1997 F-250 psd 4x4 First Diesel!!!! Oh yea, I'm happy

Just wodering what kind of preventative maintance should be done?
Also, I don't mind getting my hands dirty, so can you tell me in novice terms 'how to'... Thanks

 

If you don't know the history of the truck I would start by changing all the fluids. This would include the engine oil (14 quarts 15w-40 diesel rated), transmission fluid (Mercon, not Mercon V), transfer case (same fluid as tranny), both differentials (Synthetic 75w-140 in the rear, and 75w-90 up front), and drain and flush the cooling system. The coolant capacity is almost 8 gallons, and requires a supplimental coolant addative, which you can get at the dealer....it will need three pints.

 

Is this something I can do? Or should the first be done by dealership?
I've only changed plugs and wires on my old truck(not a diesel) so I really don't know what I am doing. However, I'm always willing to learn.!

 

Absolutely you can do it yourself. Nothing I listed is any more difficult than drain the old fluid and pour in the new...and other than the coolant addative, none of it is unique to the diesel engine.

Go to the parts store and pick up one of the cheap haynes service manuals for your truck and it will contain general "how to" information on all the routine maintenance you'll need.

I also neglected to mention the filters in my first post. Te oil, transmission, and fuel filters should also be replaced if you are unaware of there current service time.

Again....it is not hard. A decent service manual and some common hand tools are all that is neccessary to do this stuff.

 

Thanks for your reply. I just want to make sure I get the right fluids. I'm sure I can do it, however, I will need a 'how to' manual as well! Hopefully it has pictures too, so I know where everything is...lol.. I have been reading many posts and learning about the synthetic oil etc. Is it ok to use it, not knowing what is in it currently.?? I think the kid that owned the truck didn't take very good care of it. The truck is all stock, f-250 psd 4x4 cc with automatic trans. however, I'd like to get some info on these 'chips' that I read about. From what I have read, they help with mileage and power.. I like Power!! Thanks again !! :0)