Newbie question on oil level during pre-trip inspection

Yes. You really shouldn't ever have to dump 2 gallons in

 

Don't check the oil right after shutting it off. It takes time in these big motors for all the oil to drain back down into the oil pan. So many times I've seen guys check it right after shutting it down, top it up then realize the next day it's over full. Over full blows seals, that's not good on the resume.

 

PLEASE check with the company shop about the PARTICULAR truck you are driving--while for the most part--you are getting good advice--but certain motors have certain idiocynracies--CAT's especially---Mine is full at the ADD mark--and more than a couple inches above--she will blow it out.....
So always double check with--whomever has been servicing truck you are going to be riding......

 

Make sure you are on level ground... pull it the dipstick out, wipe it off and then put it back in and then read what it has to say.

 

Make sure you are sitting on level ground and the truck is not slanted to one side or the other. If the oil level is at the add mark, you are 1 gallon below full and should add up to - but not more than - one gallon. If the oil level is anywhere above the add mark but not above the full mark, you really do not have to sweat it --- you are good.
.
.If it really bothers you that you are close to the add mark, you could add 2 quarts or 2 liters and be slightly above halfway between the add and full mark. An empty two quart soda bottle, two liter soda bottle or two quart sport drink bottle can be used for a fairly accurate measurement of how much to add. If the bottle has a wide mouth, you can cut off the top of a regular size soda bottle and use that as a funnel.