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2nd Generation Dodge Reliability / Performance

This is a discussion forum of the 1994 to 2002 2nd Generation Dodge Ram Trucks with 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel of performance and longevity. This includes tricks of getting more MPG, HP/TQ, or just getting to the next milestone.

  1. Started by DezrtRat,

    Before I begin, let me say that I love my Ram. That being said, I have learned a LOT about buying from someone you don't know (-$9,500). First (and I already knew this), the tires were worn out (replaced (-$750) Shortly after buying the truck, I found out the block (53) was cracked (recently replaced) (-$2,000 - got a good deal). Then I noted some trany issues and after wrecking the truck it finally quit (had it rebuilt) (-$850 - another great deal). Truck stalled and wouldn't start. Found bad VP44 (replaced) (-$970 plus -$500 labor). I had starting issues and found out after replacing both batteries (-$300) that the starter was shot (replaced) (-$200). After the wrec…

  2. Started by joecool911,

    I have not found a definitive source for repair manual. Aftermarket cover too many years and motors. I really prefer old cut down tree version rather than online. Is there a good place to get a hard copy manual for my truck?

  3. Started by notlimah,

    Hey guys, so finally had a chance to get a full tank, and drive a good amount of 99% highway driving and trying to get as accurate number as I can. Only thing I'm having an issue with is compensating for my bigger tires and my speedo not being calibrated for it. Anyone know how to do that? Here's my numbers: Trip meter = 425.8 (has 285/70/17s when speedo is set for 265/75/16s so this is biggest concern) Used 22.3 gallons of diesel Hand crunching those numbers still comes out to 19mpgs which isn't terrible but pretty sure it's a little different due to tires/speedo being off. Thanks in advance!

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  4. Started by Mopar1973Man,

    Well here we go. The edge Comp is installed with a TST injection pump plate. Lot of people are wondering how hard it is to install. I hate to say it but it's extremely simple. I think the biggest thing is installing the TST plate. First off...Disconnect you batteries! - Negative cables. I got smart and started with the BD Stealth Plate installation. Which is basically loosen the clamps (2 - 7/16" nuts) on the air tube on the drive side and move it aside. Remember to stick a rag in both holes. Then remove the APPS off the engine (3 - 13mm bolts). Now you got a good view of the top of the VP44 pump. So now you take the supplied tamper-proof torx bit…

  5. Started by backcountrymountains,

    So I'm looking at pics of this piece of plastic and thinking that $70 is a bit high. Has anyone tried to 3d-print their own version of this? I mean, it's just a piece of plastic with 5 holes and a set screw. I was thinking about scanning the stock VP44 cover and printing my own version that I could release for free on Thingiverse or the like so anyone can make their own. Anybody have a spare VP44 cover they can ship me?

  6. Started by 99mystic,

    Where should i get timing cover seals and crank seals from? Want to fix my leaks in the front. Any preferred companies to use?

  7. Started by flagmanruss,

    I swear that I saw a piece about someone who did a custom CAI by relocating the battery, putting the intake forward where the cold air is coming from... anyone see this story?Russ

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  8. Started by Gregturley,

    What are my options on reprogramming my speedometer? I know Smarty s03 and drbiii but what else will do it? The cheaper the better.

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    • 7 replies
    • 1.4k views
  9. Started by 97turbo,

    Stock 97 ( original Kalifornia truck), 100 plate, boost elbow (32psi), pusher intake, 4" turbo back exhaust, 4.10 gears, 285/75/16. Long bed 4x4. ATS stage 2 trans. Looking at the Aurora 3000 turbo to replace the stock unit. Looking for a little more power and lowered EGT when towing . I tow a 6x12 trailer with a 1200 # side by side.Thoughts/ experiances/ suggestions ?

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  10. I am pretty sure I am gonna buy from Ducky fuel injection. But I want to know should I get new injectors or reman? I got what I think to be a stock trans and hy35 turbo. I want either 50 hp or 75hp sticks. Let me know what y'all think! Thanks!

