2004 Dodge Ram 3500 Pickup Owner Manual Diesel - Page 329

MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 329 Always check the condition of the used oil. This can give you an indication of some engine problems that might exist. • Thin, black oil indicates fuel dilution. • Milky discoloration indicates coolant dilution. Clean the area around the oil filter base. Remove the filter from the underside of the vehicle using a cap style oil filter wrench. Clean the gasket surface of the filter mount. The filter gasket can stick on the filter mount. Make sure it is removed. Change the engine oil filter with every engine oil change. Only a high quality MOPAR filter should be used to assure most efficient service. CAUTION! The filtering medium of other aftermarket filters may disintegrate. Debris from failed filters may plug the piston oil cooling nozzles, resulting in scuffed pistons and engine failure. CAUTION! Fill the oil filter element with clean oil before installation. Use the same type oil that will be used in the engine. When filling the oil filter, prevent foreign material from falling into the filter. Severe engine damage may occur. 7