guys i should have researched it, i didnt think that the 12 valves received 53 blocks as well. Has anybody ever had a prob with the 12 valve and these blocks. I hope not but im sure ill be disapointed.

 

has #s 04j7 above it if that means anything to you

 

Yes, there were a few 53 block 12 valves (only in 98). I work on lots of these trucks and have never seen one crack. Only seen one cracked 24 valve though. There have been some discussions here and I don't believe anyone's seen a 12 valve crack. Can anyone correct me on this?

 

Why is this in "Emergency! Help!" ?

Merrick

 

well when i wrote the post i was looking for an immediate answer cause im a little impatient, it was kinda driving me crazy having all these plans for my truck then i find out i have a 53, almost a deal kill but hopefully not, sorry if i offended anyone

 

I have seen several cracked 12 valve 53's. One was in a motorhome, and a few in 98 Dodges. All were worked beyond their OEM power levels or had bad cooling system maintenance. I have never seen a 53 in a 12 valve crack, if it had good cooling system maintenance and did not have the power boosted. I have also seen no cracked 53's in the 24 valve Dodge if the owner kept the cooling system neutralized and avoided power kits.

 

The 24v's with 53's are much more prone to crack than the 12v's. They are both totally different in terms of vibrations and whtnot due to more valves, which is what I remember some one explaining as the reason I have a 53 24v and im still gonna let the bombs fall as the wallet will allow. Even so, the 53 block problem is way overplayed.... some small percentage (maybe 1% ????) have cracked out of the total # of 53's. If it does, find a used small block with low miles and swap uhm out....some truck-bonding time
TNutcher