I want to get a Cummins. Either a 24 valve or a common rail, would prefer a common rail 04.5-05. I have no need for the truck just want it really bad! I'm just curious what the cost for a daily driver cummins and if me wanting the truck is good enough reason to get it.

 

I have owned two 24v: a 2001 and a 2004.5 and liked them both. But be aware that from 1998.5 through 2003 I believe all used the problematic vp44 injector pump and had poor lift pumps, but after market lift pumps are available that seem to cure that. However many early ie 1998.5-2001s also had the dreaded ''53'' blocks (mine did). While most ''53s'' didn't crack some did requiring a new block or a complete engine replacement. The location of the number is just above the pan, driver's side at the front corner. Many cracked under warranty and were replaced but I would avoid one myself, although mine had 104k with no crack or vp44 problems. Common rail motors can have injector problems and cost more for those injectors.

 

to be honest, id recommend the 12v, but i love my 12v, my dad has a 24v and my bro inlaw has a commonrail, i dont like either of them, i only like my 12v, easier to work on, easier to get power out of, and you dont have to smog in california, hahaha, stupid cali laws, sorry yall but i stick to my 12v, :-) good luck on the buy, and just because you want one, if you have the money, go for it i guess, if i had a couple million id go buy me a bugatti, just to say i have one, but do what you gotta do.

 

I'm I don't have a lot of money but I'm not broke. The only reason I don't want wants 12 valve is because the base power is so weak I mean I don't want a lot of power but I want around 300+ hp but I don't want to spend a lot of money getting the truck up there. That's one reason I want a common rail, that and I love how the new dodges look, the older dodges look awesome but the common rail 5.9s look sweet!

 

I'm agreeing with what you are looking for, as it was my way of thought a year ago... on that note, if you don't work a diesel, you make problems for yourself.

My 06 has been a great truck so far. Some small issues, a couple recalls, but that's about it. I got warranty on it for another 30,000kms (extended) but I think if you do your oilchanges, and just look after it... it'll treat you well.

 

Getting 300hp/800 lb-ft out of a 12-valve is cheap and easy - a good wrench who knows what they're doing can have it done in under an hour in the parking lot of your local McD's.

 

I just started a job for a few months that does nothing but diesels and a few (very few) gas vehicles. I've been in the mechanics world for only 5 years I'm ok at it but I have a lot to learn still. Does this change whether I should get a Cummins or not? And the job I was just talking about specializes and worships Cummins!

 

You know, I just went through this recently. Last night I purchased my first cummins diesel, 96 12v. You know if you want it you gotta do it. Ive wanted one for so long, and things have never felt so right behind the wheel I know it sounds wierd but trust me if you have the cash do it

 

Sorry for stealing the thread, but I'm in the same boat. I have a 1500 and I really want a cummins. I don't need one for any reason besides wanting it. Just wondering if anyone has ever heard or fast lane auto in Cortland, NY? They specialize in '98 - '02 24v cummins manual trucks.
http://www.nydiesels.com/Inventory

 

Rumblebee - have you thought about picking up an ugly/damaged cummins and doing a swap into your truck? There are no factory standard cab short bed diesels, and only a handful of swaps running around. Buy it and rebuild the engine, trans, differentials, etc. etc. etc.