Soon2be

Hey all,
I am new here and have been lurking to gain info. On Monday I am going to look at a 99 2500 quad cab, AT with 167,xxx miles. The guy said the exhaust manifold has a small crack in it, not all the way thru but a crack. Is there something else I need to be looking at in addition to this crack. I know these motors move alot and this can be the reason for the crack, just want to reassure myself.
Otherwise it sounds like a good enough rig for the price (9500), transmission was just service 2000 miles ago, new tires at the same time.
I plan on looking at the turbo extra close for sloppiness. Is there anything else I should be looking at very close. I am going to take it to the local diesel shop and have them give it a going over so that will help.
Thanks for all your replies.
Hopeful in Montana

Strong05

Check for the dreaded 53 block and crack. Check to make sure the front end is in good shape (the ball joints). I'm sure if you do search you can find plenty of other things to look at...

Soon2be

Yeah, I am well aware of the 53 block. Like I said I'm gonna look first. I was just wondering if the cracked exhaust might be from something bigger I need to look at. Of all the posts I have read I don't remember anything about a major problem with exhause manifold.
Thanks and i'm gonna keep reading

Copenhagenjunkie

I would have a gauge to check lift pump pressure. Manifold crack is normal not related to 53 block which I really wouldn't worry about. If Injector pump is still OEM I would ask for 1k less to replace it.

dkenny

you might have been thinking this already..hook a scanner up and check for codes..
x2 on the fuel pressure..its a must
a new manifold might 500-600..so not too much..
does the AC work? do you need it to work?
heater core? if you need to replace heater core or evaporator plan on spending a day to replace them or pay someone else too..

-dkenny

Soon2be

Very good point on the codes, does the key trick work for the codes on a 99? I have a list of the most common codes downloaded from this site. If I like what I see i'm gonna take it to local diesel shop. I'm sure they will run for codes. My biggest fear is the 53 block. Keep your fingers crossed for me.

Stamey

No key trick for codes on the 99. They didn't start that until 2000 or 2001. The manifold crack is pretty typical, because of the long casting for the 6 cylinder. Most all 6 cylinders do it. You'd get and 3-piece replacement so you won't have to worry about it.
If you are worried about good brakes, get a 2000 or later. Much better front brakes.

Chris

Soon2be

Well I looked at the truck today. Good news and bad news. Bad news is it's the 53 block?$%*! I took it to the diesel shop and found out a few things. The lift pump is going out, fuel pressure at WOT is 0 and 15 at idle. I can get a FASS installed for 842.00. Is that good? There was a Carter pump on there now. The oil pressure sending unit is bad. Injectors and IP is good. Track bar is shot. Front brakes are bad and radiator is good but full of junk. Transmission has just been serviced and adjusted.
Now, I can get the owner down to 8500.00 and a new long block was quoted at 6800 and installed for a total of 8000-10000. I like the truck but I'm gonna bow out. Anybody want to comment? Anybody think I should get it? All comments are appreciated at this time.

Stamey

You can likely find another complete engine for less than that long block, but then the installation will cost you (I don't know if that number included installation).
Is the rest of the truck so wonderful that you don't want to look any more?

Chris

Soon2be

No the rest of the truck is not that great. I'm passing on this one. Thanks for all the info.

daddy mopar

Also look at gear ratios when looking at these trucks. Many people do not realize they are buying 3.55 gears. Depending on what your purpose is, find out what is best for your application, 3.55, 3.73, or 4.10. Tranny, fuel system, and brakes can be big common issues depending on the year of the truck.