Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) 99 keep or not to keep

[Dmundell]

I have been seriously thinking about getting a new truck. I don't know much about the 2003 or 2004's I am going to either keep mine and upgrade to a ATS or buy a new truck. Want some of your opinions on this,Should I stick with what I have and make it better or should I look at whats out there now CTD,DMAX,PSD? Let me know what you guys think after all you are the pros I am just learning.

 

[athompson]

What's wrong with what you have?

I didn't read in you're post anything that you were unhappy about with you're current truck. If you don't know why you want to trade trucks, you probably won't be happy with a new one either.

 

[LSMITH]

I think a smart man would look at everything on the market right now if shopping for a new truck. You could also look at trading yours on a used truck with a manual trans so the auto upgrade hit does not hit you.

 

[Dmundell]

Nothing wrong with what I have yet!I tow 14000# horse trailer and out here in the west alot of steep hills. I don't want to put out $3000 for an upgrade transmission as this is the weak spot of my truck. Also not enough torque or HP I will need to buy a comp box. I am just weighing my options before I spend alot of $$$.

 

[athompson]

It sounds like you need to figure how much it will cost you to change trucks. Will you recoup what you have spent on the truck so far? Remember depreciation, upgrades done etc.



If it costs you less to change trucks than what it would cost to properly upgrade the transmission, it may be a good idea to change. However, I would suspect that it will cost more.



Remember that the 2003 model HD trucks are all brand new, except for the Chevy/GMC. I've always avoided new models of anything for at least two years. I would rather not be the guinea pig.

 

[illflem]

Don't forget to figure in increased insurance and registration costs, the savings in those alone in a couple of years may pay for a transmission upgrade.

 

[rblomquist]

Originally posted by athompson

I would rather not be the guinea pig.

What athompson said!!!!!

 

[Pit Bull]

"99 Quad cab 4X4 LB AUTO LSD 4:10s

loaded including leather,Line-x,Isspro Pyro/Trans temp/Boost on A-Pillar,RS 9000,Mag-Hytech rear diff,Double Deep trans pan,DT Trac Bar..... "



Nice truck, your not going to get much for these upgrades on a trade or private sale. It would be cheaper (maybe) to upgrade the transmission and add the EZ. Of course I'm the guy that just traded his 2000 3500QC ETC auto 4x4 for the truck in the sig But it only cost me $2,700 difference out of my pocket to trade So the deals are out there. You should at least look and see what you can find that would better fit your needs. Good luck!!!

 

[cmills]

Your decision

I wanted to trade trucks but after I got to thinking about it, it didn't seem to be that good of an idea. I like having a new truck but after a couple of months it just seems like a regular truck to me, (not regular, but you know what I mean, any cummins powered truck is good) plus it's nice to not have any payments. I guess you just have to look at your own wants/needs If you haven't had any big problems with your truck than I would keep it unless you just want a new truck that bad. Who's to say you won't have worse luck with a new truck, although that probably won't happen, but like others have said you might want to wait a least a year and see what kind of problems they do have. Just my opinion, good luck in whatever you choose!!





Cory

 

[Dmundell]

Thank-you for your responses,Like I said I just wanted some opinions from some people who know more about these trucks than I do. You are absolutly correct I do not want to be a guinea pig for a new product. These trucks cost way to much for that. And after all I have precious cargo aboard!!

 

[Phil Stuart]

Originally posted by Dmundell



CTD,DMAX,PSD? Let me know what you guys think after all you are the pros I am just learning. [/B]

I myself wouldn't even consider buying a Ford or Chevy unless the offered it with a Cummins powerplant!



Just my . 02 worth



Phil

 

[WadePatton]

The transmission upgrade is the way to go.

 

[harleebkr]

Originally posted by Dmundell

I have been seriously thinking about getting a new truck. I don't know much about the 2003 or 2004's I am going to either keep mine and upgrade to a ATS or buy a new truck. Want some of your opinions on this,Should I stick with what I have and make it better or should I look at whats out there now CTD,DMAX,PSD? Let me know what you guys think after all you are the pros I am just learning.

As we get closer looks at the 03s, and see all the stuff that is missing since 99 (lighted vanity mirrors, tailgate protector, wheel well liners, passenger handle, 1-2 leaf springs, under hood insulation, etc. ) Seems like a lot of $$ to spend for less truck. You shouldn't have tp spend$75-80 to have the dealer install wheel well liners on a $40+ truck! Plus, add up the extras you would have to replace: Brush guard, ranch hand bumper(s), goose neck hitch, step rails, bed liner, tool box, headache rack, etc. Mine would run another$2k. Upgrade and keep your $. Good luck.

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99 2500 SLT+ LWB 4X4