Hey guys! I got lucky last fall and was able to trade a 2000 jeep grand Cherokee for a '97 12v cummins. It has a 4" exhaust with an after market muffler but other than that is stock. I am new to mechanics but am eager to learn! I'd like to start tuning it up on the cheap for now and later when the fundage is better, start putting more money into the engine. Early warning: I WILL ask very dumb, simple questions. Thanks for the help in advance!!!

Cora

 

No question is dumb.
If I can recommend, make the first thing you do is the killer dowel pin fix.

 

I've heard a little about this???

 

Basically, there is a pin that keeps the timing cover in place. And sometimes the pin can back out after time. It can do 1 of three things.
1) back out and fall into the oil pan and nothing happens.
2)the pin backs out and gets caught on something that can crack the timing case.
3) the pin backs out and falls into the gears for the camshaft, fuel pump for example and that will start a chain reaction basically gearnading the motor.Pistons hitting the head,ect. ect.
Then the motor will be beyond the point of repair.

This is one mod a lot of people here will stress new owners of 12valves to do first.

.You can also go to the search bar and type in killer dowel pin to get moe info on this

 

 

Also a great part for 2nd gen's like ours, is a 4,000 rpm governer srping kit. By installing these, you increase top speed, increase shifting integers for manuals (don't have to shift as much), output capablilties and more coal if other mods are in place. Also, an adjustable fuel plate from Dynomite diesel is cheap and great. It can be adjusted to add 50-125 horsepower, by your choice. And if you want to get a little experience with turbos, then buy a batmowheel inducer

 

Welcome to the site.

Tony