Hey guys, I've owned my 12 valve for a number of years now and looking to buy a newer 24 valve ( 98.5 - 2002 ). I think I'm pretty much only interested in the 5 or 6-speed. Is there any common engine problems I should look out for when shopping around and test driving? Transmission issues? It's mainly going to be a work/tow rig with hopefully some decent fuel mileage. Looking to spend around 15,000 for a nice stock one so I know it will not be a perfect truck, but it would be nice if it was at least reliable Anything to look out for would be greatly appreciated as I haven't had much time looking at or driving non-mechanized cummins engines.

 

Just VP44/dead pedal.

For 15K you should be almost getting into 3rd gen territory.

Whoops, on edit, watch out for a 53 block, especially spending mucho bucks for a truck.

Also KDP still strikes 24V.

 

I realize the VP44 is dependent on fuel to remain functional. I don't plan on buying anything that has already been chipped if they haven't correctly upgraded the fuel supply first. But how would I check the Injection pump without tearing it apart? I doubt many dealerships would let me stick a fuel pressure gauge in there I can't find a decent 3rd gen 4x4 for under 18k, the ones that I've seen already have upwards of 250k miles.

 

Checking the VP44 - not much you can do. I have two 2nd gen 24valve trucks. I'd love to have a P-Pumped 12v instead of one of them.
Upgrading the lift pump doesn't insure the VP-44 will live forever, but it will likely extend the life.
As another guy noted, beware of the '53' engine block. Many never have a problem, but I've never heard of ANY non '53' blocks having a problem.

 

I ran a 2000 3500 for 9 years with a 6sp. Great combination for towing even at 235hp. I was one of the lucky one that never had a problem with the
VP44. It had 203,000 miles on it when I sold it. I replaced 3 LP's. Ran power service and then switched over to 2 stroke oil @1/2oz per gallon.

That was one good running truck. As metioned above, you might be able to slide into a 03 common rail which is the best one for fuel mileage. Two injection events per cycle instead of 3 with the 04.5 and later.

The Lift pump, LP, on the second generations and early 3rds is the pain in the butt. You never know when it will fail. If you can get over it somehow, the 2002 would be a good choice in the HO format.

Dave

 

Yeah, unless you really want a 24v, I'd look into a 3rd gen. I was lookin at a few 03-05's for just a shade above that price range, and that was almost a year ago.

 

I'm probably going to wait about a year then I'll be in the same boat as Stihl. Really like my 12valve but would like to go with 4x4 and manual trans. I personally don't care for the looks of the 3rd gen Rams. Any of the nice 2nd gen Rams with the options I want are 24 valve.