I know that they had Mitsubishi Diesel's before they had the Cummins in the 1989 model year.
So I guess that it could be a Mitsubishi or it could be a Cummins that somebody flipped a number in the model year.
A running Cummins is worth $1500.
First year dodge diesels are 1989 models. My truck was built in July of 1988 but it is still a 1989 model. There were no full size diesel Dodges in 1986, the Mitsubishi diesel junk was in 1978-79. They didn't even have enough power to pull themselves at 70mph. I think the 1989 for $500 is well worth it even if it needs $2000 in work to make it good again.
Best I recall they were 248cid of naturally aspirated diesel. I think they were about 80hp at the crank with no accesories. My neighbor has one and I have driven it a few times. I have farm tractors that are faster!! LOLThe Mitsubishi Diesels were 79-79, eh? Damn, they must have sucked.
Is he sure he dosen't have an 86 Ford with the 6.9L?