1959MackB61 Posted March 17, 2019 Share Posted March 17, 2019 (edited) Hi all, I am looking to change the engine oil in my 1959 Mack B61 with a 711 thermodyne in it. I am not a mechanic by trade and cannot afford to take it to a shop (I bought it so I could learn by doing anyhow). I have done plenty of oil changes on my day to day vehicles but realize this is a different machine. I haven’t located any service books for my model (at least none that I could afford) so my hope is that someone here would be willing to let me know: what viscosity I need, gallon quantity, and suggested brand of oil. I also need to know what oil filter I would need. My father is a heavy machine mechanic so do not worry about me destroying anything or hurting myself. He is willing to help me if I ask. Unfortunately we are both stumped on these details at the moment. Thank you for reading. Edited March 17, 2019 by 1959MackB61 Quote Link to comment https://www.bigmacktrucks.com/topic/56199-oil-change-requirements-1959-b61-w711/ Share on other sites More sharing options...
j hancock Posted March 18, 2019 Share Posted March 18, 2019 I would use 15W40 oil designed for diesel engines such as Rotella T. Depending on what you have, capacity is between 4 and 5 gals. What filter housing do you have? There is a Luberfiner type or the clarifier which is a very large canister with three lines. Two of the lines will be very large at 1" plus in size. The clarifier filter is old Mack 236GB311A which crosses to Wix 51233 with Wix 15114 gasket. I think the Luberfiner is 3090 (?). Depending on what you have, there is a screen in the oil pan that should be looked at. 1 1 Quote JimIt doesn't cost anything to pay attention. Link to comment https://www.bigmacktrucks.com/topic/56199-oil-change-requirements-1959-b61-w711/#findComment-418473 Share on other sites More sharing options...
Freightrain Posted March 20, 2019 Share Posted March 20, 2019 Get us a picture of the drivers side of the engine and we'll help with what filter you have. 1 Quote Larry 1959 B61 Liv'n Large...................... Charter member of the "MACK PACK" Link to comment https://www.bigmacktrucks.com/topic/56199-oil-change-requirements-1959-b61-w711/#findComment-418650 Share on other sites More sharing options...
1959MackB61 Posted March 26, 2019 Author Share Posted March 26, 2019 Thank you for the replies. My father and I checked and we agree that I have the clarifier filter. I have ordered the Wix Filter and Gasket and will add a photo of the engine when I can. The truck lives at my parents house since I do not have a large enough garage to fit it in. Again, thank you all for the guidance. I appreciate it. Quote Link to comment https://www.bigmacktrucks.com/topic/56199-oil-change-requirements-1959-b61-w711/#findComment-419094 Share on other sites More sharing options...
j hancock Posted March 27, 2019 Share Posted March 27, 2019 With the clarifier type, fill the canister with motor oil before you start the truck. 1 Quote JimIt doesn't cost anything to pay attention. Link to comment https://www.bigmacktrucks.com/topic/56199-oil-change-requirements-1959-b61-w711/#findComment-419102 Share on other sites More sharing options...
Brian D Posted October 14, 2021 Share Posted October 14, 2021 One book shows the oil capacity at 12 qts, and then goes on to say 30 qts with new filters. Mine has been converted to spin on filters. Any wisdom on dos and don'ts to share? This is my first attempt at this, but my oil is super black and thin so it is pretty past due. Many Thanks, Quote Link to comment https://www.bigmacktrucks.com/topic/56199-oil-change-requirements-1959-b61-w711/#findComment-481328 Share on other sites More sharing options...
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