i'm new to CDTs and i was just wondering if any of you could help me out by listing things that i should look out for in the 1st gen CDTs.
i've heard that the Getrag transmissions are crap and i should spend the extra time and money and effort to get a 5 speed.
any thing else that i should look out for and maybe some warning signs that a regular gasser guy wouldn't know to look for?
thanks

-Bryan

 

The Getrag is the 5 speed. I wouldn't say they are crap, but they don't tolerate abuse and neglect well. Gear noise at low RPM is normal, but if it's noisy all the time and/or jumps out of gear it's toast.

https://www.dieseltruckresource.com/...threadid=60608 Covers differences between gas and diesel.

Watch for rust, some is easily repaired (floors, rocker panels), some isn't. If you see any rust above the windshield, even bubbles, run away! They rust from the inside out up there and it's much worse than it appears.

 

Dave correct me if I'm wrong but I think in late 91 they went to the nv4500 which is supposed to be stronger. I'm just goin on what I've been told.

 

did they ever put in NV5600s in the 3/4 or 1 ton 1st gen trucks?
i'll be sure an look out for rust!!! thanks for the info!
any common diesel engine problems or are they pretty solid?

 

nv 4500 started in 94

 

What he said. '89-'93 have the Getrag G360.

 

Frame cracks at the steering box right on top where the small notch is behind the radiator support, not a huge deal, but it'll need welded. I've noticed it alot on these trucks and heard other's stories on here as well about it.

 

KDP Its a dowel pin that has a nasty habit of dropping at the worst time . tab it or set screw it!

Good luck and if you keep up on pm you wont get stuck.

Oh and dont run out of fuel it is a PITA

 

SmokinFive9 4x4
thanks for the tip! i really like your truck!!! that thing is sick! what happened to the piston? looks like a melt down... i know old chevys used to have a similar problem.
92DIESEL
hmm... what's a KDP? sounds like an easy fix.

this is just what kind of stuff i was looking for. it's nice to come to a forum that knows how to answer questions and doesn't get all ****** off when you ask a question. that's what forums are for right? i'll quit my rant now

 

https://www.dieseltruckresource.com/...threadid=36809

The best KDP thread on this board. Read it and the ones it links you to. KDP damage is not as common on 1st gen trucks as on 2nd gen trucks, but it still happens.

 

What he said ^