Best Oil For 2019 Ram 2500 Diesel: Top Choices

by Alex Braham 47 views

Choosing the best oil for your 2019 Ram 2500 diesel is crucial for maintaining its performance, longevity, and overall health. Your truck's engine is a powerhouse, and like any high-performance machine, it needs the right lubrication to operate efficiently. In this article, we'll dive deep into the world of diesel engine oils, focusing on the specific needs of your 2019 Ram 2500. We'll explore different types of oils, discuss viscosity grades, examine the importance of industry certifications, and recommend some top-notch products that will keep your Cummins engine purring like a kitten (a very powerful kitten, that is!). So, buckle up and get ready to learn everything you need to know about selecting the perfect oil for your trusty Ram.

Understanding Your 2019 Ram 2500 Diesel's Oil Requirements

Before we jump into specific oil recommendations, let's lay the groundwork by understanding the specific requirements of your 2019 Ram 2500 diesel engine. This truck typically houses a 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel engine, a beast known for its power and durability. However, this engine also has specific lubrication needs to ensure it lives a long and healthy life.

Viscosity Grades

Viscosity refers to an oil's resistance to flow. The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) has developed a grading system to classify oils based on their viscosity at different temperatures. You'll often see oil grades like 15W-40 or 5W-40. Let's break down what these numbers mean:

  • The number before the "W" (e.g., 15W or 5W) indicates the oil's viscosity at cold temperatures. A lower number indicates that the oil will flow more easily in cold weather, which is crucial for cold starts.
  • The number after the "W" (e.g., 40) indicates the oil's viscosity at high temperatures. This number represents the oil's ability to maintain its thickness and lubricating properties when the engine is hot.

For your 2019 Ram 2500 diesel, the manufacturer typically recommends a 15W-40 oil for most operating conditions. However, in colder climates, a 5W-40 oil might be a better choice to ensure adequate lubrication during cold starts. Always consult your owner's manual for the most accurate and up-to-date recommendations.

Industry Certifications

When choosing an oil, pay close attention to industry certifications. These certifications ensure that the oil meets specific performance standards and is suitable for use in diesel engines. Two key certifications to look for are:

  • American Petroleum Institute (API): The API develops standards for engine oils, and you'll typically see an API donut symbol on the oil container. For diesel engines, look for oils with a CJ-4 or CK-4 rating. These ratings indicate that the oil is formulated to meet the demands of modern diesel engines, including those with exhaust aftertreatment systems.
  • Cummins CES 20081: This is a specific certification from Cummins, the manufacturer of your truck's engine. Oils that meet the CES 20081 standard have been tested and approved for use in Cummins engines. Using a Cummins-approved oil can provide added peace of mind.

Oil Types: Conventional, Synthetic Blend, and Full Synthetic

Engine oils come in three main types:

  • Conventional Oil: This is the most basic type of oil, refined directly from crude oil. It's generally the least expensive option, but it may not offer the same level of protection and performance as synthetic oils.
  • Synthetic Blend Oil: This is a mixture of conventional and synthetic oils. It offers a compromise between price and performance, providing better protection than conventional oil but at a lower cost than full synthetic oil.
  • Full Synthetic Oil: This is the highest quality type of oil, engineered in a lab to provide superior protection and performance. Full synthetic oils typically offer better wear protection, improved high-temperature performance, and enhanced cold-start capabilities. They also tend to last longer than conventional or synthetic blend oils, allowing for extended oil change intervals.

For your 2019 Ram 2500 diesel, a full synthetic oil is generally the best choice due to its superior protection and performance benefits. While it may be more expensive upfront, the long-term benefits for your engine's health and longevity make it a worthwhile investment.

Top Oil Recommendations for Your 2019 Ram 2500 Diesel

Now that we've covered the basics, let's dive into some specific oil recommendations for your 2019 Ram 2500 diesel. These oils have been selected based on their performance, certifications, and suitability for use in Cummins engines.

1. Shell Rotella T6 Full Synthetic 5W-40

Shell Rotella T6 is a popular and highly regarded full synthetic oil that's well-suited for diesel engines. It offers excellent wear protection, improved fuel economy, and enhanced cold-start performance. The 5W-40 viscosity grade makes it a good choice for colder climates. It meets or exceeds the requirements of API CK-4 and Cummins CES 20081.

Why it's a good choice:

  • Excellent wear protection for long engine life
  • Improved fuel economy compared to conventional oils
  • Enhanced cold-start performance
  • Meets or exceeds API CK-4 and Cummins CES 20081

2. Mobil 1 Delvac 1 ESP 5W-40

Mobil 1 Delvac 1 ESP is another top-tier full synthetic oil designed for heavy-duty diesel engines. It provides exceptional protection against wear, corrosion, and deposit formation. Its advanced formulation helps to extend engine life and reduce maintenance costs. Like the Shell Rotella T6, it also meets or exceeds the requirements of API CK-4 and Cummins CES 20081.

