Leaking 1/2 gal every 2k, should I just change filter

Leaks don't just get better or stay the same by themselves, that leak will have you putting a gallon a day in it before long, and then you won't be able to keep oil in it at all. I'm not suggesting you tear it down next week, but it's inevitable. Neither of those seals is replaced in a regular inframe overhaul, so you'll be that far ahead when it comes time to rebuild.

 

Couldn't agree more. If it were mine I would degrease and wash the entire engine and crank it and let it run all day if needed, til I found my leaks. I would start at the top looking for valve cover leaks, especially at the back, often they just need tightened or at the worse new rubber around them an easy fix that you can do yourself. Also check around the oil cooler which isn't that bad to fix either if need be. If it's leaking around the oil pan it may need tightened or a new gasket which you can also do yourself in a couple hours. If it is leaking at the front or rear main then you should probably let a good mechanic do that as it is not a easy fix,but could be done in a days time. Remember when looking for leaks fluids don't run up hill or forward, always down & back.

 

when i worked for roadway they had a webb dripper system that dripped in a quart of oil from the engine into the fuel tanks every 350 miles and just topped off oil.....never changed oil just filters at 40,000 miles. they had alot of trucks over a million miles on cummins,detroit,volvo,and mack...with 3500 trucks it saved alot of pm service time and oil disposal costs

 

Oh I forgot the front cover and the oil lines to and from the turbo, but look everywhere and remember on weekends or whenever go around and check & tighten all your bolts. Good luck. 112 Racing your right, with 3500 trucks it saves you enough to pay for the occasional blown engine, but with only one truck I believe in regular sevicing and doing it yourself so as to get to know your truck. All useful info just pick the one that fits your needs and pocketbook.