In search of a better truck for towing the M6060 and folding cutter.

[McMXi]

The analysis paralysis that comes from Googling the Cummins 5.9L engine .....

Top 10 5.9L Cummins Problems | Big Bear Engine Company

Written By, Mike McGlothlin We work with many renditions of the 5.9L Cummins here at Big Bear Engine Company. And while we believe it’s one of the best light to medium-duty diesels ever produced, there is no denying that—like any engine—it has its share of shortcomings. In fact, a few of its...

www.4btengines.com

 

[Botamon]

The analysis paralysis that comes from Googling the Cummins 5.9L engine .....

Well, its good to know what the weak points are - and to get ahead of those weak points if possible. Personally, I prefer to read about those guys who have over 400,000 miles on their trucks and the engine is still running fine. Just because I'm a "glass is half full" kind of guy, not "glass is half empty".

 

[jyoutz]

The analysis paralysis that comes from Googling the Cummins 5.9L engine .....

Top 10 5.9L Cummins Problems | Big Bear Engine Company

Written By, Mike McGlothlin We work with many renditions of the 5.9L Cummins here at Big Bear Engine Company. And while we believe it’s one of the best light to medium-duty diesels ever produced, there is no denying that—like any engine—it has its share of shortcomings. In fact, a few of its...

www.4btengines.com

Most of the lift pump/injector issues occurred with the 24 valve 5.9 that was used prior to the 2003 common rail upgrade. I haven’t, nor have I heard of anyone who has experienced problems with the common rail 5.9. Not that they don’t have problems occasionally, but systemic problems in common seem to be rare. The only problem I have had with my 2007 was right after I first bought it in 2009. An injector failed; turns out that there was contamination in the fuel tank and system. After the system was flushed and the injector was replaced, I’ve had no repairs since, just periodic maintenance. In fact the truck itself has had very few repair issues, mainly just routine brake replacement. I would not shy from a vehicle with the common rail 5.9. And you will be very happy that the maintenance can all be completed in 45 minutes at home. The other nice thing about the Cummins engine is you can buy any needed parts at the Cummins shop for cheaper than they sell the Mopar version at the Dodge/Ram dealership. I buy all my filters and even fluids at our local Rocky Mountain Cummins shop.

 

[McMXi]

Well, its good to know what the weak points are - and to get ahead of those weak points if possible. Personally, I prefer to read about those guys who have over 400,000 miles on their trucks and the engine is still running fine. Just because I'm a "glass is half full" kind of guy, not "glass is half empty".

The only thing that really bothers me about that list is the Brazilian made block but I can get verification as to whether there's a 53 on the casting. Also, the work trucks have detuned engines right, and the article addresses engines that went into Dodge trucks so not sure if it's an apples to apples thing.

My friend has all of the necessary information to stop by the dealership and check out the truck so I'm waiting on him to get out there before I make a decision.

 

[Botamon]

The other nice thing about the Cummins engine is you can buy any needed parts at the Cummins shop for cheaper than they sell the Mopar version at the Dodge/Ram dealership. I buy all my filters and even fluids at our local Rocky Mountain Cummins shop.

No Cummins shop anywhere near me so I buy my Fleetguard (Cummins recommended) filters on-line from Geno's Garage. However, the local Walmart carries the MoPar filters for the Cummins for an excellent price.

 

[jyoutz]

No Cummins shop anywhere near me so I buy my Fleetguard (Cummins recommended) filters on-line from Geno's Garage. However, the local Walmart carries the MoPar filters for the Cummins for an excellent price.

Winnemucca is on the interstate. No truck shops there?

 

[jyoutz]

The analysis paralysis that comes from Googling the Cummins 5.9L engine .....

Top 10 5.9L Cummins Problems | Big Bear Engine Company

Written By, Mike McGlothlin We work with many renditions of the 5.9L Cummins here at Big Bear Engine Company. And while we believe it’s one of the best light to medium-duty diesels ever produced, there is no denying that—like any engine—it has its share of shortcomings. In fact, a few of its...

www.4btengines.com

I read through this article more closely, and as I thought, these are all related to the 24 valve version of the engine that was manufactured prior to the 2003 common rail version. I had one of those in a 1999 truck and was aware of those issues, but never experienced them. The common rail version is much improved.

 

[Botamon]

Winnemucca is on the interstate. No truck shops there?

Nope, not anymore. There's a trucking company (runs a fleet of big flatbeds, hauling mostly for the mines) that advertises doing "minor engine repairs" but that's it.