Difference between '97 & '98?

[RNichols]

I'm a new member and I really appreciate all the good advice and information I've been getting on CTD's. I plan on getting my first Dodge soon and am wondering if there's any differences between a '97 and a '98 12v other than the quad cab option? Are there any improvements they made to the '98 models that are noteworthy? All 2nd generation 12valvers have the P7100 pump, don't they? Also, I've heard that the trucks with 5-speeds have Dana 80 rear axles but I've also heard that all 2500 CTD's have Dana 70's regardless of transmission. Which is correct? Thanks a lot for all the help.





Rob Nichols

Colorado Springs, CO

 

[gitchesum]

Here' s the line-up as I understand it



1989-1993 12 valve VE Rotary pump

1994-1998. 5 12 valve with the P7100 Pump

1998. 5-2002 24 valve with the VP44 pump



All manual transmission trucks and 3500's either manual or auto came with the Dana 80 hybrid.

2500's with the auto came with the Dana 70 rear.



If your looking for cheap horsepower. The 96-98. 5 12 valvers are the ones to have. They respond well to the modifications better and can put some good HP number down.

 

[Cooker]

All 5 speeds have the 80, even the 2500's.



Yes, all second gen 12v's have the P7100.



As far as differences between a 12v 97 and a 12v 98, as far as I know there are no performance/mechanical differences that are noteworthy. Maybe I'm wrong.



-Ryan

 

[Dennis Garrett]

When the 24v engine came out in 98 1/2, there were a lot of low power complaints. I drove one at that time, the first one I'd seen, & it wouldn't get out of it's own way. I think they've fixed that by now, but make sure you don't get one of those.

 

[The patriot]

I agree with all the above. I liked the dash board on the 98 better.

Also, the seat material differs with each year. The 97's material was a bit too psycadelic(sp?) for me. I got the leather.

Eric

 

[adiabatic]

We have a 97 and a 98 both 5-spd 12-valve. The 98 is better in many ways, including the dash, seats, steering wheel, mirrors, and cupholders.

Even the steering linkage is different, the brakes are better too.

Go for a 98.

 

[Forrest]

Another BOMBER

Hi Rob, get ready for the ride of your life TST will sell you all the HP/Torque you want for $300.

 

[Hammer]

98's ROCK !!!!

The 98 to me is a nicer truck inside than the 97,,Dash,cup holders and seat materials are different to name a few items,,Also the 97's were only available in Extended Cabs where the 98's had the Quad Cab option,,Just a preference deal with drivers,basically choose your poison for B. O. M. B. ing and let the wallet fall open and your off,,Oh,by the way,WELCOME!!!

 

[Cummins Corvette]

The 98 interior is WAAAAAAAY nicer than the 97. Get a 98 or newer if you can.