DEF Issues
I drove a RAM 2500 diesel for 12 years until I upgraded to a pre-owned 2014 3500 diesel earlier this year. I knew nothing about DEF when I bought the "new" truck in March. My first introduction to D...
Forum Discussion
First, glad you finally got some good help and advise, although you must have had your serious concerns initially. At least now you know what to expect and how to handle it in the future.
Second, I was originally concerned about bio-diesel, but (in my Chevy), it's never caused any problems. From what I've read about diesel engines, they can run on chicken fat and French Fry grease! So, bio-diesel is a non-issue.
I don't have experience with Ram's, but in my Chevy, I don't have a gauge. I just get a warning notice, something like, Fill DEF in the next 750 miles. Then it goes away and pop-up again later with a lower mileage. I've not had problems filling before filling when that message comes up. And it seems, the more I'm using the truck, the less DEF it's actually taking. Seems my first fill up was right at 2000 miles, then 4000 miles, then 6000 miles, now it seems to be not empty and no warnings between oil changes (about 8000 miles), really weird, but I'm not complaining.
I think good old #2 diesel is still used for home heating, and the diesel at the pumps is a lot cleaner burning now.
And you are right using your exhaust brake. I love mine! I don't use it not towing as I drive on flat roads most of the time. But when traveling with trailer in tow, it's absolutely marvelous!
If cruise control is set, with diesel exhaust, and tow mode, you can tow with those 3500's through the mountains, and pretty much touch nothing but the steering wheel. It's really a sweet ride!
Good luck with your new truck! Gotta love those 3500's, there's nothing like them in the diesel world!
Second, I was originally concerned about bio-diesel, but (in my Chevy), it's never caused any problems. From what I've read about diesel engines, they can run on chicken fat and French Fry grease! So, bio-diesel is a non-issue.
I don't have experience with Ram's, but in my Chevy, I don't have a gauge. I just get a warning notice, something like, Fill DEF in the next 750 miles. Then it goes away and pop-up again later with a lower mileage. I've not had problems filling before filling when that message comes up. And it seems, the more I'm using the truck, the less DEF it's actually taking. Seems my first fill up was right at 2000 miles, then 4000 miles, then 6000 miles, now it seems to be not empty and no warnings between oil changes (about 8000 miles), really weird, but I'm not complaining.
I think good old #2 diesel is still used for home heating, and the diesel at the pumps is a lot cleaner burning now.
And you are right using your exhaust brake. I love mine! I don't use it not towing as I drive on flat roads most of the time. But when traveling with trailer in tow, it's absolutely marvelous!
If cruise control is set, with diesel exhaust, and tow mode, you can tow with those 3500's through the mountains, and pretty much touch nothing but the steering wheel. It's really a sweet ride!
Good luck with your new truck! Gotta love those 3500's, there's nothing like them in the diesel world!
