Hey all I'm new to the diesel world but have recently been interested in purchasing one. Love the 1st generation cummins and I've found one in my area that's a possibility. Miles are higher on it than I would like but I'm going to go look at it and see what the body is like. I'd like to hear your opinions on if this is a wise investment. He's asking $5,500, I'm going to offer him lower than that. What do you guys say? What kind of issues should I prepare for? I included the link from Craigslist...

Craigslist ads not allowed on DTR

 

Hmm.. wonder why the temp gauge is on high.

 

Didn't even realize that! Thanks.

 

The CTD will run a million miles with good maintenance, and like anything mechanical will suffer from poor maintenance.

That said, a first gen Dodge CTD in good condition is worth a lot of money.

 

I think it would be a good investment if the frame is in great shape. The 6bt's rebuild very easy even if it did run hot. If the engine was a total failure and you didn't want to rebuild the motor, I'm sure you could find a 6bt to replace it.

Keep in mind with the age you will have some maintenance to do as j_martin said. Not just mechanical but regular greasing and that good stuff.

 

The problem with 1st gens nowdays is a bunch of hot rod, go fast kids know about them. Don't forget, these trucks became legendary because they were built for work, and did a very good job at it. I would try to get to know the owner before I buy one. Unmolested by an idiot is worth a lot of money to me. Good luck man.

 

the REAL problem with a 1st gen is that it's a million mile motor in a 100,000 mile box. i'm not worried about the kid thats constantly working on and "hot rodding" his truck. those are the guys that live in the shop with there truck and work on it day and night so they can hot rod it.

btw, pretty ironic that this is in your signature line after your "unmolested" "hot rod" post

 

The tamper proof cap on a pump when purchased is better to me then one thats gone. 2 of mine were bone stock at purchase and my 89 was mild tune from the original owner which I knew well. I would not pay much for a tweaked out truck. Its getting hard to find a low mile truck now as these piles are getting pretty old. Pretty much all thats left is a milk crate for a seat and an engine that runs.

 

Check around the roof above the windshield area for rust, check the cab mounts for rust.