heads up for those looking at 2500's

[dmurdock]

I was at the dealership getting my track-bar replaced (before warranty runs out) and struck up a conversation with a guy who has an 03 2500 4dr longbed.



He was in there to get his trailer light hookup (in the bed) re-wired, but he had another complaint. He traded in a 99 2500 for the 03. He said he hauls a backhoe and sometime 2 jeeps. On his old truck, the bed dropped maybe an inch when he hooked up. . on the new one, he said it drops at least 6 or 7 inches. He was *****in' at the sales guy because they didn't give him a truck with the "overload" springs on it.



As far as I know, the "overload" springs are the camper package springs which are only available on the 3500... right?



This is just a warning, if you like to go overloaded (like this guy) you might want to consider a 3500, because although the 2500 can pull it, the longer springs on the 03's are more giving and thus may frustrate you the way this guy was.



PS: They tried to get me to test drive an 03, I wouldn't do it. I am absolutely certain if I did I would have driven home in one (and been calling a divorce lawyer the next day).



If they ever offer the 0 interest thing, I don't think I'll be able to resist (althought i don't anticipate this anytime soon).

 

[Chris N5CWM]

I am the same way when it comes to looking at the 03s. I can look

but not buy! They are neat trucks and I'm happy with the new

look! The only thing I would change is the tailgate lights on the

3500s. WAY too big and look like a cheap afterthought. They

should have been placed just between the tailgate and bumper.



As for the sagging rear end claim, the new GM 2500HD uses the

same American Axle products and I have seen a few GMs towing

heavy trailers squatting pretty bad too. When I compare them to

my 2001. 5, the overall spring packs look smaller and thinner too.

 

[Un-Hemi]

My '99 2500 has overload springs on it, as well as the sway bar. I guess that's the camper package.



I won't test-drive an 03 until the stealership has a 2WD LB 4dr with a HO 48RE. Period. Enough acronyms?

 

[Fireman]

Ram CTD+drive=love

dmurdock,



You're wise not to drive an '03, I had already ordered one when they started showing up on the lots in early Sept. I test drove one of the first ones on the lot, after that the next 3 weeks seemed like the longest in my life. There is a lot to like about these new trucks, I thought about making a list once, but it got too long. There a few negatives , but they are out weighed by the positaves. Now only time will tell. For now I'm



Fireman

 

[4xquadrod]

I pulled up to the dealer in my 2002 Chevy to check out the new Hemi and ended up buying my first Cummins.



It is not a good idea to test one if you are weak.

 

[klenger]

My wife would go nuts if she knew I was just reading the '03 forum.

 

[Pit Bull]

I drove an 03 and bought the 02. Got to say that I really love the looks of the 94-02 trucks. Love the sound of the 94-02 CTD. The 03's looks are growing on me and I am sure the new owners will enjoy their 03's. It will be interesting to see what 1st/2nd year problems are discovered, or did Dodge/Cummins do a "Toyota" like job on this new design?? Only time will tell. Good luck all you new 03 owners