Hello from northern CA

[theoldmanW350]

Hello all. My name is Ryan and I'm the third owner of a 1990 W350 5 spd
(named it The Old Man). This is my first diesel. I've been looking for a
1st gen for about two years (but only locally. In my neck of the woods
there are PLENTY of 2nd and 3rd gens. Travelling out of area wasn't an
option). I did a bit of research on the 1st gens here and there, then up
popped my currently owned rig. It all really came out of left field. Anyway I'll post a pic asap but here's the basics:

Stock injection pump (still has "tamper proof" cap on it), 4" turbo back
exhaust, exhaust brake (orig. owner had a 5th wheel hitch at one point),
there are no aftermarket gauges though (red flag? not sure what he was
towing of course), a standard trailer hitch with all proper plug-ins etc
w/ elec. brake control, 40hp injectors, stock lift with stock rims, and it
was repainted the dodge grays. It used to be the dodge blue.

I don't have plans to mod the injection pump. I drive the beast like an
old man and that's ok with me. If mileage can be improved with slight
tweaks I'm all ears from you guys. My factory service manual is in the
mail. I'd like to install an RPM tach and a fluidamper pulley and fix the odometer quit at 151133). I can turn a wrench but I'll admit I'm still learning about these engines. All the mods I read on the forums really get my head spinning (especially regarding guages. Are most gauges needed only for towing?) I'm just thankful for this community of gear heads. My first question for you guys
deals with my oil pressure when started cold. I'll head over to the engine
forum for that. Cheers.

[tampabayBill]

Welcome, pics?

[RCCUMMINS89]

Welcome

[cmann250]

Welcome

[rockbuggy4x4]

Welcome. Got any pics?

[CumminsPower59]

Welcome!

As for gauges, they are always a good idea. You already stated you wanted a tachometer, the other two that are recommended are a boost gauge and a pyrometer. A fuel pressure gauge wouldn't hurt either. Having gauges can help out when trouble shooting issues, and they are good for piece of mind too. Remember, with gauges, you get what you pay for... some guys have had good luck with cheaper units, but Isspro's and AutoMeters are some of the better ones, but a little more spendy. I have a tach, pyro, boost and fuel pressure in my 91, and it cost me about $600 for everything (gauges, single mounting pods, tach pickup, fuel pressure snubber and isolator, and miscellaneous wiring, etc.)

Hope this helps ya

[theoldmanW350]

CumminsPower59,

Thanks. If gauges can help trouble shoot any future problems I'll start saving $$.

And yes, I'll get pics for the others asking. Cheers.