For the 2012 Ram 5500 Pickup with the 6.7L 6-cylinder [L] ETJ L Diesel Turbo engine, the oil capacity is 12 quarts (including filter). The recommended viscosity is 15W-40 for ambient temperatures above -18°C (0°F), and 5W-40 is required for temperatures below -18°C to prevent severe engine damage. AMSOIL recommends using high-quality synthetic diesel oils like Signature Series 5W-40 Max-Duty Diesel Oil.
What oil does a 2012 Ram 5500 6.7L diesel take?
The 2012 Ram 5500 with the 6.7L engine requires an oil viscosity of 15W-40 for temperatures above -18°C (0°F). If you are operating in ambient temperatures below -18°C, you must use SAE 5W-40 synthetic engine oil to avoid severe engine damage. The AMSOIL lookup notes that the oil should meet API CJ/CK-4 standards and MS-10902 specifications.
The total oil capacity for this vehicle is 12 quarts when performing an oil change with a new filter. To ensure accuracy, after changing the oil, start and run the engine to operating temperature, then stop the engine and wait approximately 30 minutes. This allows the oil in the upper parts of the engine to drain back into the pan before you perform a final level check.
AMSOIL product recommendations
Based on the AMSOIL lookup for your 2012 Ram 5500, here are the recommended fluids and filters to maintain engine performance and longevity.
Engine Oil Options
| Product Name | Viscosity | Part Number |
|---|---|---|
| AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-40 100% Synthetic Max-Duty Diesel Oil | 5W-40 | DEOQT-EA |
| AMSOIL 5W-40 Heavy-Duty 100% Synthetic Diesel Oil | 5W-40 | ADOQT-EA |
Note: The AMSOIL lookup note specifies using API CJ/CK-4 oil that meets MS-10902. Oil meeting Cummins CES 20081 standards may also be used. Low ash diesel engine oil is required.
Oil Filter Options
| Product Name | Part Number |
|---|---|
| AMSOIL Oil Filter | EAO80-EA |
| WIX XP Oil Filter | 57620XP-EA |
| WIX Oil Filter | 57620-EA |
Air Filter Options
| Product Name | Part Number |
|---|---|
| WIX Air Filter | 46930-EA |
| Donaldson P-Series Heavy Duty Air Filters | P616743-EA |
Coolant Recommendation
| Product Name | Part Number |
|---|---|
| AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant | ANTPC1G-EA |
How much oil does it take with a filter change?
Engine Oil Specifications & Details
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Oil Grade (AMSOIL lookup) | SEO39 |
| Drain Plug Torque | 37 ft/lbs |
| Required Oil Type | Low ash diesel engine oil |
Diesel maintenance notes for this vehicle
- Temperature Warning: Failure to use SAE 5W-40 synthetic engine oil in ambient temperatures below 0 F (-18 C) could result in severe engine damage.
- Oil Drain Procedure: When changing oil, allow the engine to reach operating temperature before draining, then wait 30 minutes after stopping to let residual oil drain back into the pan.
- Specification Compliance: Ensure your oil meets API CJ/CK-4 and MS-10902 standards; Cummins CES 20081 standards are also acceptable.
Common diesel oil-related concerns and how AMSOIL products may help
Heavy-duty diesel engines face unique stresses that standard lubricants may not be equipped to handle.
| Concern | Why it matters | AMSOl Product | How it may help | Limitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Wear | High-stress commercial use increases friction. | DEOQT-EA | Delivers up to 6X more wear protection. | Requires proper service intervals. |
| Extreme Temperatures | Viscosity changes can affect lubrication. | ADOQT-EA | Excels in extreme temperatures. | Must match viscosity to ambient temp. |
| Contamination | Small particles cause abrasive wear. | EAO80-EA | 99% efficiency at 20 microns. | Filter must be replaced per schedule. |
Recall, TSB, and manufacturer communication notes
NHTSA recall research for the 2012 Ram 5500 Pickup identified several items of concern:
- Wheel Studs/Lug Nuts: A recall (Campaign 21V398000) was issued because incorrect information in manuals could lead to over-tightened flanged lug nuts, potentially causing broken wheel studs or wheel separation. Dealers are instructed to update torque specifications and inspect studs.
- Fire Extinguishers: A recall (Campaign 17V824000) affects vehicles equipped with certain Kidde fire extinguishers that may become clogged or have nozzles that detach.
Note: Always verify open recalls by your specific VIN through official manufacturer channels or the NHTSA website.
About this vehicle
The 2012 Ram 5500 is a heavy-duty commercial chassis cab vehicle produced by the Ram Trucks division, operating as part of Stellantis North America. Unlike light-duty consumer pickups, the 5500 series is designed for medium-duty commercial applications, often utilized with specialized vocational bodies such as service beds, dump bodies, or towing platforms.
A defining characteristic of this vehicle class is its integration with Cummins diesel engines. The 6.7L diesel engine is a high-performance powerplant where maintenance protocols are heavily dictated by the requirements of the Cummins engine family. Because these vehicles are often used in high-stress commercial environments, owners and fleet managers should prioritize rigorous maintenance schedules focusing on heavy-duty filtration, cooling system integrity, and diesel fuel quality.
Due to the vocational nature of this chassis cab, specific technical details like exact horsepower or torque ratings should be verified through a dedicated service manual. Maintenance is critical for maximizing uptime in commercial settings.
Common questions about this vehicle’s diesel oil and maintenance
What is the oil drain plug torque for my 2012 Ram 5500?
The oil drain plug should be torqued to 37 ft/lbs.
Can I use 15W-40 in freezing temperatures?
No. For ambient temperatures below -18°C (0°F), you must use SAE 5W-40 synthetic engine oil to avoid severe engine damage.
How often should I change my oil filter?
While specific intervals depend on usage, AMSOIL offers filters like the WIX XP which can support drain intervals up to 25,000 miles under certain conditions.
What oil specifications are required for the 6.7L Cummins engine?
The AMSOIL lookup note references API CJ/CK-4 and MS-10902 standards, as well as Cummins CES 20081.
Does my Ram 5500 need low ash oil?
Yes, the AMSOIL lookup notes that low ash diesel engine oil is required for this application.
How do I ensure my engine is fully drained of old oil?
After changing the oil, run the engine to operating temperature, stop it, and wait approximately 30 minutes before checking the level and topping off.
Disclaimer: This information is derived from provided source data. Always consult your owner’s manual and verify all specifications with a certified mechanic or official manufacturer documentation.