Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) '98 12V worth it?

[JNasty]

First off newbie here, 1st post. Hi All!

I'm looking to pick up a skid steer and trailer for my business, and happen to come across someone unloading just that and a '98 12v 3500 qc slt 4x4 5 spd 204k miles with a few mods. wants 10K for truck alone. I'll admit I haven't done enough searching on the site but this has come up kinda fast and looking for advice while I'm trying to get qualified for loan.

Is the 12 Valve the way to go or should I consider newer 24 valve or even the 3rd generations? Price is a consideration, that's why I'm considering the 12v. Any help greatly appreciated. Thanks

 

[DennisDuncan]

Be sure to check the block. The 98s can have what is called a "53" block. It was a new design that can crack, especially one that has been modified. There will be a large "53" stamped in the block. I'm pretty sure it is on the front drivers side but check both sides to be sure. If there is no stamp your good to go. I myself am in love with the 12 valves, because they are much more simple and easier to work on, but there are thousands of 24 valves and 3rd gens out there that are great trucks. Hope that helps, and if you have any more questions just ask!!!

 

[bigdaddydieseldan]

hey jnasty

10,000 seems a little high to me with 204,000 miles on it but for overall easiness for working on the 12 valve is by far the easiest to work on for people who don't have much knowledge and do yourself a favor and check on the the kdp I do not believe that it could possibly be a 53 block from what I have read the 53 blocks were 24 valves only

 

[JNasty]

Well I've discovered the "search" forum and have been reading about the 53 block and the KDP! I have heard of the block 53 problems but thought it was the 24v only, didn't realize it could affect the 12v.

$10K, according to NADA is a good price. All the ball joints and front track bar have been replaced. New centerforce dual friction clutch 50k ago, pyro/boost gauges full 4" exhaust and a bd#11 fuel plate. Not sure what that all means I'm really just looking for something that is ready to go.

 

[hsmith]

If it is in good shape, no rust, fenders missing, etc. I think it is a good deal. Heck of a lot less than I would take for mine!

 

[Dave M]

My 97 3500 12V 5spd with 225,000 miles is a "53" block. No problems yet. I paid $14,200 for mine about 4 years ago.



I'd say the 98 12V is one of the most desireable years of the 12V. With the mods yours has I'd say its a good deal.



Oh... mine was stock when I bought it but no rust and in great shape (body, paint, interior and drivetrain). I've put at least $3K-$4K into it.

 

[JGK]

53 blocks were on the 12 valves, too. Mine is one. But don't sweat those too much. The occurance of the cracking is not at all common. Of far greater concern is the KDP. It's an easy fix with the right tools but real expensive to repair if it bites you.



Once that's been addressed, the 12 valves are reliable and simple to repair if something breaks.



-Jay

 

[SpencerC]

Yeah don't worry too much about the 53 Blocks, if it was going to crack, chances are it would have long before 204K miles... Only a handful are problematic. I would go for it if it runs good and the body/frame etc. . is still in good/decent condition

 

[95Cummins12Valve]

Sounds pretty good to me, that centerforce clutch is gonna be the weak link for you, my truck had one in it when I bought it and once I put a plate and gov. springs in mine and it slipped my clutch, just my two cents and experiences. Enjoy your truck!

 

[chuckwilson]

Sounds like a buy to me!!!!!!!!

 

[pwerwagn]

BUY it!!!



has anyone had a 12V 53 block crack where the 24v's do yet? I havent heard of one.

Mine is a 53 block and has had the crap beat out of it. 270K miles, regular missed oil changes, been hot (230*+) about 10 times, etc.

Dont worry about the 53.



--Jeff

 

[Dave M]

Sounds pretty good to me, that centerforce clutch is gonna be the weak link for you, my truck had one in it when I bought it and once I put a plate and gov. springs in mine and it slipped my clutch, just my two cents and experiences. Enjoy your truck!

If the clutch goes just upgrade to an SBC. The centerforce may last quite a while. My stock clutch was holding fine until a few months ago and it started slipping due to a leaking rear crank seal. Since I was planning on going for more HP anyhow it was a good excuse to convince my wife to get the SBC.



Buy the truck if its not been in the Rust Belt.

 

[JNasty]

I'm going to check out the truck, skid steer tomorrow. Seller did tell me it has a oil leak, around 2 quarts every oil change,3000miles, and the fuel gauge is a little erratic around 1/4 tank level.

I'll ask about the KDP and check for leaks possibly associated from it,cracked case. Will also look to see if it's a 53 though I don't think that would stop me if it was. I'm no mechanic but anything else I should be looking for? Thanks

 

[WPeschel]

I just bought my 98 quadcab 4x4 dually 12 valve about 3 months ago... I LOVE THIS THING. I paid 13,500 for mine. . It had 215,000 miles, but very clean. . I had been looking for about 6 months prior to finding this one... Very hard to find. . I wouldnt take less than 20,000 for mine. . Good luck. . I wouldnt touch a 24 valve due to the pump problems. . I would only go with the 12 valve or cr IMO. .

 

[Missouri Mule]

The oil leak could be front seal vacuum pump seal or the worst the kdp could of come out and put a hole in timing case cover.

The bd #11 means hp as been added.

 

[cruiser_2]

I wonder what I could get for my 98 with 501,000 miles on it. I can tell you it has been a wonderful truck and I will take it anywhere on a whim even with over 500,000 miles on it and never fear getting stranded! Go for it.

 

[JNasty]

Well just got back from checking out truck and skidsteer. The KDP has been taken care of Oo. Not sure where the oil leak or leaks? are coming from, but doesn't seem a big deal just a little messy cause the fan blows it around.

From what I've read here I'd be stupid to let this truck go. Still have to work on the finances but Hopefully this truck will be my signature soon.

 

[Forrest Nearing]

I think that's a great deal for that truck! 98 12v's will always command more to those who want them.



the 12v is THE way to go... you get more truck and reliability for the dollar. the 98 is the icing on the cake.



I have had three 98 12v's, a 97 and a 91. You CAN NOT beat the 12v for reliability!!! and they're no slouch in the power department with the right mods



my '04 is a lot nicer/newer looking, it's got twin turbos and all sorts of fancy-pants electronics, etc.



but my '98 that I rely on EVERY DAY for work would spank it in a drag race! (not that I drag race my trucks)



on the big end, the '04 might pull my 98, but that ol' P-pump really puts out the fuel when the right foot asks for it!!!



the '04 is more like "oh, you want rail pressure? hold on for a couple seconds while I ramp up"

 

[KnightR]

I bought my 98 3500 loaded with xtra goodies incl. tanks (128 gal. ) it has 123,000 but I just found out it has a 96 12v in it stock, but completely rebuilt, new everything on the exterior and interior of the engine, new fuel lines, new front end (reciepts show over $5000 I think that was a little to much but I did'nt pay it) New tires, brakes. I did give premium $15K a year ago, but as my photo site shows it's immaculate and it's never been out of the state of California before I bought it.

 

[Breed]

I bought a 98 Quad Cab 12v brand new in 98 and it's been a great truck, I loved it from the first day and still do, going to keep it it till the wheels fall off. It tows my 5er and does a great job!, I suggest you buy the truck, you'll love it.