Retiring the 98-what to replace it with??
06-22-2008, 07:49 PM
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Retiring the 98-what to replace it with??
After 214k, several 5th gear fixes, and a 3k oil leak fix (dam kdp), I find it necessary to replace my beloved 12v 98. I'm looking to replace it with something newer, but need some input on what I can expect out of the newer Dodges. I don't want to sacrifice 20mpg, and I love the 5 speed and all the power this truck has. If I didn't have to pull a 5 horse trailer cross country by myself and worry about getting stranded on occasion, I'd keep the silver bomb forever.
My question for you guys, is what newer model will be closest to what I have now? I have only driven one 05 automatic, and it didn't have near the towing power my 98 does. I've heard the 07 and 08's are not getting the mpgs I'm used to. Looking on ebay for prices, I've found an 03, 06 and 07 with less than 30k on them, priced in the 20's. All are 5.9 I think. What's a girl to do???
Any help would be greatly appreciated!
My question for you guys, is what newer model will be closest to what I have now? I have only driven one 05 automatic, and it didn't have near the towing power my 98 does. I've heard the 07 and 08's are not getting the mpgs I'm used to. Looking on ebay for prices, I've found an 03, 06 and 07 with less than 30k on them, priced in the 20's. All are 5.9 I think. What's a girl to do???
Any help would be greatly appreciated!
06-22-2008, 09:04 PM
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id go with late 04 - 05 myself, thats when they released the lift pump fix.
my lift pump on my 04.5 went at 20k. When it happened they did a update to it and moved it.
no problems since then.
the prices on these trucks seemingly have dropped pretty quick now with 4.90$ diesel. Id just go with later model 04 - 05, plus the auto transmission is better as well i believe, different model than earlier versions built stronger...
my lift pump on my 04.5 went at 20k. When it happened they did a update to it and moved it.
no problems since then.
the prices on these trucks seemingly have dropped pretty quick now with 4.90$ diesel. Id just go with later model 04 - 05, plus the auto transmission is better as well i believe, different model than earlier versions built stronger...
06-22-2008, 09:05 PM
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I'd say an '03 or an '04 with the six speed. Good mileage and reliable with no cat or third injection event. Just add a new Walbro lift pump.
The third gens are really nice trucks!
Yes, 20 MPG is not out of the question with a 305/555.
The third gens are really nice trucks!
Yes, 20 MPG is not out of the question with a 305/555.
06-22-2008, 11:16 PM
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Find a late 03 or early 04 with the 305/555 motor, add a simple programmer made for mileage, gauges, exhaust, intake and have fun. Even with my 6" lift and 37" all terrains, my 04' gets me 17.5mpg in town with some highway mixed in there and a slightly heavy foot. Thats with my diablosport predator on extreme too.
06-22-2008, 11:33 PM
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why 3 5th gear fixes? put a fully splined main shaft in it and roll... I've got a 98 and an '04, and if my life depended on one of the two, I'd pick the '98 every time. not as new and flashy, but you can't beat the dead reliability of the 12v!!!!!
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06-23-2008, 09:47 AM
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What body style are you looking for? I got a heck of a deal on the truck in my signature if youre interested. I havent listed it in the for sale section so just shoot me a PM if interested.
06-23-2008, 11:12 AM
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06-23-2008, 12:05 PM
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06-23-2008, 04:43 PM
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How much weight and what you pulling?
I'd go for a third gen for sure. Seems like the 03/early 04 with the 305hp got the best MPG.
Low milage ones pop up all the time, just make sure they have done proper maintenance.
I'd go for a third gen for sure. Seems like the 03/early 04 with the 305hp got the best MPG.
Low milage ones pop up all the time, just make sure they have done proper maintenance.
06-26-2008, 08:17 PM
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Keep the second gen. I have 262k on mine and would drive it across antartica tomorrow if I needed to. Yes it does break so minor parts from time to time but they are from me playing. My 12v gets better MPG empty and loaded versus the 04.5 almost every tank. I also agree the new truck will go before the 12v leaves the stable. Most people on this board that dump their 12v's regret it and end up selling the third gen truck to buy another 2nd gen. I saw that several times, even before fuel prices went through the roof.
