Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Broken truck with alot of money invested

[PMerrill]

I have posted in this column before under the same heading. Have new information to share with the membership of this GREAT forum. FINALLY!!!!! After two years. Found that #5 cylinder had a cavitation hole in it. My 1996 3500 4wd first exhibited signs of oil in the coolant. After having oil cooler tested and replacing head gasket twice I have come to this point. Money controls alot of how long it takes you to repair things most of the time and that has definitely been the case for me. I have well over $12,000 tied up at this point. Even with all the difficulty I have had with diagnosing and getting this issue repaired I would not trade it for anything. I own the GREATEST diesel truck on the market!!!!!!! And belong to a great membership in the TDR!!!!!!!! Thanks for all the help.

 

[HBarlow]

Now that you have identified the problem perhaps you can have a sleeve inserted in the bad cylinder and save the block. A sleeve should be a lot cheaper than a reman engine or rebuilding a salvage yard block.

 

[Missouri Mule]

Where was the cavitation hole in the cylinder? Why didn't you find it when you removed the head while replacing the gasket?

Glad you found the problem.