First post. Just bought an '07 with 5.9L, Love it so far (only 4K mi.) My son wants an older Cummins. I found a nice '01 we can afford but am worried about some of the following: "53" engine blocks, injection pump and lift pump failures. Should I spend more and get something newer? I've been driving Powerstrokes and Duramaxes for 10+ yrs. but need your experience and advice regarding a used Cummins.
Thanks.

 

I dont think there were lots of 53 blocks in 01 but I would still take a look on the engine block on the drivers side down low near the front. Ya the injection pumps are known to fail, mine did, but Im still glad I got the truck I did. If you upgrade the lift pump and get a fuel pressure gauge I guess that would be kinda like preventative maitenance.

 

A former friend of mine (ain't it the truth that money ruins everything?) has/had an '01. I know he lost an injector pump, most likely from some bad fuel he got at a station in Alvin, TX. It COULD have been because his lift pump died, but I strongly believe it was a fuel issue.

Anyhow, that truck made me SURE I wanted a Dodge with a CTD.

I run 16oz of TCW-3 2 Stroke oil with each fill up as extra protection against problems, but man oh man I feel LUCKY I got my/this '03!!!

 

I've got an 01 WITH the 53. So far on the original IP with 128k on the clock. I keep a close eye on the fuel pressure and even have a parallel lift pump system i put together. Basically I kept the stock pump AND then routed a frame pump in parallel. So far so good. As you can tell, I'm not tooooooo worried about the 53 part of my truck. When it goes, it goes. so far so good!

 

I have an 01 with 269k miles and I love it. Just did all the front end stuff (still do not care for the steering) and trust this thing to go anywhere.

 

Mine has 121,000 on it with the stock original everything. No replacement LP or VP44. I baby it and don't do hotrod mods. It's not a 53 though. If he's not planning on bombing it I would jump on the deal, but if he wants to I would go with maybe a 12V or a newer 5.9.

I hope I didn't just jinx my truck now...

 

Mine has 166K with original VP and 3rd LP but with $70 Lp's, it's really not too bad. I've put a new front end under it but really didn't have to. So far, I've been very pleased with it even if I have to spend an extra $$ every now and then.

 

01's are a great year for sure (better than the third gens in my mind anyway).

Make sure its not a #53 block and address the fuel system issues and an 01 will just about run forever.

Make sure you have it scanned before buying - a lot of guys (or dealers for that matter) will unload trucks with dead VP-44 injector pumps.

 

I have a 01 with 135K on it. I replaced the lp at 120K with a FASS and haven't had any other problems since.

 

I have an '01, 178k miles, original LP, VP, and clutch. Best vehicle I have ever owned. All that has been replaced is brake rotors and shocks.

 

My 01 is great 212k with one LP replace that I know of. I dont have many front end problems being a 2wd. I plan on putting on another 200k on it at least.

 

im lovin mine.
easy to work on and cranks every time

the only thing i have had to do is replace the pitman, idler arm, shocks, and im about to do the lower ball joints

all the other stuff ive added cause i wanted to...like edge/attitude, bigger tires, taller springs, big air filter

 

Same Story with mine, bought the truck new... 213K now.. stock IP.. a few lift pumps.. 4x4.. new ball joints about 150-160... The upgraded steering parts are well worth the money on a 4x4.. (track bar, and DSS.. steering box brace..)
Bryan

 

Please elaboratate on the steering upgrades with mfr and/or retailer links, etc. and what the handling, ride, or other performance improvements are.

 

Buy it and enjoy it!! Just put a Walbro or Fass lift pump on it and a fuel pressure gauge. These trucks are tough. The injection pump will go when its ready and will happen to the new ones too. The IP price is getting cheaper and you can install it yourself. Even with power mods they are very dependable. Buy it, hit the happy button, and enjoy! Oh and another thing ...make sure you brush your teeth every day cause that smile will go from ear to ear....OH YEAH!!