12V vs. 24V quality
 

Outside of the electronic components, is there a difference in the actualy contstruction quality of the 12V vs the 24V engines ?? I would like to keep my 12V for a long time however, I may eventually have to upgrade to a 24V. Do you guys know if there is a difference in the construction quality ??
Thanks,
Steve

the newer motors breathe better...it is said that 24 valves actually have a stronger block (someone may chime in on this)...but the big difference is the pumps...the 12 valve uses a very dependable, long lasting inline pump while the 24 valvers (pre common rail) use a finicky pump that needs to be babied

Upgrade I think you mean down grade.

I think so. There is no difference in the "construction quality" a few updates to the block, but the 12v is a better package, especially for durability IMHO

IMHO 12v > 24v simply becuase of the P7100 vs. the VP44.

Who needs 12 extra valves?

The 24V has a better bottom end, but the 12V pump is a lot to try and overcome to make the 24V a better engine.

I'd be pretty confident in saying that a 24V is a better TRUCK, though-- the Dodge parts improved a lot over the years.

I certianly agree that the 24v (especially 01.5+) is a better overall package. I do like th old A/C controls a LOT though...

i think all of you that say the 24 v are bettr than the 12v are all full of bunk.you just have to look at the big picture,the 12v are more easy to soup up once you understand them.once they put the 53blocks and electronic pumps and added more valves they wrecked them.thanks that is just the way i see it.i have owned a98.5 04.5 a 06 and now i own a 94 and i would not trade for any of them at any cost.the 94 kicks but.thanks

Leaving the engines out of the equation the 12 valves are better.
After the Ram became more popular DC began pinching pennies eliminating things that most people wouldn't notice like underhood insulation, interior grab handles, lighted key halo, tailgate protector... the list goes on and on.

Bill, I'm actually considering selling my 24V if I can find a clean 12V in good shape. I need something that's lower overall maintenance cost, and any mileage gain would be nice.

Finding a 2wd reg cab 12V has been incredibly difficult-- auto or stick.

I like the 12valver but some of them 24V sure run good IMO!
TO EACH IS OWN :cool:.
Brandon

I've had ZERO... that's nada... no problems with my 97 12v since I got it. BEST truck I've ever driven!

did kill the KDP and change out fluids, but that's maintenance...

--------
Steve:

I am going to have to agree with DTR Members "2500" and "dup98.5" on the Dodge Cummins 12 valve engines being superior to the 98.5-2002 Dodge Cummins 24 valve VP-44 engines. I have owned them both. I still have my 1996 Dodge CTD 12 valve and have SOLD my 2002 Dodge CTD 24 valve.
In 94,000 miles I put two (2) VP-44's on the 2002 and four lift pumps![verymad] That truck left me on the side of the road three times!

On the other hand, my 1996 Dodge 12 valve now has 266,000 miles on it and has NEVER failed me once! IMHO, the 12 valve Cummins engine with the P-7100 fuel pump is about as "bulletproof" an engine as you can get. That pump is HUGE and TOUGH and is cooled by oil AND fuel, NOT just #2 diesel fuel.

While I would agree with some of the members that the newer trucks are somewhat nicer interior wise etc.,.....there is no comparison to the durability and longevity of the engines as long as the VP-44 fuel pump is on the 24 valve.

--------
John_P

I have also owned both and must agree with the majority.
I cannot see ever owning anything but a 12v again, it gives me a warm fuzzy feeling knowing that my truck will get me there and back every time.
Even mildly bombed at the 550hp range it is one of the most reliable vehicles I ever owned.