Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) 435,000 miles...

[Red_Rattler]

Alright I'm contemplating goin to go look at a 96 4x4 with 435k on it. What should I look for and if I purchase expect to be dealing with here? I'm a 24v guy with not alot of knowledge on the mighty 12v. I'm gonna look at the timing cover real close though to see if the kdp has made a hasty exit. The truck is gonna be a puller/toy so I just need mechanically solid over looks at the moment. Is this to high of milage to expecting to be able to "work" the truck every weekend the whole summer?

 

[GAmes]

Too high mileage for a work truck???:-laf:-laf:-laf:-laf

 

[Red_Rattler]

Well it's gonna be workin pullin a 45,000lb sled 300' at a time

 

[GAmes]

I don't think it matters what the mileage is for sled pulling. You'll be replacing lots of parts no matter what, either due to breakage or for increased performance.

 

[Skydiver]

Do you plan on doing any engine work/mods before hitting the track? Have you ever pulled a sled in the past?
Just check for blowby and good oil pressure. If you add too much fuel or timing the head gasket is going to suffer first. Could melt a piston.
Enjoy and kiss your money good bye.

 

[Vaughn MacKenzie]

I have 429,400 on mine and I don't think my engine would handle much sled pulling. It runs good but it's definitely not as "young" and strong as it used to be.

 

[Skydiver]

That's kind of the way I feel Vaughn. Sled pullin is not easy on any part of the drive train.
I do know of a man in Georgia who was taking stock 12 valve engines from wrecks and tuning them for maxium power. Just turbo, timing and fuel mods. They would last a good while. When one would blow he slapped his pump and turbo on another engine. No head, cam or piston mods. Just pour the fuel to it and give it enough boost.
We all know they are the toughest little diesel ever made.

 

[Red_Rattler]

Yea I've pulled my 03 before along with my ol 2000. I'm just lookin for a truck so I can just use my 03 for a dd. Also yes I would do some engine mods as in head studs and oring the head tune the pump and bigger turbo but nothin to the internals. As for pissin money away I know that comes with the sport but you only live once so you may as well get the most outa it! But I passed on the truck anyways. The body was beyond toast and the engine ran good just took too long to fireup IMO low compression? Maybe? He wouldn't budge on the price so I said seeya

 

[KB0OU]

My 96 has 415k miles and runs better than when new.

I say go for it.