Just like in a car, you should change the oil in a diesel truck after a few thousand miles. If you are mechanically inclined, you can do this procedure yourself and save money that you would have to pay for someone else to do it. Here are the steps in the process.

Get Your Supplies

Make a trip to the auto parts store to purchase the supplies you will need along with other areas of the truck you should check like the coolant filter. When you return to the garage, start the vehicle and let it warm up so the oil inside can start to move. Block off the tires after you turn it off. Secure the truck with the braking system to prevent it from moving as you work.

Drain the Old Oil

Carefully twist the oil cap off the engine of the truck. The motor will be warm from running so be cautious. Position the drain pan on a large piece of cardboard then slip them both across the floor until they are under the drain plug. Use a tool such as a wrench to remove the plug. Clean off the area, however, before you let the old oil go. Once all the oil is out of the truck, clean the plug area off again then screw the plug back on tightly.

Add the New Oil

Loosen the oil filter with a screwdriver and carefully remove so that the leftover oil inside stays within it instead of pouring out on you or the work area. Cover any vents that might lead to other parts of the truck. Wipe a layer of grease on the seals of the new filter and install it. Pour the new oil into the vehicle until it reaches the optimum level. Restart the truck to ensure that all the caps are tight and that the correct pressure is reached.