Question about 24 valve IP. I am looking into buying a 99 dodge 3500 and it has the 24 valve motor in it, but I have heard stories about the IP freaking out. But I was also heard that if you catch the lift pump before it looses too much pressure that you can save the IP. Is that true? Because I like the 24 valve power better so I dont know. please post back if you have any info. thanks

 

- there are literally THOUSANDS of posts about the VP44 failure on this site....

It seems that if you install a good FP gauge and keep an eye on it, you can head off any destructive issues brought upon by a failing LP - or install a Walbro of FASS / FASS II (you still need the gauge, though!)...

If you're buying a used truck with no knowledge of its history - the VP may have already been fatally wounded, and could die quickly or last several years.

 

First thing to do is get guages. Monitoring fuel pressure is a must. Failing lift pumps along with rusted and leaking supply lines can harm the IP's. The sad thing is that the IP's can just plain fail on their own. The newer IP's do have upgraded parts mechanicaly and electronicly. Over all they are a good motor just have some un-controlable quirks.

 

With the earlier ones (as I read it) they are luck of the draw. Some members here have gone 200K+, others less than 50. It is true that lack of fuel will eventually kill the IP, but electronic failure has been known to happen with a LP showing nice, steady pressure.
Have it checked for codes. Run the VIN and see what the warranty work history is, there is a good likelyhood it's not even the factory pump by now.

 

the truck has 132,000 miles on it and has the orignal LP and IP and is showing good fuel pressure. I went and had it checked out by a local diesel mech. and he said it check out, but he said I should put boost, FP, and pryo gauges on it and that they make a light that hookes up to the LP and when it gets down to a set pressure the light turns on and means that you need to hurry and have it checked out so you can save the IP. does this sound accurate??

 

Take a pass on the Idiot Light and get a real FP gauge!