what are the most common things that go out on a cummins diesel?

 

lift pump is a biggie. but it also depends on what year. the "53" block was prone to some problems. before 99 (I think) you had the KDP (killer Dowel Pin) problem. it is realy just year specefic.

 

Drew,

Do you happen to have any more info on which engines are affected by that KDP? I've been doing a little searching on the internet, worst I've found is any Cummins up to '99. Some places indicate it's only the 12-valve engines. Just curious since I'm getting ready to buy a '98 24-valve.

 

with the '98 I would be more worried about the "53" block. it was a weak casting made in Brazil that was prone to water leaks.

if you want to get a good read up on problems the best place I can think of would be to click the TDR pic in my sig, hit up the forums and check out the second gen section.