil every 5K. I do not pull a lot of big loads anymore but I still believe in changing my engine oil more often.

[@Robert-cu9bm]

There's no need as oils are very good now. It does no harm early changes, just cost you more money

[@keyboard101101]

Are you running full synthetic? Like Rotella T6. Im all for oil changing way sooner than the manufacturer recommends but for full synthetic that seems a bit excessive. I run a 2018 Freightliner with the DD15 engine and change the oil every 50-60 kms using Shell Rotella T6 5W40 or 15W40

[@IntensityR6]

I’ve been using rotella t6 15w-40 for a while now. I change every 15k and my 6.7 has been running great. Now my 12 valve is a different story… that thing chews Up oil in a couple thousand miles lol

[@WW-wf8tu]

Since TFL does not use/work that truck very hard, I am sure it can go on the farther side than under side and it will have no issues. Not to mention, you won't be keeping it for 3-5 years, so why dump a ton of money on these short term ownership maintenance costs? PS: Nissan trucks 2020-2022 have a recall notice out, might want to be kind and make a quick video on that news. I gave more information about it on TFLNow already. ;)

[@whitelightnings1978]

5k on oil and 10k on fuel filters.

[@tyrrellroach5872]

I use a Cummins as a work truck. I can say that I use the timer on the truck and when it gets to about 20-25% life I start thinking about getting the oil changed same with the fuel filters. Doing this seems to keep the soot down in the oil do it isn’t instantly black after an oil change

[@headdown1]

Hi guys, Love your channel. I have a 2017 Cummins Ram 3500. About half of it's 101,000 miles are towing heavy, and half empty. I have always followed the manufacturer's recommendation of oil and filter changes at 15,000 miles. For the last two oil changes (75,000 and 90,000 miles) I have sent a sample to Blackstone labs. With 15,000 miles on the oil, my TBN numbers were still high enough that they recommended that I increase the oil change interval to 17,000 miles. I have kept the changes at 15,000 miles, but just wanted to let you know that this is not considered to be excessive by Blackstone. And they have a very large Cummins 6.7 data base to compare my numbers against. You mentioned the TBN number, but I think you might have confused it with the usual measure of acid/base from 1 to 14. I don't think this is the case. Blackstone told me this is a measure of how much additives are left in the oil that are partly there to prevent it from becoming acidic. It is not a measure of the acidity of the oil at present if I understand correctly. As long as you are above their minimum TBN number, they seem to feel that you can extend the oil change interval.

[@charles.hanson.1]

plz do an AT4X AEV vs ZR2 BISON 1500 vs RAM TRX vs RAPTOR drag race or tug of war

[@andreiturcan9721]

It depends where you want to be when you become part of a general statistics and average. If let's say on average an engine lasts 400 thousand kms before it gets overhauled, that means that, yes, the majority would be around that 400 thousand mark, but also some engines would last 600 thousand (the ones that were taken care of exceeding of what the manual says), and some engines would last only 200 thousand(the ones that were a neglected, abused, lacking recommended services and so on). So here's my point, where you want to be, in the small, but proud 600 thousand group, or in the 400 thousand, like the majority, which would be happy with that, but not knowing that they could have done better? And also we take in consideration the fact that the manufacturers have to build and sell new trucks and engines. If buyers are happy with a 400 thousand benchmark, they will keep recommending the 15 thousand kms oil changes. Keep the flow going. Me personally, I prefer to be in the 700 thousand km bunch, where there's only a very few. I own a 2016 ram 3500 with Cummins HO, bought it used a year ago and we're using it mainly for towing our camper, 6000lbs. Changing the oil at 10 thousand kms, or around 150 hours. I intend to keep the truck as long as it lasts, and am doing my best to make it last. An extra oil change a year is cheaper than going to look for another truck ten-fifteen years down the road.

[@loveracing1988]

When the light comes on I change it. Fuel filters and oil change every 15k

[@kevincameron8437]

Same..I go by my dash telling me when to change..196K and going strong so far ..knock on wood…

[@MegaRetr]

I like to see this done on that Santa Cruz.

[@JasonBoydston]

My 2012 Cummins "makes" oil between oil changes when it does DPF regen, I change mine every 4k miles just due to the fuel dilution issue with my truck. I would never think of doing a 10-15k oil change interval on any vehicle.

[@stuartryerson8335]

if you're getting excess fuel dilution. find the source!!! u could easily have a bad injector. we see it all the time in our ISB 8.3L engines in our transit buses! U shouldn't be making oil!!! if anything u should be losing it!!! all modern diesels consume some amount of oil!!!

