2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission 2002 or 2003 model

[RGardner]

I am thinking of purching a new 3/4 or 1 ton truck. What do you think about buying a 2002 with steep rebates or waiting for a 2003 with the new engine etc. I did drive a 1500 with all the bells and whistles, it was a real nice truck. The dealer tells me that several things that people have been wanting are available on the new style truck; power trailer towing mirrors, better climate control, etc. I know the first year of a new model is a gamble. Is it worth the wait, the extra bucks etc. Also if I should buy a 2002 with an automatic transmission how much $ would I be looking at to upgrade to be able to handle heavy towing with the addition on and EZ and maybe 275 injectors. Thanks!!!!!

 

[emarsh]

If you live in Calif. DO NOT WAIT for a 03, it will have less power than an 02. If you live elsewhere, make your own decision.

 

[Barry]

I have decided to buy a 2002/3500 tomorrow. I don't like the 2003 and most of the $5,000 worth of extra stuff on my truck will fit on a 2002. With the $4,300 from DC and a little from my dealer's holdback, a loaded dually is $27575. I cannot pass that up. I'll trade in my 2001/2500 on paper and cut them a draft for $20K and buy it back. Put both trux in my shop and swap all my equipment. Then blow out my 2500. It has been a great truck. I bet by the time I would get a 2003 rigged out, I would have $40K in it. For $40K, I could go buy a Medium duty truck.

 

[Motorhead]

If you want a truck that is "Buisness like" in looks ,inside and out, buy the '02. If you want a truck that looks like you are driving a "Snout-mobile" and looks inside like a Ford, Buy the '03. You are going to take a chance,in my opinion,buying the first full year of any model "anything"!! For the money you save on the '02, you could bomb the trans and engine and have a sweet rig for probably less $$$ than the '03.

MY $. 02 Chris