Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) racin'

[new2dodge]

is anybody racing w/ a53block? i have read all the warnings, but i was just wondering how hard you can work 1 of these before you need to start to really worry. BOMB IT!!!!!Oo.

 

[csevers]

When you want to start worrying is up to you. I was not to happy to find this little bit of info out way back when. But I have gotten over worrying to much I can't do much about it till some thing happens, if it happens. Just keep it in the back of your mind when you buy the next (power adder) I have done a little driving down a 1/4 mile (you can't really call it racein when it is that slow) and started Sled pulling this year I am probably pushing my luck but what the hell. You only live once .



Craig

 

[BillGotthelf]

Look at my 99 sig. Last year I ran about 470 hp, this year 650 and with some juices who knows. That big old 53 on the block don't scare me.

 

[Lordsman]

attn. csevers

csevers,

My '99 is just like yours except I have a 2500. My truck was built in 5/99, St. Louis. I cannot fing a #53 on my block, or any number other than an etched # on block above oil filter housing and below the exhaut manifold. Did you find a 53 on your block? If so, where is it located?

 

[jgillott]

new2dodge



I too have a good old 53. Does it bother me to know that many have had problems with the block cracking... . yes! Am I going to worry about it or loose sleep over it... ... . no. Think of it this way. If you are going to be doing any kind of competitive motor sports, you are bound to break something at some point. God knows that I've seen my share on my vette. Now will it be the 53? Maby... but my suggestion is to enjoy your truck in any way you like and worry about it if it happens.



Now to make you feel a little better. There is a local gentlemen here that makes a ton of power in one of his rides and I'm pretty sure that he has a 53. I'm thinking that he, like Bill, is around 650 Hp on fuel only. I certainly don't want to bring him any bad luck, but so far, from what I understand, the block hasn't been an issue.



Justin

 

[Chipstien]

Considering how many 53 blocks are out there... ... ..... and how many people have had problems with it, I wouldn't worry about it. So many things have to be just right. Kinda like winning the lotto. Don't lose sleep over it... ... . if it happen, it happens.