Posted by Henry Jacobs on February 26, 1999 at 18:13:43:
In Reply to: Cummins Question posted by Dan on February 26, 1999 at 16:39:25:
Well, you can start with the new electronic fuel injection on the 98+ models vs the old mechanical injection. This makes them just like the Ford/Navistar: bad computer, dead battery, bad sensor, loose wire, rat turds, Y2K, whatever = no engine. It's very hard to kill a mechanically injected diesel engine - you pretty much have to break the pump or fuel lines. My 95 Powerstroke is a smooth powerplant on the road and has decent power off the road, but I could never take it down to Baja for fear of never getting it home. The NGS electronic diagnostic tool alone costs over $1400!
Electronic injection was introduced primarily to address EPA/California "smoke puff/snap idle" concerns through software. From a production engineering standpoint, it's a great approach. From a reliability standpoint, it's a fragile mess.
Did I mention the catalytic converter you'll be getting? A little gift from the EPA - treasure it always.
HLJ