Finally after 4 years and 6 vehicles later Im gettin a cummins. I just cant descide what to get though. I was thinkin either 12v, 24v, or 24v cr. I can only spend about $12,000. I wont be towin hardly at all. I want a descently quick truck that Ill drive on the weekends and take to the strip. I also plan on many upgrades to tranny and motor. What do yall think?

 

im in the same situation as you except im lookin to spend 4-5k lol gettin a 2nd gen though.i also wont be towin and want some SPEED

 

First or second gen. Hard to beat the VE or P pumps for ease of working on, upgrading and repairing.

I like the looks of the first gens, but I sure wish I had a lock up torque converter on my W250.

My dream truck would be an '80's crew cab 4x4 with a flat bed, P pumped engine, rh47 transmission, 3.07 axles and air ride. Exhaust, intake, IP and injectors set to make about 350 hp would be just right.

JP.

 

For your budget, get a nice 12 valve. CR trucks are probably gonna be out of reach or beat to death, and I wouldn't wish a VP44 on anybody.

 

What he said. Just remember when it needs work, these trucks cost in a massive way. Remember to budget that in as you dream & plan.

Make sure to check thoroughly for rust, frame damage, abuse and transmission trouble (automatics.) A rebuild 47RE auto is over $3500 by itself.

 

Look for a 97-98.4 5 spd 215hp w/P pump. Mine was a 97 3.54 2wd 5sp and with a few mods and a clutch, it was pretty fast - fast enough to beat any Hardley Ableson that tried me! The autos were only 180hp. Craig

 

Am I the only one that found this funny? That really narrows down the choices, buddy. So in other words, you're looking for a first gen or newer. Sorry for the sarcasm but I just had to comment on this.

 

nothing wrong with them i had 3 trucks with 'em and had less trouble with them then any other truck i had and i worked the dog crap out of them. Even twisted the frame on one