im looking at purchasing a dodge ram 2500 with the cummins, i found a 99 with a five speed, what are the advantages/ disadvantages of the newer motor, the 24 valve. i know the 12 valves cant be killed, are the 24's the same?

 

The biggest thing I know is 12v are easy power, but 24v is prob better milage. My opinion is I'll prob stick with 02 and older just cause I like them and feel I can trust them little better. I've never had trouble with my 01 and my uncles who both own 03 chipped them and had injectors go out.

 

Just get rid off the stock lift pump and you got a very reliable truck.

 

Im confused though how it is easier to get more power out of a 12 valve when you can add a programmer to a 24 valve, all 12 valve cummins are mechanial, arent they?

 

Go with a 12 Valve if you can find one in good condition with less than 200,000 miles on it. I like the early 1998 Quad Cab, because they have the rear doors, and the 1997 and earlier do not. BUT the early 1998's are hard to find.

With the 12 Valve engine, you will a lot less maintaince problems over the long run. From what I see on this and other forums, if you are going to go for the 24 Valve engined truck, try to stick to 2004.5 and up.

Ralph

 

Ralph, you're correct.. If you're going to buy a second gen truck, try to find a 12 valve. The 12 valve gets the best mileage of the bunch, and is very cheaply modded with just a governer spring kit, and a set of injectors.. I've known people getting over 500 rwhp with just these mods, and tightening down the stock head bolts. Granted, the EGT's would be screaming hot.. Other than that, I would also say 04.5 and up. These trucks have a great stock pump that can support just over 600rwhp stock.. Another large advantage of the common rail is the noise level. Yet another plus, is the CR has a much better head gasket. Just tighten the head bolts down, or install studs and you're good for lots of boost.. I love the rumble of my 12 valve, though I don't think the neighbors do when I start it in the morning.. If you plan on racing, the auto is a much better choice..