I'm looking at a 1998 2500 this afternoon. How can I tell if it's the 12v or 24v cummins? Thanks.

 

if it's a 2500 it's most likley a 12valve.

 

.......interesting.


12 valve will have a tin cover over the separate 6 valve covers. The 24 will have a gray/tan cast one piece valve cover with the Dodge logo cast into it. That's the obvious way to tell.

 

1998 had both 12 and 24 valve diesels available.
Quickest way is to check the door badging. One will say 24vavle Cummins Turbo Diesel.
If the badges are missing, pop the hood, the top of the valve cover will say 24vavle Cummins Turbo Diesel. If not, chances are, its a 12 valve.

Rich

 

Looks like J-Body beat me to it.

Rich

 

... and wecome to DTR. Glad you found us.

Rich.

 

You can also tell by looking at the injector lines coming off of hte injector pump. The 12 valve had a P7100 mechanical injection pump that is easily identified by the six lines in a straight row on top of the pump.

The 24V which has a VP44 electronic timed rotary style pump, with its injector lines aranged in a circular pattern in the back of the pump.

 

Thanks for the speedy responses.

 

Does the 24v have advantages over the 12v that would suggest I should look for a 24v? This truck will be used as a 2nd vehicle and to tow my boat that is about 6500 lbs. I would also like to upgrade with some aftermarket add ons to improve performance. Thanks.

Chuck

 

The 12 valve is cheaper to modify, more reliable and tend to get better fuel economy.

 

I have to agree with Bill
In the Diesel game ~ Less = More

 

And watch out for the 53 block, no matter which one it is.
http://www.Stamey.Info/Truck/Cummins53BlockFAQ.htm

Chris

 

Stamey, a little off topic but "Are You A Diesel Head", that is fantastic!!!!!!

 

im a fan of the 12 valave simply because they r easier to modify and the biggest selling point is that they r cheaper to do so too.

 

IMO when going used the 12 valve is the ONLY way to go. The eary 24's had some "issues", though not with their longevity, just their DEPENDABILITY. Fuel pump is one I know of.


Besides, the later 12's were quieter than the early 24's.

As an added bonus they are not making anymore 12's, at least off the floor. So get yourself a bonafide sought after motor.


Big Jimmy