2nd gen vs. '04-'06

[Bo]

I currently own a '98 ctd, quad cab, 4wd and am wondering if the newer trucks ride better? My truck rides like a lumber wagon and am thinking of buying an '04-'06 model and would like to here from someone who has owned both. Also thinking of a 3500? Would like to here your opinion.

 

[AMink]

I have a 97 2500 and an 06 3500. The 2500 has a KORE Pace suspension on it. Before I put that on, it was a lot rougher on expansion joints and washboard dirt roads. It rides nice now. The 3500 isn't bad, and the steering is a lot more precise. Unless you really want or need a new truck, I'd put some $$$ into a new suspension and steering gear. On the other hand, the new ones are awful nice! I just keep in mind that they are trucks and no matter what I do, they won't ride like a sedan.

 

[wcjp]

My 06' Mega rides way better than my 96' 2500 w/Rancho adjustable shocks. The Rancho's did improve the ride quite a bit. Haven't had time to install Rancho's on the 06'.

 

[Grizzly]

I had a 95 CTD, 4x4, DRW, Club Cab and now I have an 05 CTD, 4x4, DRW, Quad Cab. Both are a great ride. I can't say that one is better then other. Now the 05 does handle my 11 1/2' Cab-Over-Camper better then the 95. Less squat, less sway, much more power and better economy.

 

[GaryOwen]

My 03 3500 2wd DRW Quad rides MUCH better than my 95 2500 4x4 SRW Club! Still have the 95, but put most of the miles on the 03. Get better mileage on the 03 also.



I bought my 03 last spring and wonder why I waited so long!

 

[Grizzly]

My 03 3500 2wd DRW Quad rides MUCH better than my 95 2500 4x4 SRW Club! Still have the 95, but put most of the miles on the 03. Get better mileage on the 03 also.



I bought my 03 last spring and wonder why I waited so long!

Do you think the difference in the ride is 2WD, DRW vs 4WD, SRW?

 

[wcjp]

Do you think the difference in the ride is 2WD, DRW vs 4WD, SRW?

My 96' was 4wd CC long bed. My 06' is 4wd Mega. Very near the same length of truck. Both have canopies. The 96' did have a rear sway bar. The mega weighs about 200lbs more. I think the big difference is the spring rates. My Mega will sag more with the same weight vs. 96'.