Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) oil change

[TGaines]

I have been changing the oil in my Cummins for about 2 years now, and I still feel a little uneasy each time I'm finished. What is the process you guys go through when refilling the oil? How many quarts do you put into the engine? I know you put 1 quart into the filter, but do you include that quart when calculating the total number of quarts the engine holds? Exactly how far up the safe area is safe, and when do you know if you have too much oil. The dealer in NM said they hold twelve quarts, but I didn't think you could get that much out of it when you change the oil. My truck has been sitting for a week and I just drained the oil. How much do you think I should put back into the engine? I'm sorry if this is too simple for you, but I would like to know once and for all.



Thanks,

Travis

 

[JNailor]

I put nine in the engine and one in the filter.

When the truck sits a long time the dipstick reads full. When the engine runs and is shut down, it reads at the add mark. after a few hours it reads full again. Apparently the injector pump takes a long time to allow its lube to drain back into the pan. I would use the amount recommended in the owners manual for your truck and see where it comes on the dipstick.

I seem to recall a TSB about mis-marked dipsticks somewhere along the line.



Dana

 

[PUMPERDUDE]

I like things simple. I put 3 gallons per change. Its a tad overfull,but then I don't need any make up oil between 5k mile changes. Delo 400 ... :-{}

 

[Cooker]

Total capacity it 11 quarts (10 in the engine, 1 in the filter). Many members just throw in 12 quarts because the oil come in one gallon containers and there is no point having one lay around. Apparently there is no problems with running 12 quarts.

 

[C. Harlan]

That's what I do! If you use 3 bottles per change, one case of ROTELLA from Sam's will last 2 changes! my belief, however, is the heavier fueled the vehicle, the more frequent the oil changes needed, due to the more soot, and fuel on the walls of the motors. I could be wrong, but thats ok.



-Chris-

 

[MDW]

3 Gallons here

 

[shendren]

11 qts for me. every 4th oil change i only have to buy 2 gals !!