Detroit Series 60 ?

[fastkart32]

I am looking at buying a 1993 Volvo truck with a Detroit 12.7 liter 60 Series engine it is has 660,000 miles on it. The seller states that it will need a new Thermostat put in the engine for heat. I asked if there is an issue with the engine because of the missing or non-operational Themostat. Seller states there is no probelm. Is there anything you can hide by removing the thermostat and not allowing engine to heat up. Seller states he drove the truck 1200 miles like this. What should I be worried about? (Head gaskets, cracked block or head, or something else) and how can I detect any of these issues when I look at the truck?

 

[piper1]

It could be removed to mask on overheat issue or maybe it just failed on the road and it was yanked out to finish the trip. I'd want to look into it thoroughly. ECM download will tell the tale if there were lots of overheats, and if those events have been erased, look at the "Fan on Time" value in the ECM. Numbers over 25-30% can be a sign.

 

[fastkart32]

Thanks the reply, Know one more question how and where can I get a ECM down loader??

 

[piper1]

You need to take it to a dealer or truck shop. Depending on what they have they may come to the truck and do it for you, but you'd likely pay by the hour for the whole trip. Taking it to a shop also gives you a small trip to try the truck out. Might be worth it to get them to check the truck over too!!

 

[dhalltoyo]

If the owner really wants to sell it should not be problem for him to install a thermostat and allow you, or him, to then drive it to a dealer to have the ECM downloaded.

If he resists...I would pass.

 

[Jefferson3000]

Definitely take it to a Detroit service center, and NOT a Volvo delaer in this case. Call and talk to a technician before you even drive it there. The ECM will tell if it has ever overheated. All make sure they can dyno the snot out of it for you.