so finally can afford a cummins haha. im looking at 96-2002 basically. I want a long box an manuel. I will be towing some. which is good for better fuel mileage an power?. guys say the 12v I have some mechanic skill. like doing plugs and small stuff, nothing like timing or anything like that. have an average set of tools.. So just trying to decide what would be a better truck for me. live in upstate ny so weather is cold most the time, I figured I say that just incase one is in cold then other. I wait to hear from everybody and there thoughts.

 

Welcome to the forum ...
Do some research on this site and other Dodge/Cummins sites. Search '53 Block' ....
If you have your heart set on a 2nd Gen, then try to get the newest model ....
It seems that the 5-6 speed trucks aren't as popular or available ... I have two 5 speeds, and like them. Are you looking for a 4x4 ?
Good luck in your search ....

 

You have quite a range there.

96 would be the last year of vacuum brakes, not a wonderful thing IMHO, but you can convert to hydraboost if the price is right, 97 is in my opinion, the pick of the litter as far as 12 valves go, first year of hydraboost brakes, almost the end of the 12 valve, last year of the old style interior.

98 starts out OK, though new interior and with the half year introduction of the 24V makes for some undocumented wiring changes so I have been told ( by member Infidel here, sharp dude ).

There is nothing intrinsically wrong with the introduction of the 24 valve, other than some issues with the aforementioned 53 block, and the general complexity of electronic injection. Starting in 2001.5 rear disc brakes and the 6 speed is introduced ( though you will find some special order 2000 ups with the 6 speed ).

From my perspective, I like the simplicity of the 12 valve, basically baling wire and duct tape will usually get you home, but you don't get the option of flipping a switch to make big power........ I think if I ever do move on, it will be straight to 2003 up common rails.

Good luck, these things are getting bloody expensive ( 12valve 5 speeds ).

 

yea definitely need 4x4. basically live on a mountain with the snow. acutally drove a 2000 today with 24 beside the steering play truck seemed to be pretty powerful. but then again first time driving one.

 

If your going to get a second gen- get the newest you can find.
I had a 1999 and there was a lot not to like about it-hub/brake configuration was poor and was improved after 2001 and up and like said rear disk brakes came in around 2000-2001. The vp44 gets a bad rep, but is easy to remove and replace- aux filtering of fuel will prolong vp44 life. Second Gens are getting harder to find in good condition and I feel are going to hold value really well in future. Watch for rust unless you are buying from west coast and shipping to your area. Door bottoms and rockers and cab corners and wheel arches are problem areas, and replacement doors are impossible to find-especially for quad cabs.
I would seriously consider buying from west or southwest and shipping- the rust issues we have up here in the northeast is costly and impossible to stop- good luck

 

I might be in the minority opinion on the thread here but I disagree a bit with the "newest one you can find/afford" opinion. A few thoughts to add.

Overall it's going to matter most on the individual examples you find as there will be considerable variance in upkeep and condition that will effect the lifespan and future repairs far more than any other factor.

Personally I flat out won't own a VP44 truck as it (to me) defeats the purpose of the Cummins dependable bulletproof engine concept. I don't want to have to baby, keep an eye on, or replace an injection pump early.

I'd go 94-98.5 twelve valve, or look to a 2003-2007.5 common rail. Then look to an '89-'93 12 valve. Just seems like despite the "bad rap" of the VP44, it's pretty much universally deemed the worst injection pump you could have in a Cummins.

Apologies to the '99-'02 owners I've probably offended by posting that.

 

Is the VP44 getting a bad reputation because of the 'lift pump' failures?
Lift pump fails, injector pump runs for awhile un-lubricated ... hence failure.
A good quality lift pump with fuel pressure gauge helps this situation ....

 

Helps but doesn't alleviate.

I have a buddy who has run his 02 out of fuel several times, then found out his LP had died because he couldn't get it to re-prime. The last time I did it, I had to start it on WD40 even after the low pressure side was primed, pump is still original. I have seen another, LP died and shortly thereafter, IP went.

I think it is just too much of a wing and a prayer thing, and now even the rebuilds might have several times through, I don't see it getting any better.

I guess you could always convert it to a VE......

 

finally found something I like..
-Al stock........... for now