2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission 2002 Advice, Comments ?

[AlK]

Looked at a 2002, 24V, Auto, 4x4, Laramie SLT, Quad, Short Box, low mileage, very clean truck. Comes with cloth seats, PW, PL, air, radio, manual 4x4 shift, 3. 54 rear with anti-slip, 4 wheel disk brakes. Took it for a drive and drives smoothly and much quieter than my 92.



I have checked for the Block 53 number and could not see the 53 or any 2 digit number on either side of the block near the front just above where the oil pan meets the block.



I have not been able to determine whether the 4x4 transfer case is the 241 or the 241HD or do diesels automatically come with the 241HD?



It also came with the factory hitch and wiring harness does that mean it has the towing package?



I have noticed that quite a few second gen trucks have a round metal rod running along the rear end, this truck does not. Is this a tracking or stabilizing bar?



From dropping in on the second gen forum periodically I have become aware of the potential Block 53 and the lift pump problems. In addition to the normal fuel filter the truck also has a Racor fuel filter - will this cause extra strain on the injection pump?



I will have the truck checked out by a Chrysler Dealership which involves about a 120 item check and I will also ask them to make sure that it is not a Block 53 and to check the fuel pressure at the lift pump.



Any comments or suggestions will be appreciated.



What do you guys think?



Thanks,

Al

 

[DirtyDodge]

Sounds like you are doing the same thing I did. I had a 92 that I replaced with the exact truck your looking at. I believe that bar you are talking about is a sway stabalizer bar. Sounds like it has the towing package on it. Good luck.

DirtyDodge

 

[Motorhead]

From my understanding, the HD transfer case has a metal PTO plate on it.

I have a '01. 5 2WD and I wouldn't sell it for anything. I personally like the 3:54's.

I went to DTT and had my trans built, put in a set of DDII's, edge EZ and a '02 HO HX35 turbo.

My truck runs now GOOD!!! and I can get 19-20 mpg on a trip.



BUY IT!!!!!

 

[RustyJC]

I intentionally ordered a 2002 because it was the last year of the 2nd generation trucks. Therefore, it should have had more of the "bugs" exorcised than any other 2nd generation truck (our previous truck was a 1996 3500). So far, my assumption has been valid - the 2002 has never been back to the dealer and hasn't had any warranty-type problems at all. The only problems I've had relate to stuff I've added (example - Westach fuel pressure gauge sending units).



Rusty