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otrfun's avatar
otrfun
Explorer II
Dec 30, 2014

Questions about Diesel Maintenance

My next truck (4x4, CC) has to have a minimum 3000 lbs. of payload. That leaves me with either a 1 ton diesel (3500-4000 lbs.) or a 3/4 - 1 ton gasser (3200-4000 lbs.).

I've run my gasser vs. diesel numbers as far as purchase price, MPG (towing & empty) and resale.

I'm familiar with what's needed to maintain a gasser; however, never owned a diesel. Here's what I know, don't know, about diesel maintenance:

1. Oil costs are approx. double vs. a gasser due to twice the oil capacity.
2. Oil filter. I assume these cost a bit more than a gas oil filter?
3. Fuel Filters. Assuming DIY replacement, what can I expect to pay for filters? How often?
4. DEF. 2-4 cents of DEF used per a gallon of diesel??
5. Valves. Under normal operating conditions is adjustment ever necessary? If necessary, cost?
6. Injectors. Under normal operating conditions is maintenance/replacement necessary? If necessary, cost?

Other diesel specific maintenance items I may have overlooked?

Thanks!

33 Replies

  • 1. Yes that's true
    2. I don't recall paying more than I did for my gasser.
    3) About $50 for my truck but that is for two filters. One under the hood and one under the truck.
    4) $11 (Walmart price) for about 3000 miles, or .37 cents per mile.
    6) No maintenance in the short term, maybe the 100K or higher mileage maintenance requires something. I haven't checked it.

    Your gasser has injectors now days so that's not unique to diesels. Except for the higher cost for oil changes I haven't noticed any major expenses that I didn't have with my gas engine truck.