Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) whats the 411 on 24v's

[sstockton]

Ok, I'm looking at buyinng a 24 valve, and I think I want a six speed 4x4. My concerns are what problems might arise with this truck.

My first question is, Did the 6 spd only come in an HO or can I get it in an SO? I know to watch out for the 53 block and I'm aware that the L/P goes out and takes the VP44 with it.

What are the odds that this will happen, does it happen to every truck? I will definately put a fuel pressure gauge in, but how safe does that make it, if pressure drops rapidly do I have time to stop the truck and Save my VP44?



Also, if I do buy a six speed, who makes the best clutch, how much, and I'm thinking I'll build the truck up to 450hp or so, what clutch will hold that?



If there are anyother concerns with these trucks, with drive line what are they. I'll probably buy a truck with about 100k on it, what kind of life are you guys gettiing out of the drive train.



Thanks,

Sean

 

[Supermod56]

As far as I know the HO is the only one with the 6-speed, I have the SO and had to buy a 6-speed to do the conversion. There are guys on here with 2-300K on their trucks with not too many drivetrain issues. South Bend makes the best clutch, I will be around 400 HP here soon, and I got the Con-OFE, because I tow all the time. It's rated at 450. They make a FE that is rated at 500, little grabby for everyday driving is the consensus. Yes, all of them have L/P issues, get a gauge and carry a spare, or upgrade to a FASS or RASP, I got the RASP. Get the 2002, it has the rear disc brakes.



Tom

 

[DHayden]

Ditto on SouthBend, I have a Con Fe and it is a tad grabby starting out in 2nd but starting out in first even towing is fine. It will be grabby when backing if its going up any type of incline.

The 2001. 5's and on (like mine) have rear disc brakes, get them if you can. With the lift pump its not if, its when.

 

[VicR]

Late 99 and 2000 model's could get a 6-speed with the SO engine. Not sure of what the total production numbers are, but they are pretty low.



71,500 happy miles on mine, 53 block/lift pump/and VP-44 still good.



-Vic

 

[RJPotts]

Dunno if you want a dually or not. Mine's for sale though.

Exactly as it is in my sig. 6,000 miles left on the Cummins warranty.

-R. J.

 

[amnewsom]

I will sell you my 02 reg cab - VP and LP already replaced, one headache gone!



Try to grab an late 02, no CAD on the front end

 

[yenga80]

amnewsom, what is the CAD in the front end that your talking about. never heard of it. i'm also debating whether to buy a 02' or an 03'.

thanks

andy

 

[AKAMAC]

CAD..... Center Axle Disconnect. On the 2002 and up trucks the front drive shaft spins when in 2WD. This, along with a a lot of other stuff, was eliminated from the 01 MY. The 01. 5 had the HO, CAD, PS vanity mirror and grab handle with the rear disk setup.

 

[amnewsom]

early 02s, like mine have CAD, I cant find the build date they switched. I wanted rear discs, so I dont mind the lack of ammenities, key trim ring, vanity mirror, full side trim, etc. Yes they are the end of a production line but I like them the best. Buddy has a 99, nice truck but I prefer the 01+.



'03? Nice truck, I would think an '04 not 04. 5 is a better choice, IMO. My brother has 04 3500 dually, loves the truck, I like it, if I bought a newer one it would be a low mileage 04.

 

[sstockton]

So what is the Deal with the CAD, the 02's don't have this. I would think it would be nice not to turn the front axels and drive shaft in 2 wheel drive, seems like less friction, less wear and maybe a slight increase in MPG. but I'm also a big fan of the Manuel locking hubs. I like having the option of putting it in low range without engaging my hubs and having essentially a 2 low. It works great when your breaks go out with a huge load on a steep twisty paved grade. Are there any companies that make a conversion. Thanks for any input.

Sean

 

[Supermod56]

Dunno on the conversion, but you can get a "2 Low" kit from Piers that lets you run in low range without the hubs engaged, great for backing trailers! This is on one that has the CAD, like my 01. Get an exhaust brake for those hills, they work great!

Tom

 

[AKAMAC]

Dynatrac makes kit for the hubs. It's spendy but would make a nice bomb.

I was on the group buy list but couldn't wait for the production time delay.

 

[HChojnacki]

Things to do right off the get go.

I have a 2002 24 valve 6 speed and I love it but I did not know before I bought it that a few things to do to it right off the get go will save you a lot of head akes first install a back up Lp. between the fuel tank and Lp in engine compartment then install a fuel pressure gauge and keep the pressure up above 10 lbs. And keep the fuel filter change their cheep 12$ I change mine every 9 thousand milesif not soonner with oil change. Hopes this helps.