1991 378 looking for info

Discussion in 'Heavy Duty Diesel Truck Mechanics Forum' started by 91flattop378, Dec 16, 2021.

  1. 91flattop378

    91flattop378 Bobtail Member

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    Nov 30, 2021
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    I start off by apologizing. Never posted here before and not too up on the forums. I'm mainly looking to get some info on what appears to be a bit of an odd-ball truck I have. 1991 Peterbilt 378
    Full vin: 1XPFDB9X8MN306669
    Engine serial number: 5KJ05173
    I may be all over here with questions so bear with me. First things first, the truck is 8 lug. Anyone else have one that's set up that way? It's got 24.5 all around. I know it's not unheard of, just odd(to me). Was this something that would be spec'd that way for any reason?

    Next thing is the air operated HVAC. I'm sure this has been discussed elsewhere but I was not able to find much on it. If I change the blend slider to anything but Bi-Level, I get an air leak under the dash. Is this a "seek and ye shall find" kinda thing or is it a common issue? The truck currently has no A/C as it appears someone was in the midst of converting from R12 to R134A. If anyone has a diagram for the air line routing for the HVAC or even for the dash in general, that would be greatly appreciated.

    If anyone could give the basic specs on the engine as well that would be great. (I.e hp/mfg date/ etc...) I have zero mechanical history on the truck. What I was told is it has a fresh overhaul but nothing to back it. It's got a Holset turbo on it so obviously someone was playing in there. It runs and drives great and doesn't get bad mileage from what I can tell so far. 1.76 million on the clock.

    That's about all I can think of so far.... any help on any of these questions would be awesome. Thanks in advance.

    - Jared
     
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  3. Oxbow

    Oxbow Road Train Member

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    That engine is rated at 425 HP @ 1800 RPM, and was built on 11/12/1990. The engine went into a Peterbilt.

    Regarding the 8 stud wheels, I remember seeing some but never knew the reasoning behind it. Slightly less expensive or lighter perhaps?

    The HVAC control air leak will require you to find if a hose is leaking, or one of the valves. I believe your "seek and find" approach is probably going to be the best approach.

    Enjoy!

    Edit to Add: The engine came from the factory with a Jake Brake.
     
  4. jamespmack

    jamespmack Road Train Member

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    Knew a few outfits that claimed lighter weight on the 8 lug. Knew a few that claimed anti theft. Why steal them if you can't use them.
     
  5. 07shaker

    07shaker Light Load Member

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    Jan 12, 2013
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    My boss has a 96 379 with 8 lug wheels. They’re 22.5. No clue why they would use them. Recently had one crack but thankfully I was able to find one pretty quickly
     
    Oxbow Thanks this.
  6. Bigpiney

    Bigpiney Bobtail Member

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    Jan 16, 2024
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    So i have been doing some searching and i have this truck now would love some info if you have any like where is came from and etc. it has 1.79 million miles now. I have owned it since Jan. 2024 we use it on the farm in Tennessee
     
    Big Road Skateboard Thanks this.
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