Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) what to look for

[CWinslow]

I am kinda new to the site I have really enjoyed all of the info i have recieved I am a current 12v. owner looking into buying a 24v. I am wondering what to look for years to stay away from, recommendations on improvments to make. I am probably looking to go around 500-600 hp. somewhere in there.

 

[CWinslow]

by recommending modifications i am talking chips ect. I plan to do the intake and exhaust before i put the hammer down, and the coal train behind me.

 

[bbodammer]

I love my '02 It has 75k on it and no major issues. Even with the upgrades the stock transmission seems to be holding up well. I heard something about the late 90's to watch out for, but couldn't tell you what. Do some research here and you'll find plenty of info. Good luck!!

 

[ctd8999]

What year

I'd look for an 02 the newest of the 2nd gens. You probably can find a nice low mileage truck if your not in a rush to buy one. Thanks Steve B.

 

[bbodammer]

Oh yeah as far as upgrades, you'll definatly want gauges one of which has to be a fuel pressure gauge. The vp44 injection pump has been hit or miss on some trucks along with the lift pump. Mine are all still in great condition. There are a lot of good boxes you can add for extra power I chose the edge comp b/c the feedback was great on them and its adjustable in the cab. These motors also respond well to injectors if you want the power to be more smooth. Most guys love them in any range from 80hp+. I could go on and on, but I'm sure some others will chime in with their thoughts as well.

 

[Wiredawg]

I don't know that any year is better than the other. I had a 2000 2500 4X4 QC LB w/ 6spd transmission w/ 56K miles. Good truck, no major problems. I traded for a 2002 3500 4X4 QC 6spd. Replaced the VP44 @ 35K miles and transfer case at 69K miles under warranty. It has 76K miles on it and I have a leaking rear pinion seal.



Personally, I would go w/ a 2000 to 2001. 5 that has the front axle disconnect system that you can install a 2WD low switch on. This is great if you're doind low speed backing w/ heavy trailers.



On my 02, I have DDII injectors, TST PM 3 adjustable, BD 4" exhaust, K&N FIPK, BD exhaust brake; FASS, ; Piers Hybrid turbo 14CM housing; BD short-shift kit; RS-9000 adjustable shocks, Hellwig HD anti-sway bar; 600 watt amp/replaced all speakers. Switched EGT gauge w/ pyros pre and post turbo; fule pressure, boost, fuel gauge for aux tank and backpressure gauge for exhaust brake.



Wiredawg

 

[CWinslow]

that is some good input i am not in a rush to buy so i am going to do some more research. I have been looking at 00- 02 6 speed or 5 speed. I blew up the transmission in the 98 after i pulled the fuel plate out so i am going manual. What about clutches. I understand Southbend is about the only way to go.

 

[Wiredawg]

I pretty much trashed the clutch on the '00 I had, so I figured I would also do it on my '02. So, I bought a South Bend Con O-Fe as a safeguard. I still have the stock clutch and am pushing nearly 400 HP/970 ftlb tq. The main difference is I rev out to 2,500 rpm empty and 3,000 rpm when towing. Keeps the clutch healthy.



I have 76K miles on the '02 and never slipped the clutch, even w/ a few 3rd gear starts, necessary to launch into heavy traffic.



Good luck w/ your upgrades. You'll never run out of help, advice and opinions here on the TDR.



Wiredawg

 

[hammersley]

There is an Order of

Bombing - that I can't seem to find - hopeful somebody else will post it... . and remember you can't add the hp claimed by all the mfgs products and expect that will be what actually happens to your truck... ... IT WILL BE LESS!

 

[CWinslow]

Always great advice from all. Drove a 01 yesterday had the comp on it. 4" straight. The transmission was trashed. never got into overdrive. overall decent truck but is it worth buying a truck and putting a transmission in after someone else trashed the first. especially for 22000. I think i will keep my eyes open for a shifter.

 

[SnoKing]

2001. 5 was best of breed. That is a 2001 that has rear disc brakes. Early 2001's had drums on the rear. In 2002, most lost the CAD (Center Axle Disconnect) on the front end. So the front stuff turns all the time. This is assuming that you want a 4x4. If you buy an auto truck, you will want to install a custom transmission (you said "I am probably looking to go around 500-600 hp"), as the stock transmission and torque convertor are greatly lacking, and will handle only the most basic upgrades. Where do you live? Try to get a ride in a members truck with a good after market transmission. See Sig for what I think is best.



If you look at 98. 5 to around 2000, watch out for the 53 block issue. Do a search on 53 block.



Have the lift pump fuel pressure checked before hand on anything that you buy. If you find a truck with zero or really low fuel pressure at WOT, the VP44 will most likely be ready for replacement soon also.



On 2000-2002 you can cycle the key on three times without starting and read the error codes on the odometer. 0216 is really bad news (VP44 Injection Pump timing).



SNOKING