OK, so I don't own a Cummins, but I've made a deal to buy one. Been turning wrenches for over 30 years, but as a small equipment mech, not diesel, not automotive. Live in North Georgia, (some of you didn't know there was a 'north' and a 'south') where I work two jobs. Previously worked over twenty years as a rental equipment mech. Currently work full time as an equipment mech for a landscape co. part time I work on standby generators. Thirteen miles to work, most of my generator customers within an hour's drive. Haven't towed or hauled anything in the past forever that my old '97 Ram 2500 360cid gasser couldn't handle. That describes how I'll use the truck I'm about to buy: a 2001 QCLB total stock with almost 58,000 miles, garage kept, one owner, well cared for. obviously, my Cummins won't be put to any test, except that, at 55 y/o, I don't expect to ever buy another truck. Here's my question: The gentlemen that currently owns the truck is ill, has been for months. The truck hasn't been a daily driver for probably three years, likely longer than that. The wife would drive it to the mailbox a couple times a week. What should I do before I rely on it as a D/D. (Manual tranny)

 

Me personally would replace all the fluids and lube oils. Would take a good look at the tires with 58k could still be the originals and dry rot may be of concern. I would check the hoses and belt for dry rot but they are probably fine. Would check fuel and air filter and replace if necessary. Might want to at least put a test gauge on for the fuel pressure but ideally a permanent install. Other than that I think you will need to drive it a bit and go from there.

 

Me?

I would drive the heck out of it after changing the oil in the engine and checking the normal things like air filter, etc.

You definitely want to monitor fuel pressure so you don't kill the VP prematurely.

 

Thanks for the response. I'm on the same page as Barry. Truck has new Mich rubber, no issue there. After I get it home, it will be parked until I sell my old truck, time enough for fluids, inspections, and a FP gauge. Get the truck this weekend, looking forward to the 100 miles home.