got an "06" 3500 CTD with just coming up on 13K miles on it. planning to make a big trip over the holidays and will be pulling my toyhauler. question is should i get the 15K service done before i go, or wait until the mileage number comes around and do it when i get there?? that brings up another question. should i take it to a dealer for this service or should i get it done at a shop? i do use a downloader, but can back it out before i go if i should. does it leave a trace even though i back it out??

 

I have been remiss in doing mine and it has 50K on it. Will be changing diff oil, tranny fluid and transfer case fluid this coming week. I think you will be ok.

I do mine myself rather than pay the dealership,

I am in Henderson. Shoot me a PM if you want to do it yourself and need some help.

 

JeffnVegas,

Depends on which downloader that you have. The Smarty/Smarty Jr. are the only ones that I have heard of that don't leave a "footprint" in the trucks computer. I believe that the others leave a substantial footprint. Definately pull out the program before taking it to the dealer.

Regarding the 15,000 mile service, it probably isn't a bad idea just to get the initial wear metals & casting debris out of the axles, trans., etc. Besides, you will be satisfying the warranty requirements, as I understand.

My original axle gear lube was a bit cloudy when I changed it out. Ever since, the lube has been in fresh condition. The cloudy condition, as I understand, is caused by a gear teeth seating indicator paste that they put on during manufacture. I hear it does not degrade the gear oil, just looks bad. You're probably fine doing the change when you get back from your trip.

Not to knock the dealer but, lube changes will be very expensive from them. If you can do it yourself, or have ToyKraz help you out, you would probably save a bundle. And, you can use what ever quality lube product, you choose. To give you an idea, The Dodge dealer wanted $21.00/qt. for gear lube (75/90). This last change, I got Redline fully synthetic for $7.00/Qt. Redline is a very high quality product. By the way, your rear axle gasket is reusable. Just don't over tighten it. You can break the bolts fairly easily, as I understand. From my experience, I would extend the gear oil change past 15,000 miles after the first change. I even called the axle manufacturer (AAM) & they thought 15,000 was premature.

Joe F.(Buffalo)