Why it's a good choice:

  • Exceptional wear protection
  • Excellent corrosion resistance
  • Helps to reduce deposit formation
  • Meets or exceeds API CK-4 and Cummins CES 20081

3. Amsoil Signature Series Max Duty Synthetic Diesel Oil 15W-40

Amsoil is known for producing high-performance synthetic lubricants, and their Signature Series Max Duty Synthetic Diesel Oil is no exception. This oil is specifically formulated to provide maximum protection for diesel engines operating under severe conditions. It offers superior wear protection, excellent high-temperature performance, and extended drain intervals. It meets or exceeds the requirements of API CK-4 and Cummins CES 20081.

Why it's a good choice:

  • Superior wear protection for maximum engine life
  • Excellent high-temperature performance
  • Extended drain intervals
  • Meets or exceeds API CK-4 and Cummins CES 20081

4. Valvoline Premium Blue Extreme 5W-40

Valvoline Premium Blue Extreme is a full synthetic oil that's specifically endorsed by Cummins. It's formulated to provide exceptional protection for Cummins engines, including those with exhaust aftertreatment systems. It offers excellent wear protection, improved fuel economy, and enhanced cold-start performance. It meets or exceeds the requirements of API CK-4 and Cummins CES 20081.

Why it's a good choice:

  • Endorsed by Cummins
  • Excellent wear protection
  • Improved fuel economy
  • Enhanced cold-start performance
  • Meets or exceeds API CK-4 and Cummins CES 20081

5. Schaeffer Oil 9000 Full Synthetic 5W-40

Schaeffer Oil 9000 is a lesser-known but highly regarded full synthetic oil that provides exceptional protection and performance for diesel engines. It's formulated with a unique blend of synthetic base oils and additives to provide superior wear protection, improved fuel economy, and enhanced cold-start capabilities. It meets or exceeds the requirements of API CK-4 and Cummins CES 20081.

Why it's a good choice:

  • Exceptional wear protection
  • Improved fuel economy
  • Enhanced cold-start capabilities
  • Meets or exceeds API CK-4 and Cummins CES 20081

Factors to Consider When Choosing Oil

Choosing the right oil involves considering several factors to ensure optimal engine performance and longevity. Here's a breakdown of key aspects to keep in mind:

  • Climate and Operating Conditions: Consider the typical temperatures and operating conditions your truck experiences. If you live in a cold climate, a 5W-40 oil might be a better choice for easier cold starts. If you frequently tow heavy loads or operate in extreme conditions, a full synthetic oil with robust wear protection is essential.
  • Manufacturer Recommendations: Always consult your owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommended oil viscosity and specifications. Following these recommendations will help ensure that your engine receives the proper lubrication and protection.
  • Oil Certifications: Look for oils that meet or exceed the latest API and Cummins certifications. These certifications ensure that the oil has been tested and approved for use in diesel engines.
  • Budget: While it's important to choose a high-quality oil, it's also important to consider your budget. Full synthetic oils are generally more expensive than conventional or synthetic blend oils, but they offer superior protection and performance. Weigh the cost against the benefits to determine the best option for your needs.
  • Oil Change Intervals: Follow the manufacturer's recommended oil change intervals, which are typically specified in your owner's manual. However, if you frequently operate under severe conditions, you may need to shorten the oil change intervals.

Maintaining Your 2019 Ram 2500 Diesel's Oil

Maintaining your 2019 Ram 2500 diesel's oil is crucial for ensuring its long-term health and performance. Here are some essential maintenance tips:

  • Regular Oil Changes: Adhere to the recommended oil change intervals specified in your owner's manual. Regular oil changes remove contaminants and replenish the oil's additives, keeping your engine properly lubricated and protected.
  • Use a High-Quality Oil Filter: The oil filter plays a vital role in removing contaminants from the oil. Use a high-quality oil filter that's designed for diesel engines to ensure optimal filtration and engine protection.
  • Check the Oil Level Regularly: Check the oil level at least once a month, or more frequently if you notice any signs of oil leaks or consumption. Maintaining the proper oil level is essential for adequate lubrication.
  • Monitor Oil Pressure: Keep an eye on the oil pressure gauge while driving. Low oil pressure can indicate a problem with the oil pump or oil level, which can lead to engine damage.
  • Address Oil Leaks Promptly: If you notice any oil leaks, address them promptly to prevent further damage to your engine. Oil leaks can lead to low oil levels and reduced lubrication.

Conclusion

Choosing the best oil for your 2019 Ram 2500 diesel is an investment in its longevity and performance. By understanding your engine's specific requirements, considering the factors discussed in this article, and selecting a high-quality oil that meets or exceeds industry certifications, you can ensure that your Cummins engine remains healthy and powerful for years to come. Remember to consult your owner's manual for the most accurate and up-to-date recommendations, and don't hesitate to seek advice from a qualified mechanic if you have any questions or concerns. Happy driving!