Community Forums

broadrun · 09-05-2013, 09:06 AM

I have read the threads that detail correct engine oil levels and there is obviously a wide range depending on engine type/size, size of oil pan, etc. The reason i ask is because I can never seem to get the same reading off of my dipstick each time I check it. I have a 2001 ISC 8.3 which is believe has 330 HP. I have only changed the oil one time as we are relatively new owners. I seem to recall it taking 22 quarts to bring the oil to the top of the mark on the dipstick. Since then the results are varied. Just checked it and the level was at the low mark (i.e. add 4 quarts).

What procedures do you folks use for changing and the checking fill levels? Finally, per my thread subject, is oil pressure a good secondary/backup way to verify if you level is pretty close to being correct? I have been running at 60psi at 65 MPH.

Thanks in advance!
-Rob

gripper · 09-05-2013, 09:18 AM

No, you can't rely on good oil pressure, to let if your oil level is good also. Years ago, I bought my son, a car and kept after him, to "check the oil". One day, he called me and said the engine had died. I asked him a few questions, including the oil level. He said that the pressure has always been good. I checked the oil level and it showed ''bone dry". No telling how long it ran that way. Ruined the engine.

The only way to be sure, is to pull the stick and check the level yourself.

vsheetz · 09-05-2013, 09:33 AM

I like to check oil level after the engine has been sitting and not running for some period of time - say overnight. This allows oil in the engine to drain back down to the oil pan. When checking at other times, say when the engine was recently running, will vary. Checking both ways and you will likely develop a sense for what is OK after recent running.

As for oil pressure being a measurement of oil level - no way. Typically, only when the oil level gets dangerously low will oil pressure be affected.

Fuzzie · 09-05-2013, 09:37 AM

Checking the Dip Stick is the only way to know your oil level. The best way to do this is to check it after it has been off for some time and just before you start the engine. Try to be level that will help it be the same all the time. I check mine when engine is cold. I change my oil about every 10,000 miles or one year.

RustyJC · 09-05-2013, 09:48 AM

The 15W-40 oil typically used in diesel engines takes a LOT longer to drain back to the pan due to its higher viscosity. Therefore, to get accurate, reliable dipstick readings, I check the oil first thing in the morning after the engine has sat idle overnight.

As long as the oil pump pickup is covered, you'll have oil pressure. Only when oil level is disasterously low will you begin to see fluctuations in oil pressure as the oil pump intermittently sucks air.

Rusty

Steve Ownby · 09-05-2013, 10:43 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by broadrun

I have read the threads that detail correct engine oil levels and there is obviously a wide range depending on engine type/size, size of oil pan, etc. The reason i ask is because I can never seem to get the same reading off of my dipstick each time I check it. I have a 2001 ISC 8.3 which is believe has 330 HP. I have only changed the oil one time as we are relatively new owners. I seem to recall it taking 22 quarts to bring the oil to the top of the mark on the dipstick. Since then the results are varied. Just checked it and the level was at the low mark (i.e. add 4 quarts).

What procedures do you folks use for changing and the checking fill levels? Finally, per my thread subject, is oil pressure a good secondary/backup way to verify if you level is pretty close to being correct? I have been running at 60psi at 65 MPH.

Thanks in advance!
-Rob

I think you may be over filling your engine. A pre '03 ISC requires 22 qts to fill its oil system. A refill for oil change purposes will require less. Too be sure, you should call Cummins Tech Services with your engine # and ask them how much oil in the sump will bring the oil to the "add" mark on the stick. Then how much more to bring it to the "full" mark. At that point you can use these amounts to calibrate your dipstick by scribing new marks on your dipstick at add and full. The chassis builder puts the dipstick on and they are seldom accurate. Be sure to pre fill the oil filter and you should be good to go and it will be easier to maintain the appropriate oil level. A moderate over fill does no damage but will be ejected by the engine through the crankcase vent (aka slobber tube) in fairly short order & will find itself in your radiator & the front of your tow.