Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) buying a new truck?

[jaynes]

i found a '96 2500 ext. cab a/t 4x4 loaded with all options for sale at a lot. they were asking 15,900 for it. after test driving it, it kinda wandered a bit, the brakes seemed alittle jumpy when coming to a stop, and if you were sitting at idle with the truck in gear, the ac on, and you turned the wheel, the ac and power steering pump would load the engine down so much that if i tapped the go pedal, the rpms would go up just like they were supposed to, but when i left off the pedal, it would be so loaded by pwr steering and ac that it would die. I said i would only give em 13,500 for it. KBB prices it at 13,555. What do you guys think? Is this worth my money? The 4x4 works too. Fires right up, even after it dies. Once you get going and the rpms are up, it runs perfectly. Almost like the idle is set too low...



jaynes

 

[daveshoe]

How many miles on it?

 

[jaynes]

it's 95,000 something or other... not even 100k

 

[RDelissen]

figure out what needs fixing first ... it adds up quickly :-laf

 

[jaynes]

welli think i'd defiantly take it to a mechanic to have it looked over really good first, then i'd also be worried about the KDP. But i hear these trucks and engines, some of them going forever without a problem! I don't want to jump into another money pit and not be able to claw myself out of it... which is what position i'm in now with my '91. I want upgrade, i've always loved the P pumped engines!!

 

[jaynes]

but, uh... is there anything specific i should be aware of with a truck of this year, anything to be suspicious of with 95 k miles on the clock?

 

[vssman]

My 96 has the jumpy brakes - pretty normal, probably needs to have the rear shoes adjusted or they were probably replaced with a set that likes to absorbs moisture. Sounds like the idle is just set too low. Wandering front end - probably worn balljoints/tie rods/track bar (get that checked as the price of the parts can quickly add up). There were a few recalls that were needed - the important one - vac pump had a check valve added to keep oil from contaminating the lines & anything operating off of vac. As for the KDP, look for any large oil leaks around the front cover and KDP the thing if you buy the truck. I'd also look for missing paint and/or break off screw on the afc housing. The breakoff screw should be at the front inner position on the afc. If you do buy it, I bet it's time for new starter contacts too. As for the price... It sounds a little high, buy hey I wouldn't take any less than 25k for mine :-laf

 

[Dirtscience]

Do you have the VIN, I can run a CARFAX for you, I have a few days left.



Mark

 

[jaynes]

this is all very good info. No i don't have the vin, but I can get that for you. how soon do you need it by? vssman, did you buy your's brand new in '96 or something?

 

[Dirtscience]

Just post the VIN to this thread. I have more time than I thought. 10/2 my carfax expires.



Mark

 

[jaynes]

oh well i'll have it before then

thanks!



~j

 

[vssman]

vssman, did you buy your's brand new in '96 or something?

Yup - ordered and built for me.

 

[jaynes]

nice... .

 

[wcjp]

Adding a DSS (Darrins Steering Stabilizer) will help alot with the steering.