[@Gary7even]

It looks like in that chart in the manual they recommend the FIRST oil change at 7500 miles or 6 months.

[@MrChadx1]

In the manual shown in the video, it does not show that. There is no "X" in the 7500 column. Look at the Xs in the Oil Change row; that is the interval. So in this case, 15,000 miles / 12 months. With all the emission equipment, that seems too long to me, but it is what is called for. Definitely doesn't call for the first oil change at 7,500 miles. No X in that column. Freeze the video at 2:59 to see the owners manual. Interesting that in the "severe duty" section, it only says that interval may be reduced, but doesn't say to what. It's all up to the computer. Problem is, computer only uses an algorithm based on rpm, hours, load, etc. It doesn't know if you drive in a dusty or smoky environment, etc. Anyone living rural and driving gravel roads or other dusty environment should be doing oil changes twice as often. Would be interesting to see a lab test on oil from a pickup that spends half it's miles on dusty roads to see if they that is picked up in the tests.

[@Terror1Void]

@@MrChadx1 Kia/Hyundai half the service interval for the severe schedule. It's 3k miles or 6 months in my elantra N and 3750k or 6 months for the wifes Sedona.

[@MrChadx1]

@@Terror1Void Agreed and that was my point. I my gas fullsize pickup, the manual says 10,000mile oil change interval and 5,000 for severe duty. So I do the 5,000 mile changes. I find it strange that the Ram does not specify a severe duty oil change interval and only says "the interval may be reduced". Apparently one is supposed to then rely on the computer to tell you, but the computer doesn't know if I drive on a dusty gravel road which is "severe duty"; it only knows my idle time, rpm, miles driven, etc. so it doesn't see the full picture. Ram needs to specify the severe duty intervals in the manual so those owners have the information. I would make an educated guess and do 1/2 intervals, but many people aren't familiar with such things and rely on the manual to be complete and thorough.

[@scottyellis3442]

Alex I still think you're right for changing your own oil even if you didn't really save to much money, I've had bad experiences at dealerships changing my oil. (Not put the filter on tight enough & it leaking most of my oil out, & once they didn't change the filter at all) I change mine every time, it's a piece of mind that it's done right.

[@ryanhessler8966]

I bought a used car from a dealer and they gave me a coupon for a free oil change when it needed it. I took it there and they tried to charge me 100 bucks to drill and tap my oil pan because the plug was stripped. When I told them it hasn't been touched since I bought it, that means your service tech must've done it when you changed the oil as per your used car service and inspection claims, they changed their tune. Just trying to screw me out of some money since I had the coupon I figure but they screwed themselves out of a customer because I refuse to go back there

[@Malc664]

Plus they tend to use a cheaper oil they buy in bulk. In one of my cases anyway.

[@Gerald1062]

The dealership uses the cheapest oil they can find. I find your info pointless if we don’t know which oil you use and no comparison to other brands like Amsoil.

[@tnargdonald]

I don’t know about the thin oil Cummins like that, but on my older 6.7/5.915w40 motors I run 15-20K oil change depending on usage, more because of hours. I have had 12 of those trucks all well over 350K miles. Oil Analysis every oil change and I have never had an issue. Transmissions? Those are problems 😂

[@dannonebr]

Never had an issue with a Dodge/Ram tranny AS LONG as I kept them dealer serviced (change fluid, filter and adjust the bands) as per the owners manual.

[@tnargdonald]

@@dannonebr I have had 2 fail under 80K. 50K fluid changes which is before dealer recommendations, but mine put in work.

[@oldsalt8011]

Which Tranny Was this that failed? Aisin or 68RFE?

[@garrygraham7901]

15k miles/12 months is exceptionally good for a diesel. The Cummins must be a brillian engine with those analysis results. I am in Australia with a Toyota Fortuner 2.8 litre diesel and the recommended is 10,000 km (6k miles) or 6 months. Many 'experts' say it should be done every 5000 km! I do the recommended changes. I reckon Toyota, with 10 million car sales every year, know what is the best service schedule. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines and you should be good.

[@jamesclapp6940]

in Large CMV Cummins powered N-14 engine(855 cubic inches) we routinely change engine oil at 25 K or roughly 2.5 months with a weekly average of 4500 miles pulling 48' flatbeds trailers over the highways use.

