HI All,
I'm one of the newbies here and I'm not sure if this is the right forum to ask all these questions. I checked some of the FAQ links but I don't think they help all that much for someone that's never had one of these. So sorry for this very long post.

As I mentioned in my intro post I used to have a 98 1500 which I really did like. I traded that for my current '04 1500 Hemi. As we all know, the Hemi guzzles gas (10-12mpg NOT towing). I know any CTD is gonna get better mileage and probably give me 50 to 90 torque increase for towing. My current trailer/backhoe weighs in about 6k total but I may upgrade to a 10K trailer (and bigger backhoe) some day.

So my goals for getting a CTD would be:
-Towing up to 10k (technically in NY state you need a CDL to tow more)
- much better mileage, 20 MPG when not towing (winter snow driving)would be nice.
- would like it to be somewhat dependable. Not looking for a hot rod here, just a strong reliable truck.
-As I said I really like the interior and body on my 98 so I guess I'm looking for a 2nd gen
- Under $15k would be nice but I need to decide what I'm looking for first

So questions:
Auto trans - what are the different types here and which ones are stronger?

Gears - 3.73 seems to be a common one. Good compromise between mileage and towing performance? 3.55, others ?

5.9 12v/5.9 24V/6.7 - Looks like later 2nd gens (99 & newer) are gonna have the 5.9 24V. Any better mileage/reliability with this engine?

Failure items once we get to 100K+ - Sounds like the LP and IP are big ones. A guy I was chatting with today said $3K for his IP on a 125k truck. Common?
How about turbos? I'm sure they are real pricy too.

If I was to do 1 or 2 mods to get better mileage - Exhaust, tuner chip, injectors? What gets the most bang for buck for mileage (without loosing much power)?

Again, sorry to ramble on here. Just not sure where to start in my search

Thanks in advance
Brian

 

I think you want a '94-'98 12 valve with a 5 speed and 3.54's for your use. The 24 valve trucks commonly have injector pump troubles which are often caused by lift pump troubles. Turbos are not a big issue on any of these trucks, the originals often last as long as the engine.

With a 10k load I wouldn't want a stock auto. I'd want a stick. And I'd want to add an exhaust brake.

On a 12 valve, proper injection timing is going to be the big influence on your mileage. Exhaust and intake are next.

 

i wannadiesel is right on the money. i have had one truck with an auto will never have one again for towing. unless you spend a lot of bucks for tranny upgrades they nothing but headaches. the only 3:73's you'll find are in the 3rd gen. the 3:54's are a good ratio for towing. stay away from the 4:10's unless your climbing a whole lot of mountains with a lot of weight