cumming diesel engine

[alfredcycle]

i was looking at a 2001 370 cummings diesel they told me that the oil had been changed about 1500miles ago i checked the level and when i pulled out the dip stick the oil was black they told me when you change the oil and then start it up the oil will turn black right away that didn't sound right any opinions thank alfred first timer

[wb7auk]

No it will not turn black right away but it does not take to much run time and it will.
It all depends on how often the oil and filter were changed and how hard the engine
is being worked. Also the brand of oil figs in there.
I change my oil and filters way more often than most.

[vettehead]

Diesel oil will turn black shortly after starting the engine. No problem.

[larry koenn]

Yep, the guy is about right. Seems like if you drive one about a block the oil looks terrible. Actually you should feel it, if it feels really gritty then it's probably in need of a change.

I change mine once a year and that amounts to about 30,000 miles. My M11 holds ten gallons so it's not something you do every 5000 miles. I'll bet there will be some who respond saying the do change at 5000 miles, and that's ok. I don't think its necessary though. More often on a gas engine though, and they don't hold as much.

[vito.a]

Yes, diesel engines turn the oil black rather fast. The Cummins ISL is a great engine with 1200 ft lbs of torque.
If you are concerned about the condition of the engine, send an oil sample to Blackstone labs for analysis. I would also send in a sample from the Allison transmission and rear axle.

[RVRon]

Originally Posted by vito.a

Yes, diesel engines turn the oil black rather fast. The Cummins ISL is a great engine with 1200 ft lbs of torque.
If you are concerned about the condition of the engine, send an oil sample to Blackstone labs for analysis. I would also send in a sample from the Allison transmission and rear axle.

Ditto for me. You really would not want to bear the cost of an overhaul no matter how cheaply you bought the coach.