98 b2500 van

[kohootz]

Looking at a 98 Dodge 2500 conversion van to buy. It havs 80k, V8 don't know what size, with a 4 speed auto overdrive trans. Checked all fluids and they look fine. The transmission fluid apears to have been changed not long ago which makes me some what concerned ( shifts fine).

Does anyone know if this model has any inhereant problems with the drve train? I'm a boat guy who spends most of my time dealing with Cat engines and twin-disc transmissions.

Thanks in advance.
Capt. G

[CDevine]

I've got a 96 B2500 conversion van. 318 ci V8, 4spd automatic.

I bought it new and it has been the worst car purchase I've ever made. I had to have the transmission rebuilt at 67k miles, then again at 150k. I had to have the brake discs replaced (warped) at about 20k miles (no it wasn't covered by warranty. For the first 150k miles (at which time I had it rebuilt) it had some mysterious problem that caused the oil to sludge up at 1500 miles. After 1500 miles, every time I went up a hill and the van downshifted, the pickup screen on the oil pump would block and I'd get zero oil pressure. I had to pull over for about 5 minutes to let the oil flow back down through the pump and unclog the pickup screen. I've replaced the in-tank fuel pump twice, along with so many other parts I can't remember.

After the rebuild it ran well for about 12k miles. Then it started running rough and heating up. I have two problems I've been fighting for over a month. I get error codes showing multiple misfires and camshaft position sensor (CPS) malfunction. I've replaced the CPS, the spark plugs, ignition wires, distributor cap, and rotor. For the heating problem I've replaced the water pump, thermostat, checked cylinder compression (all at 150 psi), and replaced the fan clutch. The upper and lower radiator hoses are clear and the radiator passages look ok. I still have both problems and am without a clue as to how to fix either one.

Stay away from the Dodge Van (318)