I am looking at a 98.5 with 224,000 miles. Any suggestions on what to look for? It runs good, starts easy at 20 degrees, doesn't smoke, even under heavy acceleration.

 

First thing to look for is the "53" casting number on the block below the vacuum & power steering pumps, just above the oil pan.

 

I wouldn't even worry about the 53 myelf unless your lookin at makin it a big HP truck. That's just personal opinion though.

Check fuel pressure while driving to make sure it never drops below 5-6psi no matter what.

If it's an auto tranny make sure it's still tight.

Check fo signs of excessive blowby on the front of the motor.

Have it checked for codes.

Anything I can think of after that is just a part of maintenance.

 

I know enough 53 blocks that have cracked with just a comp and a small set of sticks so becareful with it.

 

Bigger thing to check first is KDP (Killer Dowel Pin)!

 

KDP and 53 are both a crap shoot. Could bite you at anytime, or never.

KNOWING about it, you can negotiate a good price or choose to look elsewhere.

 

on the KDP, can I fix that at my house? And I am not looking for high hp right now, just a more fuel efficient vehicle than my 1985 Chevy 454. When the hp comes aruond, i want a CR engine. And it has a 5 speed, a little blow by, as I got to see it b efore it was cleaned. Can I just look at the crankcase vent to check that? Or is that not a good indicator? It works on my big Cat, it starts to really smoke out that thing when the rings start to go. Oh, and the manifold to head gasket is burned out on number 5 cylinder

 

If the KDP or the the rings are already gone you won't miss the blowby, oil would be everywhere. Checking and fixing the KDP before it goes bad is a simple thing that takes a few wrenhces and a new seal kit that run's abut $17.

 

Well, I got the pickup. Went to the dealer today and negotiated with him. It has a 53 block, not too concerned (told him I was). We agreed on a price ($6750), went in to do the paperwork, and he wrote $4750 on paperwork!! He looked it over (3) times, and finally said, "Sign here, and it is yours." So I did, and wrote out the check, asked if ti was correct, was told it was, anc he put a tag on it and I LEFT FAST!!! Is that a good deal or what? I did tell him it was wrong the first time, as he put $3750 on it, and he says, Thanks I'll change it. So I didn't feel too bad if he couldn't get it right after that. Am I bad?

 

LOL No Your LUCKY !!!

Good One , Where this place at and whos the Sells man ...