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wvabeer's avatar
wvabeer
Explorer
Jan 05, 2017

Used DP what to look for?

I have been looking at some DP's that are old but extremely low miles. I was wondering what to look for besides the cracking of rubber hoses,belts and tires. I guess you can send samples of engine oil and tranny fluid to get tested. I really don't want to pay someone to look at something I can do myself. Oh and to watch for the 53 block.

15 Replies

  • Always inspect a DP with precision. Look around the manifolds really well for any types of cracks and/or repairs. Best probably to get a good mechanic to look anything over.

    Of course, you'll want the best for your budget, the super gem of a coach that the old couple never used and treated like a baby. :)
  • Just stay away from the ISB engine series and you don't have to worry about the 53 block issues.
  • 53 block was a batch of bad block castings on the Cummins B engine.

    Just do a search for "53 block". Plenty of hits.

    Another B issue is "killer dowel pin". Again, just do a search.
  • wvabeer wrote:
    I have been looking at some DP's that are old but extremely low miles. I was wondering what to look for besides the cracking of rubber hoses,belts and tires. I guess you can send samples of engine oil and tranny fluid to get tested. I really don't want to pay someone to look at something I can do myself. Oh and to watch for the 53 block.

    Your budget and the age of what you want, is usually a good starting point.
    I always say, as high end as possible and however old it takes for getting the one that meets your budget. Always pay under low retail, so that you'll have some left over for the unexpected or should I say expected. This should at least keep you from being under water for 6 mons or so and maybe a year if you're lucky and a whole lot better than being in the negative zone, before you even leave the place of purchase.
    Haven't a clue with what you mean about the 53 block???