2nd Gen 5.9 Cummins engine problem

[19Slick69]

Never owned a diesel Ram. I currently own a 5.9l gas 2500 5spd. So considering a move to a 2001-2002 2500 Ram diesel....mainly for towing. I seem to remember there was/is an issue with the 5.9 Cummins engine....something about a pin that would fallout or lockup in the timing cover area? I can't find the thread for the issue....anyone with info on what the issue is? Thanks for any info offered.

 

[16 Cummins 4x4]

It is known as KDP or the Killer Dowel Pin.

https://www.motortrend.com/how-to/what-is-killer-dowel-pin/#google_vignette

 

[Badger 13]

The possible dowel pin issue was only on the 12 valve engines, not the 24 valve. I believe that 2001 and later were the 24 valve.

 

[tjfdesmo]

"53 Blocks" were a 24 Valve thing.

 

[16 Cummins 4x4]

98.5 - 2002 RAM 2500 and 3500 are the years for the 24V Cummins - VP44 injection pumps.