Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) What to look for when buying a 99

[cumminstogetya]

I just sold my truck tonight and am already looking for a new truck. I found a truck that seems like its in good shape.



1999 Dodge 2500, 4x4, 6 sp, 159k, power everything, quad cab, etc.



What should I look for when looking over a 99? I know the 53 block problem, but where is it located? If it is a 53 block, is it destined to crack, or are some of them ok? If it happens to be a 53 and it cracks, will Cummins warantee it?



Any suggestions are very helpful.



John

 

[juicedcummins]

Try and find a late 01. 5 with disc brakes. The threat #53 seems to be gaining ground. Add kdp to the list also.

The 53 is stamped on the front of the drivers side.

 

[cumminstogetya]

99s had dowel pins? I would prefer a 12 valve, but this seems like a good deal. Is there anybody close to South Holland, IL that wouldn't mind checking a truck out for me?



John

 

[VicR]

Pretty cool - one of the rare 99 6-speeds. Those are not the HO engine, they are the standard output engine (which is pretty good for modifying as I understand it)



I haven't noticed any particular problems with my 99 - its actually been pretty trouble free. I would actually love to find a nice 99/00 6 speed QC/SB 4x4... but then the 97 would have to go



-Vic

 

[cumminstogetya]

I also heard that the standard outputs are better for modifying. As I understood it, it has somthing to do with less timing than the HO. I actually wasn't even aware that some 99's had 6 speeds.

 

[TSRAM]

I just got bit three weeks ago with the 53. Got a E-mail from another new member with one this week just a couple hrs away. Mine at 62,500 miles his at 128,000.

And no, Cummins has stopped with the 50% of the repair bill as of a month ago. Now they only offer $1000 towards the repair. It's gonna make me think twice about CTD #3 when the time ever comes.

 

[cumminstogetya]

Thats good to know about Cummins. Them not offering to pay for all of the repairs just doesn't seem right to me.