Fishugly wrote:
I've been asked to change the oil in my friend's 1981 Chevy Luv diesel. She lives in the boonies, 2 hours from town, and doesn't have a manual for it.
I change the oil in my own vehicles and have for more than 30 yrs. I've never done a diesel though. Is it roughly the same procedure as in a gas engine... or are there things I should be aware of?
And while here, I'll take suggestions on oil weights and filters. (she lives at 6,000 in the mountains, so see's temps from 90 to 20 below)
I can' think of anything that's special due to being diesel -- except that the used oil will be black black black. Don't worry, that's normal after even a short time. Oh, and the capacity may surprise you (that seems like a typical diesel thing). It's nearly 6 quarts.
For any diesel, always use a "C" rated oil. They're designed for compression-ignition (diesel) engines. I like Rotella T6 (full synthetic) in 15w50. I think it should be good for that temperature range, but check the chart. A lower viscosity MIGHT be needed for -20. I still change mine every 3,000 or so, just because I was raised that way.
You'll find the oil filter is "upside down". That makes it accessible from the top side (barely), but it makes it messy. There's not much clearance between it, the firewall, the block, the injection lines, and other stuff in there. A strap wrench is about the best tool for loosening it. Be ready to catch what runs out, if the filter hasn't had time to drain.
The filler cap is not threaded. I've seen people spin it for quite a while before realizing it just pulls out.
When pouring in oil, pour slowly and watch for backup. It drains slowly from the top end to the pan. Pour too fast, and you'll overflow.
If you put in about 5 quarts, it should appear full on the dipstick -- until after you start it. Once it's run long enough to fill the filter, it will be about 1/2 quart low. So you'll need to recheck and top it off. I generally pre-fill my filter before putting it on, but it's tricky covering the hole while trying to thread it on, without spilling much.
The drain plug has a washer on it. I've lost that more than once, and had to hunt through sooty old oil to find it.
That's about all I can think of.
Jack
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'83 Isuzu P'up Diesel LS - Original Owner
JoeIsuzu@IsuzuPup.comIsuzuPup.com