So I have a 2001 Dodge 3500 and it seems the VP44 is going out. I haven't taken it to a mechanic because I can't seem to find a good one. They all seem to think that since I'm a woman I'm stupid and that they can take advantage of me. I can tell you that it starts great when it's cold and very slow when it's hot. I scanned it and it throws no codes. If I put water on the injection pump and cool it down it starts right up. So I think it pretty much has to be VP44, right? Please tell me if I'm wrong.

If I'm right, I would like input on what to put in it. Everything that has been replaced in that truck has been replaced with better so it has Banks high performance turbo and intake, Air Dog lift pump, BD Diesel tranny & torque convertor, the list goes on. I would like to put something that will turn it up a little bit more in it.

I am also thinking about replacing it myself. I do all kinds of stuff to my F550 (which has had all kinds of things go wrong so I'm very comfortable under that hood) so I figure why not. I'm not as comfortable with the Dodge because she hasn't caused much trouble in the two years I've had her but youtube videos are very helpful in my experience. Does anyone know of a particularly good video or written step by step on replacement of VP44?

Thanks guys,
Darla

 

I have heard that the Hotrod'ed pumps are not better than stock. That includes longevity. I would get you a OEM new from a reputable dealer online or physical. Of all the searching I have done about these motors for the past few months. I havent seen anyone having the same problem you are having.

As for replacement, I think (to sum it up) make sure your key is TDC and match the old VP with the new VP, bolts then bleed

 

Really? I'm surprised you say you haven't seen anyone having the problem I'm having...I read a good article on how to diagnose VP44 by Blue Chip Diesel (if you haven't seen this article I can send it to you...it's very well written) that I found on here and have read a bunch of other stuff...that's how I came up with this. As far as a replacement pump goes, I have heard that there is at least one aftermarket manufacturer that came up with a far better design than the Bosch originally put in the truck. I'm working on figuring out what.