2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission need a new truck....

[paulsmith]

I have three trucks, 2 12 valves, 1 2001 24 valve.





one 12 valve is almost done, the other I still drive, but the 2001 is my main work truck. I own a trailer sales, so we pull all the time, and I have good emplyees who drive for me.



Anyway, The 2001 has 350,000 miles. Engine was rebuilt at 195,000 miles ($9,000) the speed transmission was rebuilt at 225,000 mile ($3000. 00) and VP44 replaced at some point ($2000. 00) plus several lift pumps, various small parts, etc.



In the last 4 weeks, I have spent $1300. 00 on a new heater core and AC evap, then $400. 00 for a new AC compressor, $500. 00 for a new dash panel (too cracked up to install)



The new rotors on the back axle (cracked from age) new park brakes, $500. 00,



The front wheel bearings last week $600. 00



Then a new stater and new batteries (the shop some how said they both went at the same time, and this has to be the 6th starter on this truck) $500. 00



Today, I get a call, the ABS pump wont quit running, I see here it needs a new ABS controller, figure $400 plus...



Fuel filers every few weeks...



this truck cant seem to run more than 4 days without a repair...



I figure I have spent $20,000 on repairs on this truck in the last 18 months...



So, I keep hoping I have the truck "fixed". the body and interior are in great shape, but... .



BTW, I have the 96 Auto truck with 293,000 miles, Put new shocks and and a new starter, but not even a new transmission (I know... weird!) otherwise, a new set of set covers, and she is ready to go...





so, I rarely have trouble from the old engines, but that 24 valve...

I need a truck, I hat to get a another 96 or 97 at it is a 13 year old truck... but I have the thought of another 98 to 02, so do I look at the 03 and up, or what... .



Help me out here... I am at about $15,000 max for a used truck. A 5 or 6 speed might be best... . A 12 valve 6 speed 4x4 would be the best...

 

[Grizzly]

Sounds like you need a brand new 3500 C&C with a 6 speed Aisin auto. With what you're paying on repairs, you may as well get a new truck with factory warranty.



I also believe that the people driving for you may be abusing your trucks.

 

[AABEN]

I think Grizzly has hit it on the head. Get you a new one and brake it in your self. That way you can fell the power it has. === Good luck

 

[Hammer]

one 12 valve is almost done

HUH?... .

Never...

The might 12v may get a tad tired but done,unless the crank is hanging out its never done.

 

[Joe G.]

Your own experience answers your question. Get another '96 from some part of the country like the south west where rust is not a problem.

 

[SKuyper]

There was a nice low mileage 1998 12valve engine out of a rolled 98 2500 on eBay... for 2k! in Indiana... I'd buy that and find a high mileage used 95-98 truck cheap, drop the 12v in and you should be good for another 200k. I kick myself daily for ever letting my 12 valve truck go... had the same gear ratio as my current truck ( in sig ) and two extra tires on the ground... yet consistantly got 5-6 mpg better fuel mileage. It was also more maintenance friendly... at 389,800 miles, it was still on its original P7100 AND OE injectors and would run circles around and out pull the current one ! The current 24 valve has had 2 VP44's, three lift pumps, 2 transmissions and several other odds n ends... before I ever did any mods to it ! Yeah... I kick myself daily for EVER going electronic and selling the old truck... . why... rust... doors and fenders falling apart, dually box was a rag...

 

[AABEN]

Rd Runner has a 97 3500 club cab with 156K on it it looks very good also has a Gera_Vender over drive for sale was his DAD and needs to sale. Looks like a good by all ready set up with fifth wheel. === Good Luck