Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) What to look for in a used 12v?

[JLinder]

I am looking to add another horse to the barn, but this one is gonna be a 12v. It's gotta be a 4x4, and probably a club cab. What things do I need to look for, and what are the common problems besides the KDP?



Thanks for the advice.

 

[dremelts]

If you can find a early 98 you can get the Quad Cab with the 12V.

 

[JLinder]

The holy grail of 12v=

'98 QC 4x4. That's what I am hoping to find, but I'm not locked in on that particular truck.





I am more interested in what specific things I need to look for (potential problems and what-not).

 

[MJawsman]

If distance isn't a huge issue, check out www.awtrucks.com. They have many 1998 models, but I'm not sure how many are 12 V.

 

[BCFAST]

JLinder, I sent you a PM... .

 

[GFreshour]

What to look for

Maintenance history and usage. i. e. mine was used to deliver travel trailers and had an aux tank in the back, very few shutdowns and restarts - wear occurs before the oil pressure builds up..... I now have 502,345 miles on the motor, mildly bombed and smile madly when passing other traffic going uphill with a camper... it isn't the mileage, it's the usage, i. e. stop and go is no good... bad for engines and other moving things.

 

[illflem]

I would look for a truck whose engine hasn't been modified. Bombing and the driving habits it promotes are probably harder on a rigs longevity than anything else. Other than that there really aren't many problems with these trucks.

 

[A Johnson]

Ditto what illflem said.

When I go shopping for one the first place I will look is at the AFC housing of the fuel pump to see if I can tell where its been removed, or tampered with. I will not buy one with non factory gauges. Just because it has gauges doesn't mean its been overfueled, but my feelings are anyone with an exhaust temp gauge installed probably has a reason to watch them.



One of the biggest things IMHO to do, is have the blowby checked with a water manometer by a competent mechanic. It shouldn't cost you over an hours labor and will give you some insight as to the condition of the cylinders.



I think your decision to shop for a twelve valve is a wise one. The twenty four valves are better than anything Ford or Chevy offer, but for longevity and lower costs I think the twelves are the way to go. The p7100 fuel pump while expensive, is very durable.

Oh Yeah, if you ever do decide you need a little extra power, no worries it's available. A Johnson