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    • 7 replies
    • 1.7k views
  11. Started by LorenS,

    Last week Threadzy was kind enough to send me his used 8-blade HX35. I should receive it today (I'll get you paid today for the shipping, @Threadzy!). I want to build this turbo for the sense of satisfaction, even if it costs a little more than buying a different one. I don't golf, I don't spend money on hunting, so if I want to spend some money in a silly way, I chalk it up to "hobby". Now, it's an absolute waste of money I'm willing to find the next sucker and pass it along! On to my questions if this isn't a terrible idea... I know it needs a wastegate actuator. Is there a preferred brand/style/vendor? I'm not wanting to spend $200, but am willing to ste…

  12. I am suspicious that I might have a fuel bleed down between lift pump & engine. I've noticed oily spot on the ground where truck was parked this winter. I'm not able to get under the truck myself anymore... as per my signature have AD 150 & big rubber lines.

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  13. Started by Max Tune,

    Does anyone here have or know of an edge comp box that is either damaged or for sale cheap? I need the faceplate with the power and adjuster buttons. My box works but the contact coating on the increase button has flaked off. I tried a product called CaiKote 44 which is a conductive coating for the membrane switch, but getting everything apart and cleaned up has taken the "pop" out of the button. If that makes sense. There are only four solder connections to remove and replace the faceplate so if I can find one that would simplify this repair.

  14. Started by Looner,

    Just got my ultragauge, ordered on a tues night and got it Friday I couldn't believe it came that fast. It's very nice and easy to use with way more gauges then I will ever use, it's nice to watch my avg mpg in the 20's . So far so good!

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  15. I need tuning help with my 2002 Cummins 24valve 6speed 125hp injectors big line kit air dog 100 s464 borg Warner turbo southbend dual disc street/race clutch need quadzilla tune help

  16. Guest
    Started by Guest,

    HOPE THIS ISN'T A DUMB QUESTION BUT I PUT 155 INJECTORS IN MY 00 CUMMINS AND I WAS WONDERING IF ANYONE KNEW A WAY TO TONE DOWN THE SMOKE A BIT. A COUPLE OF BUDDIES HAVE 150'S AND DON'T SEEM TO SMOKE NEAR AS MUCH AS ME.

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  17. Guest 04Mach1
    Started by Guest 04Mach1,

    I doubt this guy has an easy sale of his 2nd gen. https://oppositelock.kinja.com/ridiculous-diesels-most-expensive-2nd-gen-cummins-1831474565

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    • 7 replies
    • 1.5k views
  18. Started by jlwelding,

    Here's what I have, ambient temps have drop pretty good around here. From 108 to 94 today, a pretty good drop, enough to lower egt's? Probably not. I adjusted valves Sunday from 10 - 20 to 8 - 18. Here's the kicker, my egt's have droped overall 150*. My weight is 11k so I am used to seeing high egt's as a norm. I am driving a usuall route when I notice my gauge is lower than normal, I think its stuck so I give it the gas it goes up and I think this is strange. I am thinking this is big news, so I call Mike, he's like yea yea man I like your new found temps but I got to go, can I call you later Kicked to the curb! Just kidding Mike no biggie. I noticed the turbo spools fa…

  19. Started by clong1959,

    got my raptor 95 installed today took about 8 hrs most time spent on geting stock line of fuel tank and disconecting old pump, arms to big to get in there after over an hour of working on it my son came out with his skinner arms and got it off in about 2 minutes, but the pumps working good 18 lbs at idle and 15 lbs excelerating my old pump was goining bad so im a happy camper now. should be in 2nd gen. thread sorry.

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  20. Started by DezrtRat,

    I have a 21' toy hauler that I estimate to weigh about 6k loaded. The question is: is it ok to tow on relatively flat ground with the tranny in OD?