1st Diesel Maint. Suggestions Needed

[Leathl_WS6]

Hello



This is my first diesel. I just bought a 1999 Ram with the 24 valve Cummins. It has 114k and runs very good. Just wondering what are some of the things I should check or replace.



I have a ton of other questions but I will do a search for the answers first.



Thanks Rob

 

[DieselRam30]

Welcome to TDR.



Check pretty much the fluids in general if you don't know the maintenance history of the truck. Check trans fluid for burned smell and metal in the pan (if you have an automatic). Replacing the fuel filter might also be a good idea, they can sometimes be overlooked. At 114k miles it's probably time for differential oil change too if that hasn't been done. Might want to flush the trans cooler (if automatic) as well.



Other maintenance can be performed with a set of gauges, principally a fuel pressure gauge. This will allow you to assess the health of your lift pump and help you spot problems before they get expensive.

 

[Leathl_WS6]

Thanks



What should the fuel pressure be? Its a 6 speed, should I consider changing transmission fluid as well?

 

[mberry]

Welcome to the TDR. Fuel pressure should be about 15psi. If it's close to that you should be ok. If it's not then it's time for a new lift pump.



In my opinion, and if it were me, I would change all of the fluids and filters if I had no maintenance records at all. This would eliminate a whole bunch of potential problems right there. Also, I would check the ball joints, u-joints, and any other moving parts I could find. Also, check the thermostat for proper operation.



Instead of typing out a big list of stuff for you to check, just check everything you can and replace stuff when you can. There, that should just about cover it.