'85 Diesel idles fine but low power

[DNK70]

I have the opportunity to purchase a 1 owner, '85 Ram50 with 95,000 miles for under $3k. I went to check it out today. Starts and idles fine, but when you hit the pedal there just isn't a lot of power and it will only accelerate very slowly.

If I can get it running right in relatively short order for low dollars then I'll go for it, but momma is tired of the projects and won't be happy with additional yard art.

Looking for quick areas to check and possible problems. I know these engines are expensive to rebuild. If the bottom end is in good shape then I think I can handle the repair relatively quickly. I just don't have the time or money for a major engine overhaul right now.

I would certainly welcome some expert opinions and technical advice.

Thanks in advance.

Dave

[skullzaflare]

Any smoke?
sounds like the turbo charge pipe has come off, or wastegate is stuck open (if its the wastegated version)
its possible someone has played with the fuel screws too
they dont have alot of power to begin with, so its possible its normal power lol

[huff]

also could be the IP neeeds to be adjusted.

You might try this page:
http://dodgeram.org/tech/dsl/more_power/Power_ve.htm


But be careful: I found I could easily get more power, but it would cause me to get exhaust temperatures that were too high. This means an engine that will soon go kaput. It's best if you have an EGT gauge before messing with these adjustments.