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Hey Yall. Potentially buying my first cummins here. 97 12v single cab w/275k & 5 speed. Would really like some advice from folks as it pertains to what type of projects are worth taking on or not. Truck has been run without fuel plate (not sure for how long, as the truck is not the persons daily driver and I believe he got it in a work trade) Tons of white smoke until its up to temp, he said he tested the compression and all cylinders were good. I'm hoping its injectors or retarded timing. Has some blowby, not full on tea kettle, but certainly noticeable. Other things cracked dash, dents, front end is sloppy, small radiator leak, KDP hasn't been done, needs new vacuum hose, will def need a new clutch soon along with 5th gear nut fix (but holds 5th well now). I'm excited about a project, but my biggest concern is if the smoke is due to poor compression. Asking price is 5k. Thanks in advance for opinions/advice. Cheers!
If all compression checks out good, then I wouldn't have an issue with it.
White smoke can be from anything from an air leak to combustion of antifreeze.......
You will spend far more than you think though, sloppy Dodge front ends don't fix themselves cheaply and Clutches are dough unless you do a no name and then why not just throw a stocker in.........
I would budget another 5K for the parts........... Then if you think teh truck is still worth it, I say go for it.
To me, the 97's are the best year ever made.........
Thanks a bunch guys. I think I'm going to look for a project that's a little more worth the time and energy. Or just wait for a unicorn truck that's reasonably priced. This project would probably be like eating rice with stilts...I'm just to excited to get into a 12v!! Thanks for the guidance! Z
Found one! Just got lucky I spose, prettymuch a stones throw away from the project truck I was looking at...I've also been looking for a long time patdaly, lighting struck and I found this gem. 275k which is okay with me, 5 speed, in overall great shape, might be a little more truck than I need..but I'll put her to good use. Check engine light came on during my drive home, kind of guessing its the alt as my dash gauge reads around 11-12..? Has an oil leak somewhere on the front of the engine, hopefully I'll seal that up when I do the KDP...anyone have any good suggestions on a KDP kit that includes front main seal, timing gasket, etc? Or is it better to buy them all separately? Thanks again for everyones advice!
02-18-2017, 02:58 PM