[@jeffforbes70]

44 quarts vs 12 quarts.devide 25k by 4 and you got a little over 6k mile equivalent

[@gregc9220]

5000 miles regardless of use, that is the milage I been changing my 2002 Ford F250 7.3 since the truck rolled off the lot new, 280k miles and haven't had a issue yet other than normal maintenance and sensors, not one part of the engine has been opened up, with that said it does have a oil leak or two 😂 but they still not hitting the ground, it's just chassis lubricant at this time.

[@davidmessmer148]

I really like the content of your video. I think it's important to have these discussions.... Because of the break-in minerals in your engine, I think the oil change should be done very soon after purchase with 5000 miles. I think the manual on all cars will Ensure the engine last past warranty, which is all Chrysler cares about... If you want a 500,000 mile engine, I would definitely not exceed 7000 miles... New Cummins have hydraulic valve train, and clean oil is absolutely essential to their longevity. Viscosity may be good, but you wanna ensure not too much carbon and deposit stand up in your oil... Just my opinion

[@johnneil6653]

Did your oil analysis show how much soot was in the oil? (Not if you didn't pay extra for that test.) Soot (carbon) is an abrasive and what I don't want to accumulate in my lube oil if I can help it. TBN is almost irrelevant in the era of ULSD. If I'm doing $50 oil changes, does the calculus change? (Rotella T6 or Delvac Extreme, and Fleetguard Stratopore filters...so not the cheap junk.) Why not change twice a year, 5k miles? Once a year would save $50 a year, but on average have twice as much soot and/or fuel in my oil. I can do a $40 UOA, or for $50, change the oil.

[@goducgo]

I bought the Valvoline 15-40 oil and Mopar filter from Amazon for 95 dollars. Paid local shop 40 in labor to change.

[@Jesco2841]

I go by time of year for the most part. And it works out to be around 7500miles. Wintertime I switch from a 15w40 to 5w40 in my Duramax.

[@jlbush8249]

A couple thousand miles in a diesel isn't a good indicator of much. Run it out to 15k between changes and test the oil again versus 5k change.

[@derekbeyers8804]

Amsoil 15-40 full synthetic signature every 5k-7k at most. Oil is a good investment! Buy clean fuel too. Get a FASS

[@Ritcheyyy]

You can talk about health of engine after 20+ years, my bmw e39 530d 2002 142kW has 395.000km and engine is running like new after 15k km average oil changes.

[@tonysanfilippo1101]

So do you have a video on the succession of oil tests you have done on this truck? In your 1st video of this truck about oil change interval, you said you planned to do that? Please let us know.

[@LeTigre22]

Oil change intervals exist for a reason. Because in average in most driving conditions that is the point where the oil should be saturated from suspending carbon and whatever else in the oil and to wear it’s lubricity and viscosity is still good but about to degrade. Engine oil is like effectively like soapy water….it’s job is to clean the oil in addition to lubrication. So changing it early is 100% a waste of money and doesn’t benefit the engine really unless you have an issue.

[@kevencouch3291]

The key determining factors for maximizing diesel oil change intervals, is soot & oxidation. Those tell you more than anything else on oil condition.

[@ranolfojr.boholst8780]

The lab results says it all 🙂 Decisions should be based on science 😉

[@jeffforbes70]

but they changed at 7500 not 15000. there's a toyota mechanic on you tube changing a short block because of stuck piston rings and they followed the 10000 mile oil change per the manual. at the end it was burning a quart every 250 miles.barrings were fine but the rings got stuck and scored the walls , clean oil keeps rings free.

[@ranolfojr.boholst8780]

Yup. I’ve seen his videos too. But I’m not fully convinced of his thesis regarding the frequency of oil changes. There could be some other reasons why the oil gums up in between the piston rings. There are also other videos that show that engine oil is still very viable after 10k miles.

[@jeffforbes70]

@@ranolfojr.boholst8780 so oil report show the oil is ok but the engine failed, long drain cycles cause stuck rings noise lifter, stretched timing chains.what a report doesn't show is what garbage that is being deposited in critical parts . oil reports tells what is in the oil not what's left behind

[@MrMariobig]

I have a 2008 Ram with a 6.7 Cummins with 225,000 miles I'm the only owner I use to use Valvoline 15w40 Premium Blue and would change the oil every 5,000 to 7,000 miles now I've been using Mobile1 Delvac and Mobiles 20,000 miles filter now for the past three years I change my oil every 20,000 miles

[@bryantwhittaker6086]

