Choosing the correct oil for your 2021 Ram 3500 Diesel is vital for maximizing engine performance, longevity, and efficiency. This guide offers detailed, factual information to help you select the best oil type, understand specifications, and learn about oil change intervals.
Recommended Oil Type and Specifications for the 2021 Ram 3500 Diesel
Proper lubrication is crucial for your Ram 3500’s engine, designed to handle demanding tasks. Here are the key specifications for your vehicle:
- Recommended Oil Type: Fully synthetic 15W-40 or 5W-40 diesel engine oil meeting API CK-4 and CUMMINS specifications.
- Oil Capacity: Approximately 12 quarts (11.4 liters) with a filter change.
- Engine Type: 6.7L I6 turbocharged Cummins diesel engine.
Using the correct oil is essential, as it enhances lubrication and protects engine components, akin to ensuring your engine remains well-hydrated for peak performance.
Importance of Quality Oil for the 2021 Ram 3500 Diesel
High-quality engine oil plays a pivotal role in maintaining engine health. It lubricates moving parts, regulates temperature, and aids in the removal of contaminants. Regularly using the correct oil type not only prevents wear but also prolongs engine life.
Top Engine Oils for the 2021 Ram 3500 Diesel
1. Shell Rotella® T4 10W-30 Diesel Oil
- Purpose: Provides essential protection for diesel engines.
- Wear Protection: Effectively reduces engine wear and deposits.
- Heat Resistance: Improved resistance to oil breakdown at high temperatures.
- Fuel Economy: Enhanced oil stability contributes to better fuel efficiency.
- Cleanliness: Fewer deposits help keep engines cleaner during the oil drain interval.
- Base Oil: Formulated with conventional base oils.
2. Castrol VECTON Multi-Fuel CK-4/NG 10W-30
- Compatibility: Suitable for heavy-duty diesel and natural gas engines.
- Extended Oil Life: Engineered to ensure longer oil life.
- Systems Support: Works effectively with EGR, DPF, DOC, and SCR systems.
- Specifications: Meets API CK-4, Cummins CES 20092, and API SN.
- Performance: Offers up to 42% extra performance reserve.
- Oxidation Control: Reduces deposits and neutralizes acids.
- Viscosity Stability: Maintains viscosity even at high temperatures.
3. AMSOIL 10W-30 Heavy-Duty 100% Synthetic Diesel Oil
- Protection Level: Provides 4X more wear protection compared to Detroit Diesel’s standards based on third-party testing.
- Engine Life: Designed to maximize equipment life and reduce maintenance costs and downtime.
- Viscosity Control: Resists oxidation and thickening from soot, retaining viscosity after high-temperature operation.
- Oil Consumption: Provides up to 66% less oil consumption than API CK-4 standards, per Caterpillar-1N oil consumption test.
- Temperature Performance: Delivers protection in both hot and cold extremes.
- Heat Resistance: Improved heat and oxidation resistance over conventional diesel oils.
- Cold Performance: Ensures dependable flow in cold temperatures, aiding in easier starts and better engine protection.
All three oils are suitable for the 2021 Ram 3500 Diesel, providing reliability and protection for heavy-duty performance. For more information about the exceptional torque and towing capabilities of the 2021 Ram 3500, click here.
How to Change Oil in Your 2021 Ram 3500 Diesel
Performing an oil change can be straightforward if executed correctly. Follow these steps to ensure a successful oil change:
- Gather Necessary Tools: Assemble your fully synthetic oil (15W-40 or 5W-40), a compatible oil filter, a wrench, oil drain pan, and a funnel.
- Locate the Drain Plug and Oil Filter: Park on a level surface and, if necessary, use jack stands for safety.
- Drain the Old Oil: Remove the drain plug and let the old oil drain completely into the pan.
- Replace Oil Filter: Remove the old filter and install the new one securely.
- Add New Oil: Replace the drain plug and add the new oil using a funnel, ensuring not to overfill.
- Check Oil Levels: Start the engine, let it run for a few minutes, and check the dipstick to ensure the oil level is correct.
Recommended Oil Change Interval for the 2021 Ram 3500 Diesel
The recommended oil change interval for the 2021 Ram 3500 Diesel is every 7,500 to 10,000 miles, depending on driving conditions. Be mindful of more frequent changes if you often drive in extreme conditions or heavy loads. Always refer to the owner’s manual for specific guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use conventional oil in my Ram 3500 Diesel?
A: It is recommended to use fully synthetic oil that meets API CK-4 standards for optimal performance.
Q: How do I know when my oil needs to be changed?
A: Routine checks of the oil level and color using the dipstick can indicate when a change is needed. If the oil appears dark or contaminated, it’s time for a change.
Q: Is it acceptable to mix different oil brands?
A: While mixing brands is generally discouraged, you can mix as long as the oil complies with the required specifications. However, for consistency, stick to one brand.
Key Takeaways
Use 15W-40 or 5W-40 fully synthetic oil that meets API CK-4 specifications for optimal performance in your 2021 Ram 3500 Diesel.
Recommended oils include Shell Rotella® T4 10W-30, Castrol VECTON Multi-Fuel CK-4/NG 10W-30, and AMSOIL 10W-30 Heavy-Duty 100% Synthetic Diesel Oil.
Maintain oil change intervals of 7,500 to 10,000 miles to ensure long-term engine performance.
Proper maintenance helps ensure the longevity and efficiency of your 2021 Ram 3500 Diesel.
By selecting the right oil and adhering to a regular maintenance schedule, you can ensure your Ram 3500 Diesel performs reliably and efficiently for many years. For more details on high-performance motor oils, explore HERE for Shell Rotella T4 10W-30, HERE for Castrol VECTON, and HERE for AMSOIL 10W-30 Heavy-Duty 100% Synthetic Diesel Oil.