98' 12v head problem

Just picked up a 98' 12v 3500 4x2 with the nv4500. Its got a code "53" block and the head is cracked over #6 by the head bolt on the exhaust side at the water jacket. Wondering if anyone else has had trouble of this kind with engine. Its hauled heavy its whole life, with stock power. 50' enclosed tri-axle goose neck.  
I Support GLOBAL WARMING!

Yeah its a problem with that block, and the 53 series blocks have been known to crack as well.  Some folks have been lucky with them and other haven't, but if what you say is true (and I don't doubt you) and this truck has been run hard you might have some issues with it.

Do a search on here or just Google "Cummins 53 series block".




Kris  
2006 Dodge Ram 2500 QC 5.9L - No Mods Yet
2008 Dodge Ram 3500 QC 6.7L - Titan Fuel Tank Owner

yea but from what i am reading you are saying its the head thats cracked or is it the blocki. the 53 problem from what i have heard and read was the 24v motors and it was  cracking ia little bit above the oil pan  
I burn more diesel and run more miles in a week the most of you people do in a month. ctds that have been used 97 3500, 98.5 3500, 98.5 3500,01 3500, 03 3500. those that are being used 06 3500, 07 3500. and yea these trucks earn their living

I am quite familiar with the "53" block and all its related problems as i also have a 99' 24v. But the problem with that block is that it cracks below the freeze plugs on the exhaust side. My 98' however cracked the head between the injector and the head bolt at #6 on the water jacket. Its leaking water through the head and down the block to the ground. Im going to replace the head but I want to know if anyone else has had this problem with this year 12v as i dont want to put another head on that will do this again. Or if there is a condition that caused it that someone knows about that should be done differently. My problem is with the head not the block. I also plan to haul heavy with this truck as i purchased the trailer along with it.  
I Support GLOBAL WARMING!

i havent heard anything about  heads cracking mite be a fluke .  
I burn more diesel and run more miles in a week the most of you people do in a month. ctds that have been used 97 3500, 98.5 3500, 98.5 3500,01 3500, 03 3500. those that are being used 06 3500, 07 3500. and yea these trucks earn their living

Im hoping it is, What issues did you have with both the 98's you had im sure that they were both similar to mine, do you know if they had 53 blocks?. The 53 block is almost the standard for all the early 24v but info on that block in 12v is very limited. Were they 2 wheel drives? If so did they use idler arms alot?  
I Support GLOBAL WARMING!

never had a block issue. they both where 53's 24v one 2x4 and other 4x4 ball joints where the main issue on the front. as far as i know the 53 seems to be a 24v issue and i think its more of the 99 year model  
I burn more diesel and run more miles in a week the most of you people do in a month. ctds that have been used 97 3500, 98.5 3500, 98.5 3500,01 3500, 03 3500. those that are being used 06 3500, 07 3500. and yea these trucks earn their living

never had a block issue. they both where 53's 24v one 2x4 and other 4x4 ball joints where the main issue on the front. as far as i know the 53 seems to be a 24v issue and i think its more of the 99 year model  
I burn more diesel and run more miles in a week the most of you people do in a month. ctds that have been used 97 3500, 98.5 3500, 98.5 3500,01 3500, 03 3500. those that are being used 06 3500, 07 3500. and yea these trucks earn their living