My father has an 02 3500 CTD with 75K on it. Is it time to adjust the valve train yet?? The Cummins site said to adjust @ 150K but did not specify what motor. Any responses would be greatly appreciated

 

The owners manual on my 2000 states 150,000 miles before running the overhead. It also says 135,000 miles for severe service. You might find this useful. Click here

 

Thanks Fschiola thats a handy little page there.

 

Here's one for your '91

http://dodgeram.org/tech/dsl/maint/1st_Gen-12v.htm

 

I checked mine at about 100,000kms(24v), and just about all were out on the upper end of specs. I set them all to the tight side of specs, and it quieted it down a lot. Cummins allows for a wide gap for both intake and exhaust and as long as it falls within that range they say it's fine, unlike older 12v's. Unless it is clacky you could leave them until about 160,000kms as specified in manual. Setting them to the tight side will increase power, lessen smoke, quiet down engine and give slightly better mileage. Be cautious if you set them yourself be precise, or you'll bend pushrods or valves if set too tight. That's the time to slam in bigger injectors without him knowing, and seeing his face when he takes it out for a twist.

 

HA HA wouldnt that be a barrel of laughs. Hes lookin to do some mods for a little bit more power when towing.

 

So I guess we will hold off on the adjustments for a bit.

Thanks to all .. Much appreciated

 

Torque, did you have to replace the gasket?

 

The valve cover gasket is reusable. I've had mine off a dozen times and it still seals great.

 

Well, this sounds like what I need to do! I am getting pretty good smoke during acceleration. How hard is it to adjust the valves? Can it be easily done in a weekend? My truck has 185,000 miles on it.

 

Go to the top of this page and click on "tech facts". Then "24 valve ISP 2nd gen". Then"valve lash setting procedure". Should be what you're looking for.

 

I can't find the "valve lash setting procedure" in the "24 valve ISP 2nd gen" area. I'm hoping it is a simple procedure. I have too many hobbies .