I bought a 1996 SD today. Blue on tan with a little rust. 142K on the clock. This thing has some issues for sure. I am gonna alot of help, so I hope you guys will bear with me.
I have Check Engine, SRS and ABS lights on. I am gonna try to get the codes read tomorrow and I will share them with you then.
Most noticeable problem is that it sometimes stutters and dies until it warms up. Head gasket maybe? If so, so be it. I am committed to saving this poor thing.
Help me out with this: If the U-joint has zerks, it has been replaced. Is that right?
I have a limited budget, so I want to ask your opinion: Should I do the 60K service first, or attack the codes?
Thanks,
Bob

 

All DI driveshafts are greaseable from the factory.
I would start with a tune up and throttle body cleaning.
Get the codes read and then we can go from there.

 

How involved a tune-up? Plugs and wires? Filters? Or do mean the whole shibang (sp?)?

 

Plugs and wires. Magnecore 8mm wires ONLY. Plugs are up for debate, I (as well as many others here) have been using Bosch Platinum +4s and I'm quite satisfied with them.

 

www.apexperformance.net for the plug wires.
I prefer Iridium plugs but you can use whatever you want.
Change all the fluids, do not do a engine flush, and just go from there.
Just do things as money and time permit starting with the plugs and wires.