Buying your service parts as a kit saves money and makes sure you never start a job missing a seal. What belongs in the kit depends on your platform and how deep a service you are doing. This guide outlines a sensible diesel maintenance kit and calls out the platform differences. Refer to your owner's manual to confirm the exact parts and specifications for your truck.
The core service items
These belong in almost every diesel maintenance kit.
- Engine oil and oil filter: the correct quantity and viscosity for your engine.
- Fuel filter(s): one on many engines, two on the 6.0L Power Stroke; the 7.3L uses a bowl-mounted element.
- Air filter: replace or inspect on schedule.
- Cabin air filter: easy to forget and cheap to replace.
Cooling and drive items for a deeper service
- Coolant: the correct chemistry for your platform. Remember that 6.0/6.4/6.7 Power Stroke use gold-spec coolant, Duramax uses Dex-Cool, and Cummins uses an OAT diesel coolant.
- Serpentine belt and tensioner: worthwhile at higher mileage.
- Thermostat and hoses: good to have on hand for a cooling-system refresh.
Platform-specific additions
- Power Stroke and Duramax: glow plugs and, if needed, a glow plug controller for cold-start service.
- Cummins: no glow plugs; the grid heater is the cold-start component. Many owners add a lift pump and larger fuel filter on the 5.9L.
- Modern SCR trucks: keep certified DEF on hand for post-2010 trucks.
Fluids for a full driveline service
- Transmission fluid and filter: the specified fluid for your transmission.
- Differential gear oil: plus limited-slip additive if your axle requires it.
- Transfer case fluid (4WD): the specific fluid your case calls for.
Want a service kit matched to your exact truck so nothing is missing? Email sales@coredieselparts.com with your VIN and we will put the correct parts together.
Frequently asked questions
What should a basic diesel service kit include?
At minimum, engine oil and an oil filter, the correct fuel filter or filters, an air filter and a cabin filter. That covers the routine service most owners do most often.
Do I need glow plugs in my kit?
Only for Power Stroke and Duramax engines, and only when they are due by condition. Cummins engines have no glow plugs, so a grid heater is the relevant cold-start part on those trucks.
How do I make sure the kit fits my truck?
Match every part to your year, engine and configuration, and confirm specifications in your owner's manual. If you want it done for you, send your VIN to sales@coredieselparts.com and we will match the correct parts.
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