I'm considering buying what looks like a really clean Freightliner that has about 260,000 miles on it. I will be using it for some long cross country runs, hauling vintage racing motorcycles to various race venues around the country.

In order to achieve maximum reliability and insure that I won't break down in the middle of nowhere, my thought was that I'd have the motor rebuilt right away. Even though it seems to run just fine, I think it makes sense to do it even if only for my peace of mind.

I found a site selling reman's for about $6,000, but was thinking that a good local mechanic could do the rebuild at a better price. My questions are:

1: Does it pay to use premium parts in the rebuild? I'd like to hear some suggestions about what the best way to do this is. I have experience with gas motors, and am wondering if there are things that can be done to these diesels such as balanced assembles, porting & polishing the exhaust, using performance exhaust components, etc.. etc.. that can give me a smoother & longer lasting result. Are there any really good modern upgrades available to a 2001 motor that are worthwhile spending extra bucks on?

2: If properly maintained, what's the normal expected service life of these motors? Someone told me that I was crazy to rebuild it if it's running well. Does anyone know what the average amount of miles is that people put on these motors before they need a complete rebuild?

3: What's the ideal cruising speed (rpm's) for economical fuel consumption and long life? What is their normal rev range? I assume they're red-lined at about 2,300 RPM. Is that correct?

Any advice, suggestions, warnings etc., from experienced users / mechanics will be most appreciated.

Thank you!

atmhc

 

If it wasnt heavily abused it should be good for 500k+. It would be a total waste of money to rebuild it. Unless your goal is over 800hp there is no need to do any extreme mods to it like balancing, porting, etc. A bigger exhaust and intake will help. The only concern I would have is the vp44 injection pump,those aren't the best around to put it mildly. It should redline around 2800rpm, sweet spot is 1800-2000 rpm.

 

@white93

Thanks for your thoughts!

What components in the truck, other than the block & head etc, would you suggest I consider replacing at 260,000 miles?

Is there an upgrade available for the vp44 injection pump?

Thanks again;

atmhc

 

If it was my truck I going to drive cross country I would replace the following-
Head gasket. Because of the age factor.

Turbo. Its cheap insurance, $500 vs. 6k engine if it were to come apart.

Belts, hoses, etc.

As for the injection pump, I don't think its as big as a problem on the bigger trucks as it is on the pickups but I would replace it anyway. Here's a couple articles on the pump problem. I'm not trying to advertise for these places im just using the vp44 info. 98.5-02 CUMMINS ISB | Black Smokin' by Diesel System Services

Blue Chip Diesel Performance Specialists