Shocking discovery!

[Lektrikman]

I just completed an oil and filter change on my 05 CTD and got a real shock. After draining the oil overnight and changing the filter I added 12 qts. of Rotella just like I always have. For some strange reason I decided to put the truck on level ground and check the oil level. Much to my amazement the dipstick indicated to the bottom of the safe zone, which according to the owners manual is 2 qts. low.

As I think back, I guess I've never checked the level after an oil change before, I've just always assumed if I put three gallons, or 12 qts in the engine

it was full.

I've read a few other threads on oil level and I seem to remember one other individual having this problem too.

Anybody else know what is going on or have this situation??... ... . Lektrikman

 

[JDiepstra]

I imagine the benefit of draining the oil overnight is that it allows more crud to get out? What other benefits are there? Thanks...

 

[steved]

The dipsticks are known to be inaccurate... dump the correct volume of oil in there and be done with it.

 

[ENafziger]

How long was it after you pulled the truck on level ground that you checked the oil? Unless you wait 5 - 15 minutes, it can be off significantly. Try letting it sit awhile, and check again...

--Eric

 

[DerekW]

grease monkey oil and lube: "since trucks are already warm when come to shop. fill her, fire it up wait for Oil pressure to hit normal. shut down. check level. send out door. " its been a few years since i worked there but that what they expect out of employees.



not to change subject but draining 3 gallons of hot as... oil in a pan during wind is fun aint it? miss the pan burn your hand. lol

 

[JHMiller]

That's pretty normal if you've run the motor, same as checking it at the fuel station when filling up. It will show at the add line, mine's usually above the add line just a little but after sitting 15-30 mins it's right at full. It does take awhile to drain into the pan. I've always wondered if the slow oil drain back is to allow the oil to pick up engine heat and aid in the cooling process?? Anyway, don't forget to prime the oil filter, it alway takes about 10 fills to get it full. I've had to take mine back off 3 times in 100k miles but caught it every time before I started it up.