I tow pretty often and after the dealer recommended services for break in, I have just had the truck tell me through the dash when it needs an oil change and filter changers. Typically the oil still looks clean and that is around 15k miles. Another thing I have been doing since day one is running DieselKleen. It is the only additive that Cummins recommends. It has helped with mileage a little bit, and it for sure helps with clean fuel filters. So much so, that you could change fuel filters every other cycle(after checking/verifying of course). It is supposed to have the engine run a little hotter to burn off the EGR crud so you don't have build up that could result in EGR problems down the line is what I've been told as well

[@headdown1]

I also use DieselKleen, as recommended by Cummins. I have a 100 gallon fuel tank in the bed of the truck, and the float in the tank was getting stuck in place if not used regularly. Ten minutes with DieselKleen in the fuel tank and the sending unit frees up. If I fill the tank with just diesel and it is stuck, it stays stuck. It really does seem to dissolve deposits.

[@leestanphill1]

Just ordered T6 5-40 on Amazon for $65 which is $20 more than paying oil analysis. Could change oil at 7500 and filter at 15k to save a little money if you had to. I just do both at 10k

[@georgeprietz4424]

Lol. I love David. He is one of the best characters on TFL. Tommy is the best. Sorry Roman. Andre we love you too but the way you say "bucks' makes me cringe. But you have a Buhanka. So ya, you RULE.

[@2003evodave]

On my 2017 Ram 3500 4x4 dually HD with Aisin transmission I tow minimum 12k pounds and max 25k pounds on a regular basis BUT only put 5k-7k miles per year on it so only do yearly changes. On all our other trucks we try to do it at 3k-5k due to very heavy use and dusty conditions. Since I have my own shop (we do it ourselves) buy filters by the dozens and oil by the gallon or drum. As for changing oil early or at lower miles I don’t see how it can be bad. I have a 25 year old Dozer with a 8.3L Cummins that I often changed at very very low hours (IE less than 100 hours because the oil was a year oil) But if we had a big job away from the shop for many months sometimes the hours would exceeded 200 or more. I believe because of all the many years of early services the engine is much cleaner inside, my reasoning for this is even with over 100 hours if I change the oil today it comes out of the oil pan as clear as the new oil. My employees all freak out by how perfectly clean the old oil is even after hundreds of hours of use and complain about how hard it is to check the oil because it’s difficult to see on the dipstick. So in my opinion if it was my vehicle and I can afford it I can’t see how early oil changes are in anyway a negative. Especially the way we run our rigs and equipment hard off road and keep them for decades or until 300k miles on vehicles. As for resale we always get above appraised value for our rigs since they are always in excellent running condition and come with detailed documented records since day one.

[@gj91471]

15,000 miles is crazy. RAM have no interest in Your truck lasting along time. After 4000 miles, Your RAM will have lost 35 hp and lost 15 % in fuel economy.

[@waynewalleye8458]

look up the dpf/def systems and how they work, they dump unused fuel into your crank case after the burn off cycle. You're oil will be contaminated!! I delete my diesels and avoid the oil contamination but still change my oil using amsoil 6x protection and a donaldson dbl7349 oil filter, it's the besdt filter. My next upgrade will be the amsoil bypass filter which filters down to 2 microns

[@justinsteinley4093]

My dealer was pushing me for every 6 months, referred to the manual, it’s states no longer then 12 months, I put on about 7000km a year, basically would be dumping perfectly good oil out, they claimed I could lose warranty, I again referred to the 12 months, be careful they try to scare you into early oil changes to make money

[@ski6712]

recently found an article on why and when to change diesel engine oil at the articles stated intervals . the explanations are from a red seal certified heavy duty diesel engine mechanic . the article was from march 12 , 2020. the article is.......... Cummins Diesel 6.7L Engine Oil Change Interval [ Avoid Costly Repairs ] - XL MechanicalService Ltd.

[@SMITT359]

Do your own oil change and filter change at least every 5,000 miles. Engine oil and filter are cheap, compared to new engine, or brand new truck.

[@davemitton6186]

Follow the Science. The report didn't lie here. Blackstone ALWAYS finds the we change our oil WAY to often. It feels good to change oil at 5000 miles but it is completely unnecessary. Having said that, I go every 5000 on the oil and every 10,000 on the Oil and Filter and Tire Rotation because it's easy to remember. Get yourself an "Easy Drain" valve and it makes it fun. ALSO . . . . Cummins recommends Valvoline "Premium Blue" and tells us that is the "FACTORY FILL" so that's exactly what my Cummins 6.7 Gets. Easy Peezy !!!!

[@mikebandw186]

If you were towing the front end loader every day, you would want to change on a lower mileage interval. But for occasional towing I doubt you are even straining that trucks capabilities. So you could save the money and change at 15k.

