Picking a 5.9 Cummins Engine

            Generally, the older trucks get the older engines and the newer trucks get the newer engines; however, there are several newer trucks with older transplants and plenty of older trucks with newer engines. Some combinations are more involved than others, however, in the end it is simply a matter of preference. The engines are universal as far as transmission mounting, if a tranny fits one engine, it will fit another (providing the proper adapter plate is used). For states with emissions concerns, the general rule is to go with an engine of the same year as, or newer than, the implant truck.

            Some preferences to consider are fuel economy, horse power and torque, weather the engine is manually or electronically controlled, noise level, ease of installation, and purchase price.

The 12 Valve  

The 89-93 engines are readily available, inexpensive, get the best fuel economy, and have decent torque.  They utilize the Bosch VE rotary pump which can be adjusted to achieve a little more horse power (see link on our website).  89-91½  are non-intercooled. 91½ and newer are all intercooled.

The 94-98 engines offer decent power and torque, as well as, great fuel economy. They have the Bosch P7100 inline manual fuel pump which produces 160-215HP stock.  With this pump, one can easily add 15-95hp by installing a simple fuel plate.  There are also several other horse power upgrades that can be done to these engines with out totally sacrificing fuel economy or reliability. 

*Both the rotary Bosche VE and the inline P7100 are very reliable.

ALL 12 valve engines are manual pump engines and do NOT require any electronics from the truck to run.  The simplicity of the 12 valve engine makes it the easiest to install and maintain. 

The 24 Valve

The 98.5-02 24valve engines are computer controlled and provide ample horsepower.  The wiring schematic is available to wire this engine for the Ford truck.  NONE of the Dodge PCM is required to utilize this engine. 
 

The Common Rail

The 2003-2005 24valve engines are excellent engines.  Call for availability.

While different years vary in regard to these preferences, all of the engines are known for their incredible reliability.  Your particular preference will probably be determined most by answering the question of “What do you do with your truck?”  If it’s an every day driver and fuel economy is your priority, then the early 12V (89-93) might be right for you.  If you need pretty good power but also need to maintain decent fuel economy, then the 94-98.5 12V would be your best bet.  If you are looking for lots of power stock and a newer, all electronic engine, then you will want the 2003 or newer Cummins.