Alright guys, I am a rookie diesel owner and really don't want to part with the $500 needed to pay the dealer to do the 15K Mile Maintenance on my '05 2500. I just don't know if I can do it.

I have/do change my own oil, however that is about the extent of my mechanical expertise on any type of vehicle. I have good sense and generally take twice as long to do any job, because I read the directions about 4x before doing anything for fear of screwing something up.

I do have the necessary tools, its just the gumption (sp?) I'm lacking! Is it reasonable for me to think that I can do the 15K with the limited amount of experience that I have with this type of stuff? I know that there are directions for everything on this site, I just want the opinions of folks that have more experience with this type of thing than I do.

Thanks

Jason

 

Nothing in the 15K service is very difficult.

The dif fluid change is simple, just put a pan under it and unbolt the cover. Gasket is reuseable. If I recall, it's like 30 ft/lbs for the cover bolts.

Fuel filter is also simple. Put something under the drain to catch fuel, open the drain and let it drain, then unscrew the lid. When you pull the lid up, the filter element comes with it...

It might be helpful to purchase a service manual, though.

 

Make sure to replace the little o-ring gasket on the fuel filter cover, a new one will come with your filter. All you really need for any of this is a 3/8 drive ratchet, an oil filter wrench, and a larger crescent wrench for removing the fuel filter cap. A 3" extension is nice on the ratchet though. It's all pretty easy, the thing that'll take the longest is refilling your differential.

 

Just did mine this weekend. None of it is anymore difficult or complicated than changing engine oil.