i have a 98.5 and it has a 53 block and is using coolant. i can't see any leaks so i was thinking it may be the headgasket but im not sure. so i checked today and found that its a 53. the truck only has 130,000 and i was searching around and seen that cummins will work with you if your truck has less then 150. i just wanted to know if thats true and whats the best way of getting a hold of cummins.to anyone who can help me out.thanks

 

Ken Scobel used to be the go to guy, I don't know if he still is ??? Phone # 812-377-7365 Thanks Steve B.

 

thanks for the help. also should i take the mods off my truck or is it ok to leave them on? just would like to know before i call them. is there anything else i should do or know before i call them.thanks

 

I have a 98.5 RAM, how do I know if I have a block 53? And what what's the issue with those block?

 

53 Block FAQ

 

Just cause you gat a 53 blok don't mean it crack frum ur description.

 

yea i know it may not be but i don't want to take a chance on it. i just want to see if i can get it replaced or something before it does crack if its not already.

 

Hello, I just bought a 2001 I looked at the left front corner of the block and see no 53 like the pictures show, actually there is no # at all am I good.

 

I don't think there'd be any point in contacting Cummins unless you are suffering from an actual crack. It's actually a very small percentage of 53 blocks that ever actually cause a problem, so I don't think they're likely to be handing out free engines for no reason. Take the steps to find out where your coolant is actually going, then go from there.

 

im not lookin for a free engine i just wanted to know what would be the best thing to do if my block is cracked. i plan on checkin the truck over this weekend more to see if i can fine the problem.

 

Have you seen pictures of where the crack normally occurs? Have a look on the passenger side, behind the turbo, right below the two rearmost frost plugs.

It's also common for the head gasket to leak at the right front corner, kinda below the thermostat, in front of the exhaust manifold.

 

The crack can eventually go clear to the front - mine was 17 inches long and using 30 gallons per day water when I changed it. I took the $1000 from Cummins and did my own. Other option was they give an new block rings bearings - you pay misc and labor. Labor was quoted to me at about 40 to 50 hours if I recall correctly. Their shop here was $109 per hour.

They will keep their word though. I called 1 800 diesels I think. if you do your own you have to provide copies of reciepts for parts - block etc.