Well, I chose the Cummins option to replace the block and got the truck back on Wednesday. The truck is still too valuable to just let it go. My local Cummins rep. charged me about $5000 to do the job, they ate about $2400 in parts. While it is way more than what I wanted to spend because Chrysler refused to discuss the issue and honor their warranty, I know it was done right. One thing I can say about Cummins that I can't say about Dodge is that they are honorable. The local rep provided me with pictures and additional information to help me with my lawsuit, in addition to the stuff I already got.
Jeff, Cummins will initially give you a ballpark price for the entire job. The local rep needs to get approval to do the work from their regional rep. Your $7500 is about right as the parts alone are priced at $2400. If you want them to replace the water pump, oil pump andany other part, that cost is on you. I would never considerhaving the Dodge dealer work on this engine ever again, and so far am completely satisfied with Cummins and how theyhandled this issue.
I just found a class action lawsuit that was filed in Missouri in either December of 2007 or January 2008against Chrysler. It is regarding Chryslers abandonment of the Cummins Diesel Warranty. You can find it at
www.courthousenews.com. Do a search under chrysler you will find it in a 12-06-2007 issue.
It is just in the beginning stages, and is assigned to go in front of a federal court judge in June or July where it may or may not float. I haven't decided if I will join the suit yet or file my own claim locally.
RE: dreaded 53 block
1998.5 Ram Cummins 24 valve turbo diesel
