Cowboy45

Hello all, this is my first post and I have some questions if you don't mind. I am looking into getting a Dodge (Cummins) and trying to do my homework so I know what to look for. I now have an '02 PS but don't really like it. So now it's time to find out what Dodge has. I've been around the trucks alot but don't know to many details. I know I want a 6 speed 4x4 but what I would like to find out is all the little stuff like what years the power changed, what years the trannys changed, is the 3rd gen running gear better or worse that the 2nd. Just alot of little stuff like that. I don't really know yet if I want a 2nd or 3rd gen. Any education you can throw my way would be very helpfull. Thank you very much.
Any comaprison you have with Ford is welcome also.

Nevada

A few items that you may find helpful.

Until 2003, axles were Dana's. 2003 on are Americans (same as current chev/gmc).

2003 had a mid year change from model 47 to 48 auto transmissions.

Change from mechanical 12 valve to electronic 24 valve (with jerk pump) happened mid year 1998. 2003 the engines changed from jerk pump to common rail.

Early 1st generation trucks had Gertag manuals, someone else can chime in on the year they changed to New Venture. I believe the change from New Venture back to Gertag happened mid year 2005.

The Cummins does not share the Navistar's cavitation issue. No coolant additive is required.

....not a lot of info, but a start.

Good Luck and welcome to the site. There are a lot of nice folks on this board. I'm sure you will be able to find the information you are looking for.

Cowboy45

Nevada, thanks for the reply, any info is good info and much appreciated.

runamuk

Welcome!

My advice is to read the forums, search the forums, and then read the forums again! There are forums on all types of things here for your enjoyment and knowledge. If you do not find it post and someone will point you to it or give you their advice on how to go about it.

Welcome again,

Rick

Hounddog

Once again.The G56 6 speed IS NOT A GETRAG! Its a in house Damiler trans.

hotdram

I believe the G56 has had some issues because of the dual mass flywheel. Some 05's have the NV5600 and some have the G56.
Searching here might find a few things about what folks like/dislike about the G56.

~Rob

Big Ed

You didn't state if you are buying new or used. Personally, after having a 2nd and 3rd gen truck I can tell you with no reservations that you want a 3rd gen truck (2003 and newer). If you looking for a six speed the options are pretty simple.

In 2003 there were three versions of the Cummins. First is the 305hp/555tq HO mated to the NV5600 6 speed trans. Unfortunetly, due to emission regulations this engine could not be had in Cali, Mass, New York, Vermont, Maine, and one other state I can't recall.

The second version is the 250hp/460tq. This was the engine used in the five emission states I mentioned above EXCEPT California. I'm almost positive this engine was only available with the NV4500 5 speed but don't hold me to it.

The third version is the 235hp/460tq engine. This was a California exclusive engine to meet Cali's emission standards. I'm pretty sure it too was only mated to the five speed tranny.

In 2004.5 the 325/600 was introduced. It was 50 state legal and the only manual trans option was the NV5600 six speed. At this point, I think all standard output engine production ceased and the 325/600 was the only available diesel option.

In 2005 the torque was upped 10lbs to 325/610, which is still the current rating today. Mid production 2005 the NV5600 was phased out and the G56 six speed was introduced. This new tranny (which is NOT a Getrag) has a dual mass flywheel and aluminum case vs. the NV5600's traditional flywheel and iron case. The NV5600 would be my choice because of it's proven track record as a bombproof trans.

To discern what engine is in a particular truck you will need to pop the hood and check the engine data plate/sticker to see what the HP rating is for the engine.

IMHO, the best all around combo is a 305/555 with the NV5600. When compared to the 600/610 the 305/555 appears to get better fuel mileage, has no catalytic converter, and has fewer injector issues (not that the 600/610 are problematic to injector issues).

Hope this helps you decide.

Dan_K

I traded an 01 PSD in on my 05 CTD. The motor and chassis on this 05 are by far superior to the old PSD, however, the body/paint on this 05 is thin and weak. If you plan on doing any work out of the truck, be prepared for dents and scratches.
DK

Hoss

I agree 100%. If you want a 3rd Gen I would look into getting a used 2003/2004 model with the above combination. That's what I have and I love it.

If you want a 2nd Gen then I would probably look at getting a 2002 model.

moterhead

Big Ed, the 305/555 was also available with the automatic trans. It's what was called the "HO" in late '03 and early '04 MY. Job 1, Jan, 04 (called the '04.5 mY)was the intro of the 325/600 which was a 50 state emission compliant motor. It was not called an HO. That designation hasn't been used since.

Big Ed

Wayne, I didn't bother discussing the 47re and 48re because his original post stated he wanted a six shooter. In addition, I'm aware of what you said regarding the autos, especially considering I drive an '04 305/48re combo. However, It's good to throw the automatic trans info out on the table in case he decides to go that route.

Ed

Cowboy45

I will be buying used. I need to find a truck in the same price range as what I can sell my Ford for, hopefully around 24k. I thought I will probably have to stick around the 01 to 03 year range.

kully560

I have one of the first 2003 it is a 250 hp 460 ft/#, auto tranny , and dana front and rear ,not all 2003 have the american front /rear .p/s hounddog they relocated my fin sensor and a/c is fixed. no more freeze ups.kully

Big Ed

Sorry fella, if you have a 3rd gen Ram then you have American Axles front and rear. Since you state that your truck is an early 03' with the 250/460 engine you most likely have the 47re auto transmission and smaller 10.5" rear axle.