Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Recommended mechanics in the Houston area

[LarsenJ]

I have blow-by issue with my 2001 and eventually I'll get it fixed. At the moment I add oil more than I really want to.



My experience with the Dodge dealership has been so so.



Does anyone have a recommendation for a good diesel mechanic in the Houston area?

 

[knewman]

i have been using Dennis Cole at Allen Samaules Dodge don't know if you want to pay dealer prices but you could always stop and talk to him he has been a cummins mech lots of years and has lots of friends

 

[RustyJC]

I guess the obvious, money-is-no-object source for Cummins expertise is Cummins Southern Plains on the northeast side of Houston just inside Loop 610.



You might also contact Michael (MDW) or Curtis (gitchesum) at Hot Rod Diesels to see if they have any suggestions.



On edit - since the truck is a 2001, are you still under the 7 year/100,000 mile engine warranty? If so, you'd have to go through a dealer, but the dealer can get approval from DC to refer the work to Cummins if the dealer doesn't have a qualified diesel tech who can perform major engine repairs.



Rusty

 

[LarsenJ]

Unfortunately mileage is at about 122000. I have talked to Cummins on 610 and they certainly sounds quite knowledgeable (shouldn't they?). Didn't talk cost/price - worse than dealer?



Thanks for your help.

 

[RustyJC]

I don't know how Cummins Southern Plains hourly shop rates compare to your dealer's. I would think the Cummins guys, due to their specialized expertise, could get the problem repaired in fewer shop hours than your dealer, though, so it could wind up being cheaper at Cummins. I guess you'd have to get a firm quote from both to be sure, but until the problem is identified, you'd be hard pressed to do that.



Rusty

 

[Southern Ram]

Give Chris at RelentlessDiesel a call (936)856-3121. His shop is in Willis just north of Houston. He does good work and is very smart.



Todd