[Mike]

Hi there, I'm new to Ram and new to diesel. I see other threads about exhaust leaks and so on, but mine seems very intermittent.

Just bought a 2015 Ram ED Outdoorsman with 31K kms on it from a dealer. When first started in cold weather at dealership for test drive it STANK like how I'm used to diesels smelling (in the cab, but also outside) and then white smoke when I first started driving. By the end of the test drive: no white smoke, no smell whatsoever. I bought the truck (it has Gold Plus warranty at any rate) and have gone on some long trips. Only a very slight occasional diesel exhaust smell here and there, and NOT in the cabin. Many times I've checked outside front and back and can't smell a thing (and nothing inside). No notices about regeneration yet.

Is this something to worry about? At the end of the day, do these things stink occasionally?

Thanks for your help!!!

 

[seiko]

I have the ram 1500 ecodiesel, about 20,000km and smell in the cabin isn't good or normal. I can see an occasional occurrences, during REGEN and backdraft, window open, etc. I have the edge cs2 monitor, so one can check on REGEN, so that you don't shut off the vehicle during the high temperatures, that REGEN will result. You will smell something then for sure.

 

[Mike]

I have the ram 1500 ecodiesel, about 20,000km and smell in the cabin isn't good or normal. I can see an occasional occurrences, during REGEN and backdraft, window open, etc. I have the edge cs2 monitor, so one can check on REGEN, so that you don't shut off the vehicle during the high temperatures, that REGEN will result. You will smell something then for sure.

So it seems like a little diesel exhaust smell is ok here and there? With the main concern being if it is coming into the cabin??

Also, as a newbie, I thought the truck tells you if it is going through a regeneration - why do you need the extra monitor? I haven't seen a regen message yet, and maybe that's why haha.

Thanks!!!

 

[beavermike]

I believe if it goes through regen a message will display on the screen located on the steering column. If you toggle thru the screens using the buttons on your wheel there are some gauges such as time to oil change. Look at Trip A.

 

[Mike]

I believe if it goes through regen a message will display on the screen located on the steering column. If you toggle thru the screens using the buttons on your wheel there are some gauges such as time to oil change. Look at Trip A.

Funny thing: on way into work today I actually got a "DPF 80% full" message saying to go highway speeds and that a regeneration is occurring. The problem is that I was dropping off kiddies and then had to park it!!

So now what?? My default plan is to pick up kiddies and take them for a spin on the highway. But should I have just let it idle, or does that not do anything?

Sorry, I know this has been probably talked about many times - I've read through some posts but please do give me your opinion - sometimes new info comes to light!

Thanks

 

[beavermike]

you're doomed. Now that you let it idle the engine is ruined and it is noting but scrap. Trade it in and buy a Fiord.
Ok, sorry, I couldn't help myself. When you run the thing at hwy speeds or with a load it helps burn off and clean the DPF filter. So yes, take the kids to Disneyland and enjoy the ride.

 

[seiko]

There are several reason why you get a smell. This applies to all Diesel truck and brands, including Ford Diesel

The most common, your truck was in a middle of REGEN, the EGT3 and EGT4 temperatures are around 1100 to 1300F. You shut off the engine and parked. You will get a burning smell, and it can be strong. Probably will warp or cook some components. Also, you may start contaminating your oil, like diesel fuel and other chemical reaction, like acid, lack of lubrication, etc. See more details on another diesel forum. Do it a lot and you will get engine failure and coolant contamination perhaps.

No, the EVIC will not let you know, unless you hit 80 percent filter full. There is no other indicator than that and the next one which is 90 percent and it tell you to go to dealer.

That is why I have the EDGE Insight CS2. There was just too many contradicting info, it cleared it up for me.

During winter, I use winter covers (Provided free by FCA), it can add to the smell. Every vehicle, gas or diesel can smell or release odours and the person behind them, get a bit of it, in the cabin through your ventilation system or your window is open, plus wind blowing the right direction.

Is it healthy, no and all vehicles should not be putting out those odours. That means, taking off the road and fining heavy all those who remove or fail to maintain pollution devices. This can be political, so I go no further.

I suspect diesel truck are not for those who drive 10 miles or less a day and never on the highway.

With the Edge telling me what my Soot Level is, as it approaches over 65 percent, I plan ahead, but not always able, so I'm good for several tries and not have to high idle in park or take a special trip. Not a fuel friendly idea.