2019 Peterbilt 579 — Oil Capacity & Filter

The 2019 Peterbilt 579 takes between 38 and 48 quarts of engine oil, depending on the engine model.

Quick answer

• Oil Capacity: 38 to 48 quarts (36 to 45.4 liters) – Varies by engine. See "Capacity by Engine Option" table below.
• Recommended Oil Weight: SAE 10W-30 or 15W-40, depending on climate and engine manufacturer specifications.
• Oil Type Specification: API CK-4 or FA-4, depending on the engine manufacturer's recommendation.
• Oil Filter (PACCAR MX-13):
  • OEM: PACCAR 1963884PE
  • Wix: 57860
  • Fram: CH11749
  • Mobil 1: M1C-255A
• Oil Filter (Cummins X15):
  • OEM: Cummins 4367100
  • Wix: 57899
  • Fram: CH12204
  • Mobil 1: M1C-251A

Capacity by Engine Option

The 2019 Peterbilt 579 was available with several engine options, primarily the PACCAR MX-13 and the Cummins X15. Oil capacities vary significantly between these engines.

Oil Change Interval

Oil change intervals for the 2019 Peterbilt 579 depend heavily on the engine, operating conditions, and oil analysis results.

• Normal Duty: Typically 30,000 to 50,000 miles or 500 hours, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: Could be as low as 20,000 miles or 350 hours. Severe duty includes sustained heavy loads, excessive idling, or operation in extremely dusty environments.

Always consult your engine's owner's manual and consider oil analysis for precise interval determination.

Drain Plug Torque

The drain plug torque specification can vary depending on the engine. It is critical to use the correct torque to prevent leaks or damage to the oil pan.

• PACCAR MX-13: Typically 52 lb-ft (70 Nm). Always confirm with the PACCAR MX-13 service manual.
• Cummins X15: Typically 50 lb-ft (68 Nm) to 60 lb-ft (81 Nm). Always confirm with the Cummins X15 service manual.

Crush washers are not typically used on heavy-duty truck oil drain plugs, but a sealing washer or O-ring may be present. Inspect and replace if damaged.

How to change the oil

Changing the oil on a heavy-duty truck like the Peterbilt 579 is a more involved process than a passenger car and often requires specialized tools and facilities.

1. Warm the Engine: Run the engine to bring the oil to operating temperature for better drainage.
2. Park Safely: Park the truck on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the wheels.
3. Locate Drain Plug: Place a large drain pan (capable of holding 50+ quarts) under the oil pan drain plug. Due to the high capacity, ensure your pan is adequately sized.
4. Drain Oil: Carefully remove the drain plug and allow all old oil to drain completely.
5. Replace Drain Plug: Reinstall the drain plug, ensuring proper torque specific to your engine.
6. Replace Oil Filter(s): Locate and remove the old oil filter(s). Apply a thin coat of new oil to the gasket of the new filter(s) before spinning them on hand-tight, then tighten an additional 1/2 to 3/4 turn. Consult the filter manufacturer's instructions for precise tightening.
7. Refill Oil: Consult the "Capacity by Engine Option" table above and your owner's manual for the correct oil capacity and type. Add the specified amount of new, clean engine oil.
8. Check Level: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to circulate the new oil. Turn off the engine, wait a few minutes, and then check the oil level using the dipstick. Adjust if necessary.
9. Dispose of Old Oil: Properly dispose of used engine oil at an authorized recycling center.

Common issues / tips

• Oil Analysis: For heavy-duty applications, regular oil analysis is highly recommended. It can help optimize oil change intervals, detect potential engine issues early, and save money.
• Cold Weather Operation: In extremely cold climates, consider using a block heater to aid starting and ensure proper oil flow at startup.
• EGR and DPF Systems: Modern heavy-duty diesel engines with Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) and Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF) are sensitive to oil quality. Using the correct API CK-4 or FA-4 specification oil is crucial for the longevity of these systems.
• Turbocharger Care: Allow the engine to idle for a few minutes before shutting down, especially after heavy loads, to allow the turbocharger to cool down and prevent oil coking.
• Filter Quality: Always use high-quality oil filters that meet or exceed OEM specifications to ensure proper filtration and engine protection.

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