I've been in the market for my first diesel and am set on buying a 2nd gen cummins. I preferred a '97 12v 4x4, but here in AZ they are either way out of my price range or beat to hell. I came across what seems to be a clean 2000 24v for $9700 and was wanting everyone's personal opinions on this truck. The seller put down "We are selling our grandfathers Dodge Ram 2500 24v Cummins RWD Laramie, Fully loaded, ice cold a/c, has no issues and lots of upgrades. 24 valve with a five speed with a gear vendor overdrive, Four-inch banks exhaust, SB air intake, upgraded bigger turbo, 75 HP dynamic injectors, edge advanced 125 HP chip, fast fuel pump, four brand-new Michelin tires, new South Bend performance clutch, rebuilt transmission, Aluminum radiator, has a fifth wheel hitch, been in the family since new. Selling because of medical issues". I would have to call to see how many miles are on the truck as well. I've done some homework and understand that these 2nd gen 24v trucks have some issues such as the VP44, 53 block, 5th gear nut, etc. The price is great compared to whats out there and I love that it seems to be a grandpa truck from what the seller says (even though the amount of mods seems odd for a grandpa). Would this truck be recommended? Or would you all pass and wait for a 12v similar in price, which could take a while.

 

grandpas old truck sounds kinda hopped up to me...

 

Sounds like he had it set up for hauling a camper around. It certainly looks clean and well preserved. The VP44 issues were caused by the weak factory lift pump, an issue that's already been addressed on that truck with the installation of the FASS lift pump. If the transmission has already been rebuilt, there's a good chance the 5th gear nut issue has been taken care of as well. As for the "53" block issue, if the truck has 150k miles or more, I wouldn't even worry about it. There are lots of guys with high mileage 53 blocks running around. If they do break, it seems to happen early in the motors life or with making WAY to much power. It's a well appointed rig with lots of desirable aftermarket options already installed, the 2wd is helping to keep the price low.

It comes down to what you want though, if you really want a 12V then you should probably keep looking. If you settle on something now, you may be kicking yourself for it later on.