I am looking at a 98 12 valve and I am not very versed with the quirks on these. The truck is 4x4 5 speed quad cab with 165,000 on it. Is there any thing that I shold look at in piticular or be concerned about? This is going to be my personal companies tool truck/ truck to do jobs with in places I don't want to take the 03.
I have heard some people talk about the 53 block is this something I need to worry about in a 12v? I have also read a little about valve adjsutment what is involved in this and how often? Any other info would be great.

What is the truck really worth the guy is asking 13,250? I am sure I can get it down from that. I know a lot of assumptions will take place in this question just assume it is in good shape few dings on body power windows and cruise interior is in good shape for the year.

 

The single most important thing with a used Cummins engine is to be sure someone did not use automotive oil filters. If the truck has a filter that is not on Cummins' approved list of filters, pass right on by because chances are that the piston cooler oil jets are plugged and it will soon lose a cylinder to piston overheating.

The 53 block is primarily a problem with the 98.5-2002 24 valves. However, there are some 53's out there in the 12 valve configuration. I would not knowingly purchase a 53.

Valve adjustment should be done about once a year, and is very easy.

Fuel injection pump timing is an issue with all 12 valve engines. The factory installed the injection pump nut without enough torque, and the timing slides down so that power and fuel economy suffer. If you get the truck, have the timing checked.

As with any Dodge with 4 wheel drive, there are front axle issues to consider. Be sure the link bar is in good shape and the upper end is not worn out, and also check the upper spring seats to be sure they are not cracked or breaking away from the frame.

 

The 53 block is primarily a problem with the 98.5-2002 24 valves. However, there are some 53's out there in the 12 valve configuration. I would not knowingly purchase a 53.

Mine is a 53 block, no issues in 130K even at my power level.

Jim

 

I whole heartedly disagree with the oil filter recommendation. 95% of the people in the US have their oil changes done at a quick lube type place where they don't use "approved" filters. Filter failures even with the cheapest brands are rare. You are essentially taking 95% of the perfectly fine trucks out of the competition following that advice. You could be looking forever...

If you find one with "approved" filters all the better, but don't use it as a criteria for saying no. If buying from a dealer they may have put an "approved" filter for the first time in the trucks life, you really don't know. Over 400k combined miles on my two rigs with non-approved filters.

53 blocks were only used on the '98 12 valves and 24 valves, avoid.
Be aware of the KDP problem, sometimes the damage has been repaired with a band-aid epoxy fix that won't last, you could have a big repair bill right off the bat.

 

O.k. Thanks guys I will take a closer look at the block. As far as the timing goes this does not sound like a huge deal "easy fix" . What about price is it in the ball park.

 

There's one here for $12,000
https://www.dieseltruckresource.com/...threadid=43718

 

I paid 12k for mine 97 CTD extended cab last year with 175k on it.
Matador

 

i HAVE A 1998 qAUD CAB 3500 12 VALVE WITH A "53" BLOCK.....
111,000 MILES AND NO PROBS WITH BLOCK OTHER THAN OIL LEAKS....i DID LOSE 5TH GEAR AT 77,OO MILES BUT I AM 2 WHEEL DR.

 

VPI
Price is in the ball park. I just bought a 98 Quad,4X4 with 179K for $10900.
I had to settle for an automatic.
Offer them 12500 and enjoy

Bug

 

Sounds about right to me. I sold a 97 auto, ext. cab, 4x4 with 143000 for 13,000 a couple of months ago. If every thing looks good I would get it.
dave

 

Thanks for the replies guys. I have decided to wait a bit before I get something. I was really trying to put the cart before the horse. Hopefully something else will come along when it is time.