Starting a new job that will require towing a 8000+ lb trailer around this fine city 2-3 days a week. Will put on 25-45k per year.

I was a Ford guy in my last business, but I am considering Dodge for drivetrain durability reasons. (I did not enjoy putting a new tranny in my Excursion.)

Looking at 3rd gen 2500 4X4 QC SB.

What are the differences between ‘03s, ‘04s and ‘05s?

Auto or Manual in town?

What is this NV5600?

Other options to recommend?

Options to avoid?

Build dates to avoid?

I would be happy to poke around the archives for information, if I knew what to search for. Have suggestions?

Thanks gentlemen, this is a great site!

Jay

 

I am certainly not an expert, but I will make a try at some answers.

What are the differences between ‘03s, ‘04s and ‘05s?

The biggest difference is probably that in mid year '04 there was a change to a different engine which had more horsepower and torque and was 50 state compatible for emmisions. The standard output and high output engines were merged into one.

Auto or Manual in town?

This probably has to do with preference. I really enjoy my six speed, but if I was just driving around town I would probably consider an auto. From what I read the newer auto is better.

What is this NV5600?

The New Venture (NV) six speed transmission in my truck.

Other options to recommend?

This all has to do with taste and preference. You might enjoy the bun warmers. I choose the defroster rear window over the opening rear window and would do it again. I am not sure how it works with an auto, but with my six speed I really like the 3.73 rear end. According to your height you may like the adjustable pedels. You will want the block warmer cord for sure.

Others can probably think of options to avoid. I can't think of any. We got about everything and I really like my truck.

j ripley

 

One other thing you might want to consider. You mentioned that you are towing 8000lb+, I tow a 10K trailer with a similar set up to what you have. My truck weighed in at 7300lbs stock with a full tank of gas. Once you add in pin wieght (1200lb - 1500lb), my fat butt, & passengers, I'm over on GVW. You might just want to get the 3500 SRW for the extra margin on GVW, I know I wish I did. I understand the ride unloaded is about the same between the two models.

 

My info might be out of date, so I apologize if that's the case . . .

If you're considering a navigation system, don't order the factory unit. The unit shipped installed from the factory would be the RB4 which many people don't like because it displays only icons and not a real map.

If you want a nav, consider ordering your truck with the base radio for your level of trim package (for my Laramie, it was a downgrade to the CD/Cassette unit) for a credit and use that credit toward the purchase of an RB1 nav unit which does display the map. It is plug and play and you can get them on Ebay.

I haven't pulled the trigger on the nav yet because I'm still tempted to get the Pioneer AVIC unit which will require saving up a few more pennies.

I got the Laramie package which I don't regret. Aftermarket options to consider are Putco wheel to wheel Boss Bars and Line-X.

BTW, that's good advice to consider the 3500. I learned the hard way.

 

also there is a difference in the auto trannys. The 03 had a od off button. The 04 had a tow haul button which only locked out od. and the new 05's have a tow haul button that acts like the ford and chevys. Holds gears longer will let you into od and also downshifts to a certain point. not as aggressive as the ford's but is does help. without tow haul on when you coast down to a stop once the rpm's get to about 1300 it just lets go where when it is on the tc will hold to about 800rpm. just a little advice about shifting. I have an auto and wouldn't trade for a stick in town. Over the road maybe but my knee gets pretty sore in town with a stick!! good luck on your search!!

 

Don't pass up the towing mirror option-- possibly the finest design in the industry! The rear locker is a must have also.

 

I second the vote on the tow mirrors - heated and power adjust.

Drive it 70mph before you buy it. Mine is fine, but others don't like to go 70 I hear.

The 04 HO put out 555ft-lb, while the 04.5 does 600ft-lb. My 04 555 with a 3.73 rear pulls 10K just fine, so I would not sweat either the 555 or a 3.73 if you find one.

 

Thanks for all of the input!!

One more question, how do I tell an 04 from an 04.5? Vin#?

Jay

 

When you open the engine on the drivers side of the valve cover there's a sticker. It should say this engine makes 325 HP at XXXX RPM. I believe it also lists the torque. But anything that's 2004.5 or newer will be 325. I think 2003-2004 were 255 and 305??? I'm sure about the 325 but not the other numbers.

 

I believe that 04.5 on have 4" exhaust also.

 

You can also use the build date on the tag on the door to help determine which engine is in the truck, the change to the 325h.p. 600 lb. was made on jan. 1/04

rob

 

All good advice, I wished I had purchased the 3500 instead of the 2500, not that I houl much but when i do I put it on the bump stops.

The 3500 has overload springs - they're worth it go for it.

Things to get:
1. Tow Mirrors - these things completely eliminate blindspots they're simply AMAZING and VERY WELL ENGINEERED!

2. Laramie package with butt warmers and rear window defrost (a must if you live where it snows).

3. Go for the 2004.5 or 2005 with the cummins 600 (610 for '05) (325 HP and 600 Ft.lb of torque), you'll get a bit worse mileage vs. the 03 and early 04 305 555 motor because they went to a 50 state legal emmissions system with a cat. conv. in 04.5 (no EGR!). Part of the emmissions control is a 3rd injection event at approximately 20 degrees after top dead center - doesn't do a lot of work it's intended to heat the cat - kinda sucks. However I'm very impressed with the perfomance of this vehicle and it gets 17 MPG on highway, 15 to 16 around town. For a 7600 lb vehicle it's friggin awesome!

Good luck

Eric

 

eastmentCTD600, you need to look into airbags for the rear. I have the manual fill bags and they work great when towing. You'll think you have a 4500 unloaded with the bags full, you can let out the air and back to a 2500 ride.