ripper6

Folks: My uncle left me his 2wd drive Dodge 2500 that has been sitting for almost 13 years in his barn, without starting. I have been wrenching on gas trucks for years and have built many C-10 Chevys and I am fairly comfortable on diesels. Any input or sound advice on some general steps to do prior to see if I can get this truck fired up would be appreciated. I have been searching the forums too for anyone else who has run into the same situation with firing up a diesel that has sat for years. Thanks for any input.

AlpineRAM

I'd turn the engine over in the correct direction with the engine barring tool that you can get at Cummins, if nothing strange is happening check all fluids and start the engine.
You will have to check for leaks, but I would just have it run and check every few minutes.

If it works OK I'd do a coolant change, oil change with filter, run the tank down until almost empty, change fuel filter, and air filter. Check all the rubber parts for rodent damage.
Most important to me would be new brake lines and hoses before even considering getting it on the road.