[@colin55594]

I would never exceed 7k miles. Change your oil keep the engine running best. Its cheap to change oil. Also wear additives degrease.

[@robpeabo509]

I do my diesel every 10,000Km or 6 months, whatever comes first. Both oil & filter. The manufacturer specifies every 12000Km or 12 months. I wont let it go 12 months.

[@14sgs]

Purchased 2018 Laramie new. I only put about 6K miles per year so once a yr works for me.

[@okjd159]

I only change the first one early. As shown in your report there are a lot of break-in material which gets cleaned out.

[@ldstirling]

I don't own a truck, but I have been doing all my own oil changes for many years in all the vehicles my family has driven. If you're frequently towing, or driving in extreme conditions, or if you put a lot of annual miles on your vehicle then it's likely better to change engine oil more frequently. Personally, my vehicles only accumulate about 10-11K miles/year. I tow very occasionally with my minivan, perhaps 3 or 4 times/year and nothing too heavy, just a light trailer or jetski. I change oil twice per year, every spring and every fall. Never have I had any issues.

[@mattdagger1480]

I change every new vehicles oil I own @ 1500-2k miles tops on the first oil change. No science to prove anything. But I’ve always done it. And always ran amsoil. Never had any engine problems my entire life thankfully. Knock on wood

[@superglide9068]

I wouldn't run 15 thousand miles on it. That asking 4 problems.

[@Jon-O.]

Some good advice here stop paying some one to do your oil change and spend the money on a 100% Synthetic oil instead. Cummins at least in my 2017 installed conventional diesel oil at the factory. I ran mine 1000 miles and switch it out for Synthetic and do oil changes once a year unless the mileage dictates otherwise. Note never do the full mileage interval with full synthetics their not going to hold up cut it in half. And your filter should be a100% Synthetic media the mopar oil filter is paper cellulouse and is crap switch it to Amsoil EAO series or a Cummins Fleetguard nanonet Synthetic media type filter. Do yourself a favor that's a $20,000 engine and you deserve giving it nothing but the best there is to offer it. Amsoil Signature Series period!

[@OnefastAZfarmtruck]

Old Cummins 12v/24v get conventional oil every 5-6k ish. New Cummins 6.7s get synthetic every 10k at my house

[@raysboatingandadventure1277]

Recommended 15,000. I go 10,000. Change fuel filters at 15,000. Srw rotation at 30,000. Went 60,000 on tires.

[@ditunnod]

Paid for an oil change on my 5.7 gasser last week. I was $1.50 more than what it would cost me from the store to do it myself not counting disposal so I actually saved money.

[@danielfrain3521]

You have to pay for disposal?

[@TermiteBenny]

I do the first at 1,000 miles, then again at 10,000 miles and every 10,000 miles thereafter with oil samples. I also run Amsoil 5w-40 signature series. The first one could be the highest chance for any metals during break in so I like to do the first very early just for peace of mind.

[@philllsxga.7737]

Never go past 7000 miles on a oil change I don't care what the book says!!! Oil loses viscosity and holds on to contaminants.. Even the back of the mobile one container on it's annual oil says follow your manufacturer's recommend oil change intervals... Yes on the back of mobile ones annual oil...

[@scottbionicnerf8727]

Diesels aren't the same as gasoline.🤔 You can comfortably run right to max recommendations and service it regularly. The differences come with extenuating circumstances like overheating and whatnot. You never want overheat it. Severe overheats are always fatal for most diesels. That's why new ones have so many counter measures in place to help prevent damage from overheating.

[@jalenwilson8389]

I'm actually shocked you guys didn't know better. Diesel is not like gas engines, and they tend to hold more oil, so they go longer than gas. That's the whole point of them being known for low maintenance. 5,000 miles is what my little Nissan Maxima does, and the told me 8,000 to 10K, and that's bs but also my car is gas not diesel.

[@23cummins68rfe]

id say 8000km , or every 6 months which ever comes first. all filters from oil to fuel should be changed

[@la897]

Of course the oil is good it has 7,000 miles on it. Getting a oil report is useless on a new truck. I’ve pushed my 4 cylinder Frontier harder then you pushed this truck. Stop with saying how hard you use this truck.

[@matthewjacobs1164]

I just did an oil change on my 2015 Ram 2500 Cummins. It cost me $65.76 for 3 gallons of Shell T5 synthetic blend 15w 40, $12.48 for the filter. With tax I paid $83.72 doing it myself in the driveway. The dealership is roughly double and they may not even do the work.