2023 International LT — Oil Capacity & Filter

The 2023 International LT takes between 36 to 44 quarts of oil, depending on the engine and oil pan configuration.

Quick answer

• Oil Capacity: 36-44 quarts (34-41.6 liters) – Consult your owner's manual or engine manufacturer specifications for exact capacity based on engine model and oil pan configuration.
• Recommended Oil Weight: 10W-30 or 15W-40 (CK-4/FA-4 rated) – Engine specific, always refer to your owner's manual.
• Oil Spec: API CK-4 or FA-4 (depending on engine and manufacturer recommendation)
• Oil Filter (Common examples - always verify with VIN):
  • OEM (Navistar N13): Consult your International dealer for the precise part number.
  • Aftermarket (Navistar N13 equivalent):
    • Fram: Consult Fram catalog based on specific engine and OEM filter number.
    • Wix: Consult Wix catalog based on specific engine and OEM filter number.
    • Mobil 1: Consult Mobil 1 filter catalog based on specific engine and OEM filter number.

Capacity by engine option

Note: Oil capacities can vary slightly based on oil pan design and other factory-installed options. Always verify with your vehicle's owner's manual or the engine manufacturer's specifications.

Oil change interval

Oil change intervals for the 2023 International LT can vary significantly based on the engine, duty cycle, and oil analysis results. Modern heavy-duty diesel engines often utilize oil life monitors and can extend intervals with synthetic oils and proper maintenance.

• Normal Duty: Typically 25,000 to 75,000 miles or 500-1,000 operating hours, whichever comes first. This applies to vehicles operating under typical highway conditions with consistent loads and minimal idling.
• Severe Duty: May be as frequent as 15,000 to 25,000 miles or 250-500 operating hours, whichever comes first. Severe duty includes conditions like frequent short trips, heavy loads, excessive idling, dusty environments, or extreme temperatures. It is highly recommended to perform oil analysis to determine optimal drain intervals for severe applications.

Always consult your owner's manual and engine manufacturer's guidelines for the most accurate and recommended oil change intervals for your specific 2023 International LT configuration.

Drain plug torque

The drain plug torque specification for the 2023 International LT will depend on the specific engine (Cummins X15, International A26, or International S13) and oil pan material. Over-torquing can damage the oil pan or drain plug, while under-torquing can lead to leaks.

• Cummins X15: Typically around 50-70 ft-lbs. Consult your Cummins engine manual for the exact specification.
• International A26/S13: Typically around 40-60 ft-lbs. Consult your International engine manual for the exact specification.

Always use a new crush washer or O-ring (if equipped) with each oil change to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks. Refer to the specific engine manufacturer's service manual for the exact torque specification and crush washer/O-ring requirements.

How to change the oil (General Steps)

1. Warm up the engine: Drive the truck for a few minutes to bring the oil up to operating temperature, which helps it drain more easily.
2. Park and secure: Park the truck on level ground, engage the parking brake, and chock the wheels. If lifting the truck, use appropriate heavy-duty jack stands.
3. Locate and prepare: Place a large oil drain pan (ensure it has sufficient capacity for 40+ quarts) under the engine's oil drain plug. You may need to remove an access panel.
4. Drain the oil: Carefully loosen and remove the drain plug with the appropriate wrench. Be prepared for a large volume of hot oil. Allow ample time for all the old oil to drain completely.
5. Replace drain plug: Once drained, clean the drain plug and install a new crush washer/O-ring. Reinstall the drain plug and tighten to the manufacturer's specified torque.
6. Remove and replace oil filter(s): Locate the oil filter(s). Using a suitable oil filter wrench, loosen and remove the old filter(s). Be prepared for oil spillage. Apply a thin coat of new oil to the gasket of the new filter(s) and hand-tighten until snug, then an additional 1/2 to 3/4 turn (or as per filter manufacturer's instructions).
7. Refill with new oil: Using a large funnel, add the recommended type and quantity of new engine oil. Start with a slightly lower amount than specified and check the dipstick frequently.
8. Check oil level: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to circulate the new oil. Shut off the engine, wait a few minutes for the oil to settle, then check the dipstick and top off as needed until the oil level is within the "full" marks.
9. Inspect for leaks: Visually check around the drain plug and oil filter(s) for any signs of leaks.
10. Dispose of old oil: Properly dispose of the used oil and filter(s) at an authorized recycling center.

Common issues / tips

• Oil Analysis is Key: For heavy-duty trucks like the International LT, especially those in commercial service, regular oil analysis is invaluable. It provides insights into engine wear, contamination, and remaining oil life, allowing for optimized oil change intervals and early detection of potential issues.
• Correct Oil Specification: Always use oil that meets the precise API specification (CK-4 or FA-4) and viscosity grade recommended by the engine manufacturer. Using the wrong oil can lead to premature wear, reduced fuel economy, and potential warranty voidance.
• Large Capacities Equal Large Messes: Be prepared for the substantial volume of oil when performing an oil change on these engines. Ensure your drain pan is adequately sized and positioned.
• Multiple Filters: Some heavy-duty engines may have more than one oil filter. Ensure you locate and replace all of them.
• Fuel Dilution and Soot: Heavy-duty diesel engines are susceptible to fuel dilution and soot accumulation in the oil. Oil analysis can help monitor these factors, which can degrade oil performance.
• DEF System Impact (Diesel Exhaust Fluid): While not directly tied to oil capacity, proper engine and exhaust system function (including DEF) are interconnected. Ensure all systems are maintained correctly for optimal engine health and compliance.

Need an oil change? Find a trusted shop on Repairius.