Help on Purchase of 03????

[radar doctor]

Tomorrow i'm going to look at a new 03 on a lot. I need some help as to what i need to look at and be sure to check. I have read that there is some Vibrations in the drive shafts??How bout it Guy's ??? Any thing you can think of will help?? Tks Bill

 

[Barry]

Is it new or used? Tell us about the truck... ... ... .

 

[radar doctor]

More data

It's New on a dealer Lot. it's a 4X2 H. O. Automatic, Non Slip 373 rear end, Haven't seen it yet... Tks Bill

 

[JWChessell]

Checklist

Here is the address for the 9-page checklist:



http://www.dodgeram.org/buying_info/Inspect.htm



Dave Fritz at the Univ. of Vermont prepared the list. Here are his additions for the 2003 that he sent me on 7-16-03:



"I have not revised the checklist because is still works for the 2003 models. "



"I need to add:



"Test the function of all remote keyless/alarm buttons at a distance of 80' from the truck.



"Check the operation of the rear cargo storage and folding load floor in Quad Cab models.



"Check the operation of the adjustable pedals over the full range of travel.



"With the key off, press the accelerator pedal slightly -- about 1/4" down, but make sure the pedal did not simply pivot on the arm -- then turn the Key "on" and start the engine. Now release the accel pedal, put the truck in gear, and make sure that the engine responds to the accel pedal.



"There have been some software problems in the ECM that completely lock out throttle control if the idle position switch is not closed when the engine is started. A TSB has been issued to address the problem for 03 models by reflashing the ECM. This sort of problem with the idle position switch has been around in one form or another since the release of the 24-valve engine in 1998. Before you take it home, use the test above to make sure your new truck will not leave you at the side of the road with an engine that will only idle. "