1989 HELP

[FD5]

I'm going to look at a 1989 reg cab, auto, with 190K miles, thinking about buying it for a work truck. What should I be looking for, as far as problems that would make me not buy it or problems associated with it that would be normal wear/replacement items about to go? Any help would be appreciated. I've had my 95 about 4 months and am assuming the 89 would also be a 12 valve?

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1995 2500, SLT Laramie, Xcab, auto, 3. 54, stock plate forward, Amsoiled throughout, dual by-pass filter, muffler and cat fell off, if you find them, there yours!!

 

[Jones]

190k for an '89 is pretty low miles---a plus of course. Things to research are how the truck was driven and maintained. Mine has 390k now and has survived two wrecks so I'd say they're pretty tuff if not abused. You didn't say how much but if a close inspection doesn't reveal any hidden or "covered-up" problem areas, it sounds like you've found a rose.
Good luck, Jones

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Jones
'84 Ramcharger w/CTD, non-gated 12, torqflite, NP205, Dana 60 and 70 w/ 3. 07s. Looks more or less stock, definately doesn't sound stock.

 

[Big Don]

Buy it!!!! You'll love it. I hav eone we bought new in 89 and it now has 160K and runs great. The 89's were pretty simple. I'd check for leaks on ther engine and make sure it idles smooth, then drive it if it runs good take it home. They love to work. Me and 'Ol Blue were on the road today delivering one tractor and picking up another for service work. She still runs great, but when the boost nears 30 lbs. in fourth gear the old grtrag starts growling. Still holding up... . it will probably outlast the rest of the truck because, when it starts growling, I dare it to come unglued as I am dying to install a NV4500 in the truck.


later
Don

 

[FD5]

The guy wants $4,500. He says its a work truck with faded paint but a straight body. I'll see it in the morning. One more question, is the transmission in the 89 a 3 speed?
Thanks for the info.

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1995 2500, SLT Laramie, Xcab, auto, 3. 54, stock plate forward, Amsoiled throughout, dual by-pass filter, muffler and cat fell off, if you find them, there yours!!

 

[SRT-6]

Hey Big Don my NV4500 growls in 4th when my boost gets up there too.

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88 GMC CREW CAB 4X4 89 6BT,NO INTERCOOLER YET,AUTO METER LIQUID FILLED GAUGES,NV4500,NP205,4. 10's,35 BFGA/TKO,6" LIFT,DETROIT LOCKER,16CM,K&N,3. 5 EXHAUST,BD "PRINCE OF DARKNESS"INJECTORS

 

[Jones]

All the '89s /auto I've dealt with had a beefed-up 727 (HD towing package type stuff)
in a different case to enable them to bolt up to the engine. Otherwise straight 727, simple and dependable as a brick. 4500$ sounds like a great price if it checks out OK. Good luck, Jones

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Jones
'84 Ramcharger w/CTD, non-gated 12, torqflite, NP205, Dana 60 and 70 w/ 3. 07s. Looks more or less stock, definately doesn't sound stock.

 

[FD5]

Thanks for the input. Just got back from the test drive. (Truck is about 90 miles from my house).

THE GOOD: The truck fired right up, on the highway test from a dead stop thru 75 mph (thats when I let off)it appeared strong with excellent shifts (no slipping). Body is straight (body work has been done, slightly noticable) roof paint is faded, color is silver/gray, A/C is cold and heat works, intermitted wipers and brakes work, he said he had the front end rebuilt (so new parts), new front tires.

THE BAD: Oil leak on front of the engine, I think it may be the seal around the oil fill tube (was this a problem on the 89's), the anti lock and brake lights on the dash will not go off, wiring harness on the driver side under the hood likes like it has been in to, fuel filter lines and placement are not stock as is the air filter.

That's pretty much it, let me know what you think. I will be calling him about 5 p. m.

Thanks guys,
FD5

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1995 2500, SLT Laramie, Xcab, auto, 3. 54, stock plate forward, Amsoiled throughout, dual by-pass filter, muffler and cat fell off, if you find them, there yours!!

 

[Mr.B]

Abs light has been on in my dad's truck for about the last 75,000 miles, i think this is pretty common. The oil leak, well, it does have 200k on it, just keep the engine full of oil, and you will be alright.

 

[Mr.B]

I say get it, my father has one and he bought it new. Has 260,000 miles on it now. IT is a 4x4 3spd auto. Rebuilt the trans once at 100,000 miles and that has been it. Its been a great truck and has seen a lot of abuse. The only engine problems have been a head gasket at 250,000 miles. Which me and him put on together. Still has all the original pump and injectors.

 

[FD5]

I would like to thank everyone for their input in helping me make up my mind. I go get the truck tomorrow.

Thanks again!!!

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1995 2500, SLT Laramie, Xcab, auto, 3. 54, stock plate forward, Amsoiled throughout, dual by-pass filter, Amsoil Dealer, muffler and cat fell off, if you find them, there yours!!