Diesel engine oil - confused

[Bmoore_50]

This is certainly the simplest question ever posted but I am really confused.

I have a 2005 Dutchstar 350 diesel cummins engine and I need to put oil in it put don't know what kind.

The manual says to use a SAE 10-40 oil. Is this the same oil that you would use in a gasoline engine or is there a specific oil used for diesel engine?

[adehaan86]

Its different. Can't answer more them that.

[DennisZ]

For a diesel engine you need to use an oil like Chevron Delo 400 or Shell Rotella that is rated for a diesel service rating of API CH-4 or newer for your year engine, the new DPF engines require API CJ-4.

Dennis

[scgator]

As a former Cummins Technician, yes there is a difference; diesel oils are formulated to "handle" a higher carbon content because of the carbon that is contained in diesel fuel. That is why you can change the oil in a diesel today and 2 days later it is pitch black. The high carbon content of combusting diesel fuel is responsible for this. For years, Cummins has used Shell Rotella engine oil.

[KIX]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bmoore_50 The manual says to use a SAE 10-40 oil. Is this the same oil that you would use in a gasoline engine or is there a specific oil used for diesel engine?

The manual will also tell you the API (American Petroleum Institute) rating oil to use.
I used Shell Rotella 15 W 40 in my 8.3 liter 350 HP Cummins ISC before switching to synthetic. You can check but I feel pretty certain that Rotella will meet the API specs cited in your engine manual.

[RustyJC]

Shell Rotella or Chevron Delo 400 15W-40 dino oil will keep your Cummins happy for many hundreds of thousands of miles. If you're lucky, you might still find some API CI-4+ oil around, but the current requirement for most EGR, DPF and catalyst equipped diesels in the U.S. is CJ-4 - the additive package in the latter has been reformulated not for better engine protection but to reduce ash in the exhaust that plugs the emissions gear.

Rusty

[palehorse89]

Shell Rotella AT WAL-MART $29.98 @2.5 GAL.

[rebelone]

Shell Rotella 15w40, always used it in all my diesel engine trucks heavy equipment, over 40 years. Walmart has it.

[Bmoore_50]

Thanks to all who replied. It seems so simple but the manuals don't explain everything simply.

It is a pleasure to have so many helpful Rv'rs , such a nice family.

2005 Dutchstar 3815
2007 GMC Envoy 4wd

[chaperon]

Use a good quality series 3 engine oil - The Rowtella or Dello are just fine for your application, but definitely stay with a Fleetguard(Cummins) oil filter, The cost of the filter may be slightly higher than a jobber or will fitter, but the quality of the filter will insure a very long life for your engine - There is nothing close in quality.