After reviewing the owners manual (OM) and doing some searching here (which answered many more), I've got some newbie questions in no particular order or priority......<br><br>1. Shop Manuals. What do you recommend? I like to do my own maintanence. I'd prefer something more than Haynes etc., but don't think I need the entire dealer shop manual library.<br><br>2. Shift points. Just curious on what rpm's other folks are shifting at. For power vs economy.<br><br>3. How long is prolonged idling? <br><br>4. Engine oil filter? Where should I buy them? Dodge, Cummins, elsewhere (Wal-Mart, etc.?). I guess same goes for fuel filter.<br><br>5. How do I change fonts/colors in these posts and/or in my signature block?<br><br>Thanks, Chris<br><br>- picked up a new ballmount to pull the boat this morning (hope to go out at least once more this year); computer shows 16.0 mpg with 247 miles on the clock.<br><br>- Did I say that I love this truck? Now I need to find a place to put my old CC Ford gasser. I've still got over half a tank of diesel fuel left; do you know how many times I would have stopped and gassed up the Ford in 247 miles? What a truck!

 

1. Shop Manuals. What do you recommend? I like to do my own maintanence. I'd prefer something more than Haynes etc., but don't think I need the entire dealer shop manual library.<br><br>I have the complete set of manual from Chrysler. You can get them online. $150 I think.<br><br>2. Shift points. Just curious on what rpm's other folks are shifting at. For power vs economy.<br><br>I've got an auto..sorry.<br><br>3. How long is prolonged idling?<br><br>It's not recommend unless you can raise the idle rpm's. There are devices available, or you can use a good 'ol stick! <br><br>4. Engine oil filter? Where should I buy them? Dodge, Cummins, elsewhere (Wal-Mart, etc.?). I guess same goes for fuel filter.<br><br>There's a lot available here on filters. Fleetguard Stratapore is the recommended filter. Dodge sells a rebadged version, or you can get them from a Cummins rep, or online at www.genosgarage.com.<br><br>5. How do I change fonts/colors in these posts and/or in my signature block?<br><br>The blocks across the top of your entry will allow you to modify your posting.<br><br>Also, check out the FAQ section for answers to many of your questions, and welcome to the forum.<br><br>-Tom-<br><br>

 

Stay away from no-name filters. Thats all I can say. I know on GM trucks if you use a filter besides the AC Delco you can get a early morning knock in the engine, becuase the delco has a drain back valve in it... <br><br>Better off paying the difference and buying the filter from the dealer.

 

I concur with commatose. I've almost always purchased the Dodge Service Manuals. The 2003 Manual is not available last time I checked. You can purchase a variety of references at http://www.techauthority.daimlerchrysler.com/<br><br>Service Manuals are available in hard copy and CD-Rom. Prices are listed on-line.<br><br>I shift when RPM is above 2000 and below 2500 with my 5 spd and 4.10 axle. Torque curve is max starting about 1400 RPM. Getting 20 mpg on hwy 16.5 mpg in town. <br><br>I just ordered 2 Fleetguard Stratopore Filters #LF16035 for my 03. They were $8.95 each, total with shipping UPS ground came to under $23. This is the upgraded filter by Cummins. <br><br>In another 6 months you will find them available at local auto parts store.<br>Congratulations on the new truck.

 

Most of the parts for the Cummins that you purchase from the Dealer will be the exact same part you will buy from a Cummins store only the dealer usually has a 100% markup.
Geno's Garage www.genosgarage.com is a good place to purchase most all of your Diesel maint. items.
&quot;Prolonged Idleing&quot; is subjective but to me it's anything over 4-5 minutes.