I'm considering buying a Dodge D50 (mitsu mighty max) with the Mitsu 4D55T motor. I know this truck in general can last forever with some moderate care, but I still have some reservations about this engine.

I am graciously seeking some informed input about this engine's over-all reliability and durability. How is it as a daily driver? How does it cope with converting to veggie oil? Are there any, and if so what, common problems that make these infamous (such as the Toyota Supra 7mgte being known for blowing head gaskets)? Is the block and head exactly the same as the petrol version or is it more heavy duty?

I've searched around on here and mostly looks like the worst is people not finding parts easily. Which I'm concerned with since this is a very uncommon motor in the USA. It's not like a stroll to the local pick-yer-part will likely give me what I need.

There's not many small diesels to choose from over here. I didn't even know about this one til a few days ago. I want something that's cheap for a daily driver that I can run on waste veggie oil if I want. I would probably plan to add an intercooler and bigger exhaust to add a little power and fuel efficiency if I get one. Sorry to be a bit winded but I thank in advance for any advice. Cheers.

if the mighty max is in good running condition now...it shouldn't need much, just a timing belt and usual routine maintenance. parts are not hard to come by if you are willing to wait by the mailbox...you can get anything overseas.

I just converted my D-50 pickup to a 4d55, and have been driving it daily for about a month or two, put about 1,000 miles on it. So far, no complaints. Mine at least fires right up. Pretty good performance for a small diesel, and great if you get into the boost. Cruises around 70 with no problems, and has been getting me somewhere around 28 mpg ( mine is 4wd and I think I still have some tuning to figure out). As far as I'm aware, they aren't notorious for any serious problems. Hope that helps.

I did have problems finding parts, but I found Auto Zone seems to be pretty good at finding them. Schucks was worthless, and NAPA was good for glow plugs.

My 4D55 is running real good after my rebuild, but I don't think I honed the cylinders enough. I still have some smoke after 1500 miles. Might take a little longer to break in, I guess <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" />

I still have some wiring issues to work through, and the truck is still kind of rough, but it does run real nice, and I get close to 30MPG with mixed driving. Not bad for a truck almost 25 years old and over 265,000 miles!