Found a 1995 5.9 cummins with 473,000K not miles, should I pass on it?. I know these motors run forever (properly maintained) but this seems high. If I were to buy this truck what items should I address?. It recently got new injectors, lift pump and head gasket. I was planning on fixing the killer dowel pin, add head studs and leave it stock. Thanks for the input.

have you heard it run? drove it? if it runs good,the price is right,and there is enuff left of the truck around it to keep driving id get it. ;)

No I havent heard it run yet, just thinking about it mostly. I guess having a look wouldn't hurt.

With that many miles on it, I would say the body/chassis is shot and in need of some serious attn.
These motors will go 500K with proper maint to me the lower end of block will need some attn other than the dowel pin being that close to its design life expectancy, And if its been on a farm think about all the idling on top of that.

I know my luck I wouldnt chance it unless the owner just is in the giving mood.

The truck is pushing 300K miles (I think) and 14 years - engine is probably fine but the chassis/body/interior is probably hammered and in need of some serious work.

Brian

The price would be my main concern, if it's cheap enough I'd go for it.

If it got a new gasket, it should have got new head bolts. Studs arent needed unless you start getting into a bigger turbo. Engine wise besides the KDP you should be fine, its the steering and front suspension Id worry about, trackbar, balljoints, control arms bushings, ect.

I'd pass, but Cummins trucks are easyish to find here w/half the miles on 'em.

I went back to my old shop where all we did was diesel performance and repair (mostly cummins) and my old boss said to pass on it. I trust him so i'll keep looking. Yes the body is below average and the front end is needing repairs. My hunt continues. Thanks everyone!