I'm looking hard at a 98 24v 5 speed quad cab dually SLT with 85,000 miles. I drove the truck today and it ran flawlessly. (much more power than the 99 PSD I also test drove)

I noticed the ABS light and BRAKE lights were on while I was driving. A friend who used to work at a Dodge dealer told me it's a common problem and involves corrosion on a connector. Is he correct?

What else do I need to take into consideration on this truck? Check for excessive blowby? Leaks?

I had heard of problems with lift pump failure, causing failure of the IP. Any obvious signs other than putting a gauge on it? I plan on adding a full set of gauges, (including a fuel pressure gauge) and a Edge Comp box as soon as I get the truck to my shop.

Any help appreciated!

If all goes well and I don't change my mind, I'll probably have it in possesion by Wednesday.

Thanks.

Conn

 

Does the speedo still work?

 

yeah.

 

Could be an ABS sensor, or the connector at each sensor. Try cleaning them and re-connecting. Also It shouldn't be leaking any oil with that many miles on it.

 

Just to make you feel better about the truck you're looking at, I just bought one-a '98 12v 5 speed quadcab 2wd dually. Mine has 226,000 miles on it and runs perfect, except for loose steering. In looking for one, I've come across several other 98's that had over 250,000 miles on them and still run very well. No oil smoke, etc. You can expect that kind of life from the one you're looking at, and with the low mileage on it, you're not very far along the life cycle.

 

Look for the "53" block, and don't touch it if it has one. You might never have a problem, but you'll wish you never saw the truck if it cracks, because it's definitely out of warranty now.

http://www.Stamey.Info/Truck/Cummins53BlockFAQ.htm

Chris

 

Even if it does have it, they often never break. Also, there are now a couple different options to repair it. It's not the death sentence for the block that it used to be, in other words. If you're concerned, do a search here and on dieselram.com and you'll find info on the repair methods out there.

 

picked up the new truck this morning. doesn't appear to have the "53" block.

The speedo is kinda quirky at times, so i'll probably swap out the rear speed sensor and see if that fixes my ABS and BRAKE lights.

 

My fuel gauge is abit screwy but nothing you cant compensatef for.
Do a volume test on that lift pump if you dont have a pressure gauge.
You really want no part of replacing that VP-44. The price +labor bout made me cry