I thinking about geting a dodge cummins 94-98.
what should i look for when i looking for one. miles? mods? auto vs manual transmisson?
Anyone know of any for sale in the area??

Its probably gonna for a dd,

What to look for.
1996-1998.5, manual transmission, non-Komifornia, should have the most power at 215hp. Mileage does not matter, as long as it is not over 350,000, and most of those miles were highway miles. Have the truck compression tested before you buy.
Transmission type is up to you. An auto is easier for stop and go driving, but, a manual can handle more power, and is more fun to drive.
As long as the mods were not crazy, like nitrous it should be fine. A governor kit, #10 plate, exhaust, and mild turbo should be fine. Any more then that, and..... well, you know how the guys in our group are when they get more power.
Check Craigslist, and ZIdaho for a truck.
Good luck

ok thanks man
what are the differences between the 94-96? to the 96-98.5??

I found this one on ksl;

ksl.com - Car Classifieds for Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming

whats good compression numbers for a stock motor??

The 94-96 (manual) had a 165hp or a 180hp injection pump. The later 96-98.5 ( manual) had the 215hp pump. You get better mileage and more power (with add ons) with the 215hp pump. Also the plungers were designed in such a way as to have a better torque curve as you went through the rpm range.

The one you saw on ksl is an automatic, so it would have the lower power hp pump. The auto's always had the lower hp pump.
Compression numbers? That is a question for Muddy. Unless you have the tools, you'll have to take it into a shop anyways to be checked.
With the economy being what it is, there will be more trucks for sale.
Personally, I would look for a quad cab for the extra room.

Have fun looking. Unlike a boat purchase, the happiest days of owning a Cummins is the day you purchase it, and every day you drive it. Unlike a boat, where the happiest days are the day you buy it, and the day you sell it.

Check with 92 D/UNIT he is talking a bout selling his 92 nice truck.

Just remember that the 93 and before used the VE pump. They will last 250,000 before they go out. Also, if you turn up the fuel too much, it will shorten the life of them severely. At least, that is what a Cummins mechanic told me.

Did you ever get a truck?

Also on the 12v's,you need to see if the kdp has been dealt with.(killer dowel pin)

nope not selling mine ill use it for a donor on a future cummins project . its a 92 anyways not a 94-98.
check for worn out front end. take it on the highway and check for the death wobble. also if its been modified check for coolant leaks or seepage around the head gasket area.