99smokindodge

Hi I just have a few questions, first off im new here. And This is my first Dodge cummins, its a 1999 24 Valve with a 5spd. with 130000 miles What are some troubles I should look out for?

How often do you guys change your fuel filters?

What kind of oil do ya'll prefer?

Thanks!

Rauschbo

Welcome to DTR, you'll find this place to be a conucopia of info for you to better "manage" your new rig.

For the '99...lemme seee, this list is FAR from complete, but a reasonable start:
Get gauges on it, at LEAST a fuel pressure gauge - these trucks have lousy lift pumps which go bad ($120-160) and take out the Injection Pump ($1200-1700), a FP gauge might save the IP for you. It is HIGHLY recommended that you get a good IP on immediately, and the FP gauge with it - the most popular is the FASS or FASS II (the latter is pump only, the former has a filtration system), followed by the Walbro.

You will need to tab / block the KDP (Killer Dowel Pin), an indexing pin behind the timing gear cover which likes to back out and do SEVERAL thousands of $ worth of damage.

Look for the dreaded 53 Block, prone to cracking - however, if you're still good @ 130K, you're probably fine.

Keep an eye on your exhaust manifold, the OEM is prone to cracking, there are a few 3-piece aftermarket setups out there to address this.

Want better brakes? Put the GM 1-ton cylinders in the rear...

You'll probably want to start getting more power AND better mileage, something a chip or box would do for you.....there are MANY options, the Edge, Van Aaken, Quad - these are probably the most popular 3 (I gather from reading the posts)...you can step up a little, or step up a LOT.

Post pics of your rig, we all have some weird fascination for looking at such things

All of these issues are searchable, you'll find zillions of posts on each, let me - no, let US at DTR know how your rig is running, and don't be afraid to post questions, this community is QUITE supportive!

Again - welcome aboard!

ISBpower

i just got a 2001 with a 5 speed and i was wandering how high of a pressure gauge would i need for the fuel pressure i was lookin a getting an auto meter becaseu there supost to be really good and does any one know the easiest way to replace a cluch on this truck

Rauschbo

Autometer makes a fine gauge...we have several advertisers on this site that sell the gamut of gauges by various manufacturers, check out their websites and deals.

0-30 psi should do the trick for you.


Someone else will have to chime in about the clutch swap, and possible upgrades (assuming you WILL be bit by the Bombing bug....)