Bought my '03 Dodge diesel from a non-dodge dealership about 2 weeks ago. Truck has 27k miles on it. Dealership prior to my looking at the truck and finally making a deal, had put the truck through their shop and went over everything, as well as changing the engine oil, filter, air-filter and such.

I do not have contact with the first owner who put the 27k miles on the truck, so am not sure what oil they fed the truck, nor what oil the dealership used.

Paranoia tells me to change the oil again myself, so that I am certain it has oil made for the cummins diesel in it, but as mentioned, I don't know what to use.

Any advice on what would happen if I used a different brand oil at this time or would it matter? Also, what is a good oil to use and where should I look to get it?

Thanks again guys,
Rick

 

Shell Rotella and a good filter, either Mopar or Fleetgaurd.
Rotella is usually available at Wal Mart.

 

I use Chevron Delo400 with good results. Also available at my local Wal-Mart. I read that Mobil Delvac is good, both the Delvac1 and others, but I don't know if Synthetic in my 162k miles rig is worth it. I have read on here about several using Amsoil products, but I have absolutely no experience or further information on their products or usage. Use a high quality filter......Fleetguard gets the most votes. www.genosgarage.com has a really good deal for filter changes for our Dodges. Check them out.

 

I run Valvoline Premium Blue, and Fleetguard filters. Cummins parts house has Fleetguard filters usually cheaper than the dealership, and they also sell Premium Blue. Gino's is cheaper yet for filters, and Bi-Mart is often cheaper for Premium Blue...

There is also a synthetic version of Premium Blue, if you prefer. Many people have strong opinions about oil, and there are many fine choices.

 

I just switched from Premium Blue to Delo 400...same cost but will use Premium Blue next time if I can find it. Delo 400 smeels more than Premium Blue (Still way better than Rosmella!).

 

You have one option:

Mobil Delvac 1300 Super with Fleetguard Stratapore Filter

 

Be sure you use a 15W-40 weight oil, API rated CI-4.

 

Fleetguard filters, Delvac 1300 15W-40 with 3 to 4 qts of Mobil 1 Truck & SUV 5w-40 synthetic. The synthetic blend seems to help with the minor ticks and clacks.

 

5w40 is ok to use too... [most 5w40 are synthetic]