2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Should I consider this truck? Is it HO or SO?

[EHammett]

I'd been seaching for a 24V 3500 Long Bed Quad Cab 6-Speed 2wd. I found one today with 294,000 being a 2001 with one owner. The price is 10,500.



I've got a 98. 5 that went crazy on me in Texas coming back from a job. I had to put in a new radiator, 2 batteries, rebuild auto trans, rebuild starter, new VP44 and lift pump, new output speed sensor, and replace a heater core this summer.



I don't want to sell my truck having just dumped 5000 in it with 240,000 miles but I also don't want to buy a truck that is gonna do this to me again. It has 294k and one owner. The truck is extremely nice, interior and exterior is perfect, original paint, only a couple scratches on the tailgate. Any opinions? The truck would be perfect if mileage didnt matter, the looks, the condition, the options, etc.



This truck having a 6-Speed does that indicate it is the HO? How do you tell if you have an HO or SO?



Lastly, I know that I had bad luck with my truck and with any used vehicle there could be a problem, but as far as the components of this truck go should I be nervous about closing on 300,000 miles?



Thanks for your time

 

[Thomas]

... being a 2001 ... This truck having a 6-Speed does that indicate it is the HO? How do you tell if you have an HO or SO?...

The 6-speed transmission only came with the high output ISB model year 2001.

 

[WadePatton]

In my experience, the 1999 and 2000 sixer is an SO. The 01 and 02's are HO, with the larger input shaft. To end ALL questions about that, look on the pump cover tag. It'll be 235 or 245.



I've never been scared of trucks with "high" miles, but then some people make junk out of vehicles in only a few miles. The credit industry is what values all vehicles of X mileage the same. I certainly don't.



That being said, you should have a good idea of how to fix all them thingys you've already been through. I suspect that the 01 has had a starter and an alternater and a few sets of brakes done already. Lord only knows how long ANY VP44 will last, so be ready for that. 53 block is the only reason I'd really turn my nose up at that one.



Those front wheel bearing assemblies ain't cheap, and I lost one at 80k.



There's only so many things to wear out. I took an EF one FIDDY with 302 and 5-speed to 329k before I sold it. Engine was fine and only put one clutch in it. Hell it's still on the road and I KNOW it has over 500k on it--although I suspect the mill has been replaced.



If it's really clean and not just "car dealerised" clean, I wouldn't be scared at all--and I'd make darn sure to get full discount for them miles. IOW act like you're scared to death of the mileage to get the best deal. WHOOPS, letting my tricks out of the bag.



I've got one at 195k and one at 170k and one at 150k and all pushing 450 or so RWHP. Stock truck at 300 don't worry me much. :-laf



Good luck.

 

[EHammett]

53 block is the only reason I'd really turn my nose up at that one.

Is this a definite 53 block or are you saying IF it is a 53 you'd turn away

 

[duaneparks]

I believe he's saying "IF. " Not all '01's are 53 blocks (mine's not). Not all HO's are 53 blocks either. For that matter, not all 53 blocks have had problems Take a look at the block above the oil pan and see if there's a 53 stamped there, then you'll be able to make an even more informed decision.

 

[VicR]

For that matter, not all 53 blocks have had problems

If its got 300k on it, I'd think it would be safe to say that it was not a problem block.



-Vic

 

[WadePatton]

Good point Vic. Yeah I was saying I wouldn't get it IF it were a 53. But Vic is right, a weak block would have likely shown itself by now... unless the truck never towed or generally not used like a truck.



The "53" is on the pump side above the pan, if it's there.