Hello Everyone,
I'm new to the site and I'm just gearing up for my first major CTD purchase. My father drives a 1995 Freightliner 30 series with a 24 FT van body that is equipped with 5.9 Cummins Turbo Diesel but is the old 12 valve style coupled to a six speed transmission. He's had rave reviews of this engine and says the power and economy is impressive. I'm looking for a 1 Ton Dually reg cab to mount a hydraulic hay carrier bed onto. My question: Are the newer style 24 valve CTD with the improved pump for quieter operation worth the extra money or should a person stay with the old 12 valve style? Signed ignorant novice!

 

If you are thinking about noise the quiet ones didn't start until 2003.
Basically there were noisy 12 valves until 98, noisy 24 valves until 2002, and the new series which are quieter started in 2003.

 

shake a box of rocks or a box of marbles.. its your choice.

They are both great platforms though, but the newer trucks have a few extra goodies and comfort the older 12's dont..

 

For hauling hay, I'd get an older truck. Not a 3rd gen. Wouldn't be as ticked if something got boogered.

 

First of all, welcome to DTR!! You will find lots of good info on this site, and please don't be worried about being a novice. We're all learning here, and there is always much more to learn...

With regard to your application, I would suggest the simplicity of a 12-valve engine myself. Really the big differance is not the 12 vs 24 valves, it's the injection pump, and the old P7100 pump is nearly bulletproof. Take care of the Killer Dowell Pin (do a search, lots of info) and you have a very trouble-free setup for many miles of use.

Related, I would also look for a 5-speed tranny truck if your application would allow it. The automatics tend to be troublesome unless modified, likely the 5-speed will give you the best economy and be quite durable. Good luck with your search!