Truck Repair: Dodge Cummins, dodge 2500 cummins, dodge cummins

Question
Hi Cliff,
I have a Dodge 2500 cummins.  I was unable to get my heater to work all winter, not such a big deal in New Orleans.  Looking into it I guessed my Thermostat was broken.  I picked a new thermostat up and started opening things up.  When I got to the thermostat I realised the one they gave me was wrong, I went to another shop and they also tried to give me a wrong sized part.  In order to get it from Dodge I had to prepay and wait for it to arrive so I was looking at replacement parts.

I finally found one the right size and installed it.  I think the one I installed is rated to open at 180 degrees and the Haynes book said the spec. is 188 degrees.  How important is this 8 degree spread?  Should I order an OEM one and make sure it is absolutly right?

Also I have never done a valve acjustment on my Cummins, how difficult is the procedure?  I used to do it on a Volksagen Van.

Thanks in Advance.
Jordan Epstein

Answer
There is a Cummins Distributor in Kenner & Morgan city.Or in any case,ANY part that is on the engine Cummins can get or made it for the engine with exception of like throttle linkage & clutch.Usually they are much cheaper than Dodge too.If it has the 24 valve engine,I hope you got the right one.I can give you a phone numer for Kenner,504-468-3535 for later reference.As far as the vavle adjustment,It is not real hard.Doesnt matter which one you start on.Ill tell you from #1 cyl.Turn engine on TDC #1 cyl,adjust intake valves on cyls 1,2,& 4.Adjust exhaust valves on 1,3,& 5.Trun engine one full revolution & adjust Intake valves on 3,5,& 6.Adjust exhaust on 2,4,& 6.I find turning the engine backwards with the nut on alternator works easier than trying to turn it from the dampner.The specs are 0.010 intake & 0.020 for exhaust either 12 or 24 valve engines,they adjust the same.