1990's GM Diesels

[rlb]

I am looking for a truck on a budget. The K2500 in my signature was sold 3 years ago when I bought an ecoboost F150 as a main vehicle. I got tired of driving that in traffic and traded it for an SUV. Now I need another truck. I don't want to spend any more than about $3500. It will be run 2-3x per month on short local trips with no load (around town, moving stuff) and 2-3x per year I might tow a 6-8000lb load some distance.

I know this screams "gas" but some of the diesel trucks from the 90's are showing up on local craigslist, in my budget. I am mechanically inclined and don't mind spending some time and money on whatever I buy.

What am I looking for in a used truck? If there is a thread on how to shop for these things, please point me to it.

Thanks.

 

[ak diesel driver]

Biggest thing to check is blowby.

 

[Husker6.5]

Biggest thing to check is blowby.

Followed by coolant in the oil/over pressurization of the cooling system - two signs of head gasket failure/cracked head(s).

 

[Pruittx2]

Here ya go:

https://www.thetruckstop.us/forum/t...ddition-to-your-stable-of-diesel-rides.13574/