Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) The Dreaded.................................."53"

[RJMurphy]

I am looking at a 99 Quadcab Dually with 128,xxx Miles. It is for sale by the Original owner, he used it to tow a 3,000 boat, and for work (Home Construction) The truck is in GREAT shape, runs very good, he changed the Oil every 5,000. I can get it for ~14,000. 00 However, it has the "53" block. Should I run and hide from this truck, and keep looking? How many "53" blocks actually develop cracks? I understand it is out of warranty, but if the block develops cracks at high milage has Dodge/Cummins helped out in any way, od would I be "On my own" The lift pump and Vp44 are untouched originals. Is this truck a time bomb, or just a GOOD one? He is selling the truck, because he now has a "Company" truck. Peace Murfman

 

[dresslered]

Don't worry about the '53' block--it has one. You will win the lottery just about as many times as cracking one. Check the condition of the coolant as this may change the odds. Also, check the pressure/flow of the lift pump (pressure must be taken at WOT). If it is out of spec. , walk away unless the previous owner will 'credit' you the cost of a new injection pump (can't tell how much wear this would have taken with a bad lift (transfer) pump. If, somehow, the original lift pump meets specs. , thank the lift pump gods and buy it! Otherwise, that truck hasn't even worked up a sweat yet.

 

[RJMurphy]

Thanks for the reply, I figured if I buy the truck, I will change the lift pump with the latest update version, and add a pusher pump near the tank, and a fuel pressure gauge, along with, Pyro, boost and trans temp gauges. I think I'll offer him 13,500 for it and see if he bites. Thanks again Murfman



BTW How much is a bare block from Cummins anyway?

 

[dresslered]

Not sure what the block costs as there has been quite a range in prices posted. Take a simple pressure test under load. The '99 has a nice 1/4" NPT port on the top of the fuel filter and you can tape a temporary gauge to the windshield while you mash the throttle to the ground up a steep hill. This is the thing that I would be most concerned with. If he is running at zero pressure, why would you even consider buying it as there is no way to tell the state of the injection pump. If it is good pressure, why would you replace it? Do the gauge as you suggest and keep a spare pump under the rear seat. Good luck.



P. S. I'm not a big fan of the pushers becuase I have heard mixed results. I am going on my third pump and going to try just relocating it to the back. Why complicate things?

 

[csutton7]

I agree with dresslered on the 53 block and the pusher pump--buy a good single pump and then buy another for a backup--relocating it back by the tank and running it off a relay is even better---chris

 

[dresslered]

Great advice from a guy who has a pusher turbo!