Soot in Tailpipe

[Eddy]

Hi, all. Vehicle in question: early model 6. 7 Cummins-equipped 3500 RAM. For quite some time I've noticed the inside of the tailpipe is coated with soot. Not a heavy coating, mind you but noticeable just the same. Does this indicate a cracked DPF or am I correct in assuming that it's normal for SOME soot to escape?



I don't mind the soot but will a possible cracked DPF cause any other problems further down the road? Thanks... .

 

[HBarlow]

We'll need more information in order for anyone to help you.

What year is the truck? How many miles on the odometer? Has it had the computer reflashes done? Any engine mods? How is it used ie grocery getter or frequent heavy towing? Has it had soot issues in EGR or turbo?

 

[sag2]

6. 7 exhaust pipes should be as clean as when you purchased the truck. Any soot indicates a cracked DPF. Aside from soot getting past that is supposed to be captured for emissions, no ill effects as long as it isn't throwing codes.

 

[Eddy]

Thanks for the replies. Harvey, the truck is a 2007. 5 with about 75k miles. It is totally stock and gets driven mainly around town with some highway mileage and occasional towing (12k fifth wheel). It has the latest flashes as far as I know (J35 being the last one a few years ago). The turbo was cleaned out about 2 years ago by a dealer and has been fine since. Truck runs very well otherwise.



I wonder if a cracked DPF could be beneficial since some of the soot is released, thereby not being trapped in the media and thus allowing fewer regens? Just a guess. I suppose the experts on this forum can venture an opinion... . thanks again.

 

[Bob4x4]

The dpf performance is also monitored so if it is very different from stock it will trip a code

 

[HBarlow]

Thanks for the replies. Harvey, the truck is a 2007. 5 with about 75k miles. It is totally stock and gets driven mainly around town with some highway mileage and occasional towing (12k fifth wheel). It has the latest flashes as far as I know (J35 being the last one a few years ago). The turbo was cleaned out about 2 years ago by a dealer and has been fine since. Truck runs very well otherwise.

I wonder if a cracked DPF could be beneficial since some of the soot is released, thereby not being trapped in the media and thus allowing fewer regens? Just a guess. I suppose the experts on this forum can venture an opinion... . thanks again.

Eddy,

Based on what you described I would suspect some soot in the tailpipe might be normal for your truck but I think sag2 above is a Chrysler service rep and knows the product better than I do. He is more likely to be correct.

I would not, however, get in a hurry to replace a very expensive DPF right away. I doubt a cracked one provides any advantage to you but check it again for soot after a trip pulling your trailer.

 

[Eddy]

Thanks again, everyone for your replies. I should be heading to Tucson in about a month where I know a good diesel mechanic (his shop is ironically within walking distance of a Dodge dealer). He'll be able to assist me in removal of any components for inspection, if necessary. You guys have been great!

 

[GunEBear]

Eddy, If you are stock and have an extended service plan, I believe the DPF should be covered if it is cracked.

 

[Bater]

The outlet of the tailpipe on my '08 6. 7 is like new, no soot or anything. That's because it's rusted out already!

Truck is going to the dealer tomorrow for a bunch of recall and warranty service. The sales writer wanted to know if there was any other (direct) service they could do, and was disappointed when I told him I do everything myself. I guess now I will let the dealer replace the tailpipe. I know the expense will shock me, versus just picking one up at NAPA. Thinking, maybe $300?

Andy

 

[Eddy]

Eddy, If you are stock and have an extended service plan, I believe the DPF should be covered if it is cracked.

Thanks, GunEBear but I don't have an extended warranty and I believe standard warranty coverage for emissions ended at 60k miles. There's a DPF cleaning service in Tucson I may check out, although they can't repair a cracked DPF. I may just have it cleaned out and not worry about the crack. The truck runs very well, BTW.