'03 or '04

[plntmgr]

I'm planning to purchase an '03 3500 HO 48RE. Does anyone have knowledge on the '04's other than the emissions change on the 1/04 and later models?

 

[Bill Littlefield]

changes

One of the dealers I talked to told me there will be some cosmetic changes. For example, the wood trim on the dash of the 03 is being replaced by a polished metal trim. I think the light under the hood is coming back. I'm sure he mentioned other changes but I can't recall the specifics. If your local dealer doesn't have or won't share any details, contact Dave Smith motors by phone and they'll fill you in. You can get their phone number at www.davesmithmotors.com. Hope this helps you decide.

 

[RMcCulloch]

In this thread <https://www.turbodieselregister.com/forums/showthread.php?threadid=76813> the news was announced that DC will be, at long last, giving blanket approval for the installation of a Jacobs Exhaust Brake on the 48RE-equipped CTDs.

 

[Posm]

The Carlton Bale post said that the E-Brake hardware would now be in the Auto, but the software would not be available until after Jan 1.

I once bought a jeep in late June or early July, just before the new models came out. When I traded it three years later I got hit for a couple grand in trade in because it was 4 model years old even though it was just one month older than the 3 model year old jeeps. I think you would need a couple of grand difference, even if all other thinks are equal.

 

[Bill Littlefield]

$$$ mater most

I agree with Posm. Dollars make the difference. I was waiting for an '04 but the $3,500 in rebates made me change my mind. If you keep the truck long enough the difference in models years is diminished.