So I just picked up a 2003 Durango SLT Plus with 5.9L and AWD/4x4 with 77k miles. So I want to do a basic tune up, and I want to make sure that I use the proper plugs, wires, etc.

Now from what I've seen on here so far it looks like you recommend Champion Truck plugs gapped to .040 with OEM wires.

Also, I've always used Mobil 1 in my Mustang and it's ran great from 25k to the current 223k miles, so I figure I'll stick with it. I live in southern Illinois, where the temp varies from 0 to 100. I've been running 0w30(improved gas mileage blend) in my Mustang lately, and it's been fine, but before that I was using 5w30. What weight do you guys suggest? Also, is fram oil filter ok?

Guess it probably wouldn't hurt to throw a new fuel filter, yay or nay?

I looked at the cai threads and am definitely interested in doing one, but I would like to get some added opinions about which option would be best.

Thanks in advance for all of your help!!!

 

Yes you are correct on the Champion spark plugs. We recommend the Champion Copper truck plugs gapped to .040. OE plug wires are also recommended.

I use Mobil 1 in my rig with the 5.9 and I normally keep 10w-30 as that's what the manual calls for. I'm sure it would be fine to put some 5w-30 but wouldn't recommend anything else. And I have the Fram Tough Guard filters in mine because I don't trust anything else Fram makes from what I've read. I also tend to screw a Mobil 1 filter in it if I'm feeling generous to my rig.

Also, if I am correct I believe the fuel filter is built in the tank system and not just a plug n play replace as you wish filter.

Lastly, I would recommend replacing transmission fluid and both differential fluids. Just to be sure you have nice fresh fluids.

 

Also, forgot to give my .02 on CAI. First, I'm guessing you're referring to cold air intake and the difference is amazing if installed correctly. I have the K&N cold air kit I installed and I immediately noticed a more responsive throttle and a lot more giddy up. Also, after about 1 or 2 fillups I noticed a 3-5 mpg increase which on our rigs is huge seeing as our gas mileage on the 5.9 is quite rough.

I am not sure anything about any other brands making a cold air intake but I know from first hand experience that the K&N makes a great product. My cold air kit only cost about $240 also so not that bad IMO...

 

Look in here: https://dodgeforum.com/forum/1st-gen...wers-faqs.html

 

definitely champion plugs, as said above gapped as said w/ new OE wires and a new cap and rotor with brass contacts, the CAI is probably better to build your own as outlined in the FAQ thread, i would stick with the oil weight in the manual (10w30 iirc)and i personally dont like fram filters, but do as you please (we use stp/powerflow filters on all of our trucks) and we use dino oil (again just our choice since we do run 4 cars and put close to 20k on each of em a year so that would get expensive fast w/ synthetic). forget about the fuel filter, it is integrated into the pump and you need to drop the tank to change it, its a lifetime unit so dont worry about it unless it starts acting up. and white widow, i fine 3-5mpg gain from a CAI VERY HARD to believe, i would very much like to see records to back up that kind of a claim (maybe 4-5 tanks before and at least the same after) and i would also change the front and rear differential fluids and the transmission fluid (unless you have records to prove it has been done recently)

 

Shrp, I was tired and when I wrote that sounded out of context. What I meant was once I did the full tune up and fluid changes I gained 3-5 mpg. Most of the plugs were fouled and a couple wires were frayed. It was a rough beast when I got it.

 

ahhhh ok, that is possible, lack of maintenance does horrible things to an engine

 

Especially when you go to take off the valve covers and theres a pudding like substance where the oil should be

 

yea that is a very good indicator of NO maintenance having been done at ANY point in time since that truck was bought

 

since ive had my 03 4.7 SLT + ive done:

-valve body in trans
-PCM
-charcoal canister
-rear brakes
-4 tires
-trans flush
-rear diff fluid
-front diff fluid
-transfer case fluid
-battery
-throttle position sensor

Bought it in 08 with 21K miles, has 49,xxx since then, soooo much $$$ in matinence, it still needs a coolant flush, plugs, throttle body cleaning.....

But it runs great though, very solid, except for a little idle stumble...