Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Replacing a cracked block under warranty?

[Rockcrawler]

Ok- I searched and learned I'm not alone with the cracked block. I can see it, about 8" long, sprung the leak towing about 7k at about 68000 miles.



Sounds like the dealer will give me a short block though i'm not sure and concerned they might try to just replace the block. Will they give me a new or reman short block?



how do i know the replacement block is the newer thicker casting which supposedly takes care of the problem?



Needless to say this is a dissapointing development- I can get this kind of reliability out of a gas engine- was planning run this one 400k +.



I don't tow nearly as heavy as I used to, an 03 gasser 2500 may be in my future. The lack of noise would make the CFO happy- the 03 diesel is still a little loud for her.

 

[Ncostello]

Rockcrawler,

Where did the crack form?? Just curious. Didn't know there was a thicker casting available. What year did this thicker block arrive to market??

 

[Rockcrawler]

Under the rear freeze plugs, pass side

Do a search and you can learn a lot about this. i heard back from Cummins/ Dodge.



Dodge will use a new SB, the 54 casting is substantially thicker in this area.



Supposed to be rare but does happen.



New SB gets 100k-68k=32k warranty



looking at about a week downtime.