Ive been reading and searching and so far there are that many issues. The lift pump some guys say to have the in-tank conversion. I preffer the nv5600 over the g56 which is why im looking at the 03's and 04's when is the cut off for the nv5600. A couple of my buddys thata re dodge techs said the biggest issues they ran into were heads dropping the valves in early 03's, a few lift pumps and CP3s as well as driveline vibrations

any ball joint or bearing issues on the front end. brake issues? eletronic issues, AC issues ... everybody says the ac sucks.

Looking at 4dr long beds 4x4.

Found a couple, of 03s with 50k-60k miles for 23k-26k good shape with all the bells and whistles.

I really havent seen too many threads complaining about much. one guy dispised his NV5600 ordeal with dodge. No real T-ccase issues. something about the 04 turbo is a little better than the 03's because of the exhaust housing is 3.5" vs 4" on the outlet. and tid bits about 03's getting .5 mpg more than the 04s.

What about trac bars, if i buy one at 50k miles am i going to be looking at the same issues i had with my 02 and my last 4 other 98 dodges?


Help a guy out get the facts straight for shopping

 

I think there are some early 2005 model year equipped with the NV5600.
That transmission is also my preference.

Track bar is not an issue with 3rd gens.
A steering stabilizer will help tighten things up.

 

05s also had the plastic intercooler, not a problem until 40ish psi. I love my nv also,

Why you get rid of the 98s,

 

I love the motor, love the interior. hated the lack of 4 doors, hated the fact that all ive ever owned has been a short bed and how much ive needed a long bed. Really get irked at the brake steer that everyone of them has had.

Anyways my little brother pestered me enough so i sold him the black 98 12v with new tranny, tcase, axles, resealed PS/pump vacum pump new intake boots, new gauges and new interior, flip out towing mirrors as well as a #8 plate and scotty II for $10k. he got a pretty good deal since i paid more than that but he really wanted it and i wanted to try something newer and longer.

I found a couple of 98 12v long beds with 70-90k miles for 16-18k and for another 8k im looking at 50-60k miles and still under warranty with what im looking for ???? maybe

 

i have an 03 long box, 6 speed, 305/555, quad cab. love the truck. the thing shifts so smoothly, even in the cold. i get just about 19mpg average driving, in town, highway home, 28 mile each way. i think with the manual, you will get the good rear end. check the valve cover for the actual HP/TQ. request a build sheet before buying. also, my 03 with 73K on it, cost me $19000 plus tax, no trade in. could have had a couple more options, its the SLT, but...no rear slider, no power seat, no nav. unit. the quad cab is awesome, long box is a must for me, its a tutone paint job, graphite metallic/silver. its a joy to drive. with 77K on it now, nothing feels loose up front, and its all factory.

 

if you want mileage the 03 305/555's are the best on mileage. Seems that the 600's are better for big power easier. Check out some 04.5's

 

19k

Most everything ive found has been between 23-26 with a few in the 27 range all having 50-60k

Im thinking 60k miles in an 03 whould be in the 22-24 range for an offer but maybe im high