Hello, and Recommendations

[yowmemperor]

Hey all, I've been lurking for a bit and picked up some valueable info, thanks! I purchased the truck in my sig in March and am looking for recommendations. I have no idea whats been done to the truck, it appears stock with exception to a possible shift kit?

What do you recommend I check on the truck? I maintain the fuel filters about every 12k and change the rotella every 4k. I hear something about a tube to a sensor on the passenger side that can clog with soot, and I know about the CPS.

I hear the stock air box is crap and I should replace it and have heard great things about Tymar, (but last I checked the site it was in development...). But thats what I plan on for now.

Do I have a shift kit? The guy I bought it from thinks it might, it struggles finding a gear about 36mph. It shifts well otherwise and when I stomp on it it shifts harder, is that normal or indicitive of a kit? It has a 5th wheel ball so it may have been used for heavy pulling.

When starting the truck it runs a bit rough (not too bad) for about 5 seconds and smooths out even when warm (on diesel or veg), is this normal? Also, when stopping or driving in reverse there is a horrible grinding sound that goes along with the engine rpm, is the block rocking or something to where its touching something, you can really feel it. only happens when warm.

I am shooting for economy and logevity, but want occasional good power to tow so will evetually get into a chip. Right now im on a tight budget would like advise on where to go.

Thanks all!