I just ordered a 2004.5 2500 QC CTD 4x4. Since I am new to diesel, and I haven't seen a thread of this kind, can you guys give me a list of do's and don'ts so I can get started off on the right foot? Any misconceptions or rumors about maintenance that should be avoided or listened to. Can't wait til it gets here.

 

There is a FAQ section in Tech Facts area at the top of the page. That should get you started.

Boyd.

 

Welcome to the site! You might want to use the search function to look for threads on "break in." Check your manual when you get it and follow the guidelines there. One thing you don't want to do is baby the engine. Work it hard. That will help seat the rings. A lot of guys like to change the oil and filter after the first 1000 miles or so. Also, you might want to check the rear differential for fluid level. Dodge has been known to ship trucks with a low fluid level. If you are thinking of changing to synthetic oil, use dino for the first 10,000 miles or so. Again, if you change to synth too soon, the rings don't seat properly.

I can't think of anything else, but I'm sure others will speak up with more info. Drive it and enjoy it!

DeWain

One more thing: When you fill up, make sure that you have a diesel filler hose in your hand, NOT the unleaded. That can really ruin your day.

 

Welcome to this site.
DON"T drive it like grandma
DO drive it like you stole it.
Enjoy. Smile lots.

 

Yep, don't baby it, but don't hotrod it or abuse it, at least for the first few hundred miles.

Don't tow for 500 miles then max 50mph for the next 500 (if you tow before 1000 miles).

Don't let it idle very long to warm it up, a minute or two is plenty then take off, driving gently.

Vary RPM during the first few hundred miles and avoid idling as much as possible (I ran the RPM up & down while waiting at lights the first week I had mine).

Do NOT use Fram oil filters!!!! Say NO to Fram!

OK, have fun with your new ride Stew!

Vaughn

 

Carry a spare fuel filter. If you should get a load of water on fillup, you will need it to get going again.

Read the operaters manual several times.

Happy driving! I love to drive my CTD.

 

Yes, yes and yes. AND Don't use Fram filters. Get Fleetguards from Genos. If your in a REALLY cold climate, like 30 below zero, synthetic in the engine is a wise choice. Otherwise, I personally think your wasting your money. However, opinions on synthetics are like noses, everyone has one.

Choose it, pay for it, and drive it. It does not need breast milk, nor it's diaper changed. Just follow the service manual and smile.

 

GOOD advice.

 

Try to very the speed when you are breaking it in don't get on I-5 and drive at 80 for 5 hours when you first get it.

Try to get a trailer to tow at about 500 miles and keep it under 50 thats mostly for the rear end not the engine. My truck didn't feel broken in until midway through last summer after it's third long trailer trip I was passing a Ford 6 L on the Vantage hill and it dawned on me this truck is broken in

 

Put on mudflaps, front and rear, as soon as you get it home. The way the body curves under, you will get rock chips in your paint in no time at all.

The Boss Hog
(32,500 care free miles . . . . )