New truck break-in

[EDurr]

I now have 280 mi on my 01 24v 2500 ext cb, lb, auto and I have been told to break it in under a load. Should this be a light or heavy load and at what mileage is it safe to start? Sorry about the apprehension but it goes against all I know being a first time diesel owner. Thanks in advance for any advice, it is much appreciated!

 

[Mad Bomber]

new truck break in

LOAD IT DOWN good and heavy, then run a pass or BIG hill. Is your a stick or auto?

 

[Vaughn MacKenzie]

Welcome to the Club EDurr



I wouldn't get too hog wild with a heavy load for the first few hundred miles, although I've seen members post where they took a truck with less than 100 miles on it, slap on a big 5-er and go on a road trip. I don't think I'd recommend that until at least 500-1000 miles, after that I'd say tow whatever you want.



I think more importantly you should drive at varying speeds and avoid short trips, now that the weather is starting to cool (though it is probably fairly warm where you are at still). Get into the throttle on a regular basis and work the motor for brief periods accelerating onto the highway and up grades, etc. I never used my cruise control until after 1000 miles. Also minimize idling time as much as possible, start it up in the AM and head out after a minute or two, and don't leave it sitting and idling for more than a few minutes for the first few hundred miles. . . better to shut it down.



Enjoy your new truck



Vaughn

 

[jGiacobbe]

I'm in pretty much the same boat (approx. 500 miles). I'm headed into the mountains for a week tomorrow. I think I should throw 10 x 80 lbs. sand bags in for the trip. What do you guys think. Too much weight, not enough?

 

[RustyJC]

I first towed our 5ver at 700 miles - a short 70 mile trip. When we started, it towed like a dog, but got a little better before we got home.



We then went to the LSTDR rally in Kerrville pulling the 5ver at about 1300 miles during which we were running with others at 70 MPH in the Texas Hill Country. The more we towed, the better this thing ran. By the time we got back home, there was a tremendous difference in the truck's performance. Compared to our first trip, it's pulling like a bear (for a stocker) now.



Based on our experience, these things don't run right until you work (not abuse) 'em!



Rusty

 

[Ram4Sam]

Hi neighbor!

Eric, just drive it normal and you'll be fine. If I remember right, the manual says don't tow heavy for the first 1000 miles and don't drive at a steady speed on the freeway for very long. I think the 1000 mile no towing is to give the rear end time to break in, not a engine thing.



Oh yea, you are wondering how I knew your name? I work at Stater Bros, my office is right next to Lance's. I have plenty of dirt on him if you want to hear some



Speaking of dirt, Lance says he is faster than you, is that true?



Sam