How to tell if '04 or 04.5?
 

I looked at an 04 2500 CTD 4x4 today. How do I tell if it is a 04.5 or just an 04?

The date of manufacture on the door jamb sticker is 3-04. The owner said the engine was "H.O.", but I did not notice any HO markings on the valve cover.

Also, the owner had receipts from a local shop where h just had the transmission serviced and the oil changed. The oil is PITCH BLACK even though it only has a few miles on it. I have been reading that this is normal and not an issue; but it still seems very strange to me. My current truck (99) keeps the Rot 15w-40 looking amber on the stick until about 4k (and I change it every 5k).

So, is this an 04 or 04.5? Which is "better"? Is the super-black engine oil something to worry about?

Thanks in advance for any and all replies.
--Matt

If it's an 04.5, the data tag on the engine will say "ISB 325", meaning 325 horsepower. If it is an 04, the tag should say ISB 305." I think on those engines, the data tag was somewhere close to the injection pump.

torquefan;

Thanks for the information. I won't be able to get a look at the truck again today. Is there any other way to tell if it is HO? I have the VIN number and build date.


Any thoughts on that black-oil situation?


Thanks again,

In my experience it represents no need for concern...The oil is doing its job by holding soot and particulate in suspension thereby preventing it from building up between bearing surfaces and on other parts...The oil reaches a saturation point when it can hold no more particulate and still retain lubricity...That is why regular oil and filter changes are recommended...Just follow your maintenance schedule, and don't worry about it...:cool:...Ben

2004.5 trucks came into being on Jan 1, 2004. If your door jamb shows 3-04, March 2004, the truck is a 2004.5 and it originally came with the 2004.5 engine.

But.... Who knows what engine is in a 15 year old truck? It could easily have a 6.7L and you wouldn't be able to tell without pulling the head off and measuring the cylinders.

Some other indications, are that a 2004.5 truck has the coolant overflow tank on the passenger side firewall.
The 2003-04 trucks have the coolant overflow tank by the washer fluid bottle on the drivers side.
Someone could have easily changed the turbo, exhaust and other differentiating items, but not likely the coolant overflow tank.

For a 15 year old truck, it doesn't really matter what engine is in there, as long as its in good shape. You will have much bigger issues and things to check on a truck that old.

For 2004.5 and newer engines, the oil gets instantly black as soon as you start it up after an oil change. It sucks but that's normal.

Good luck on the truck. They are great trucks but, like all trucks, they have their issues and quirks.