Looking at a 93, need some advice

[KMott]

Im going to look at a 93 ram 2500 4x4 reg cab long box auto, and was interested to know what i should be looking out for. Im more familiar with second gens, but want an old workhorse that i can depend on! The truck has 255K on it and looks to be in decent shape. Is there any common problems that i should be checking for?

Thanks in advance for any help.

 

[dpuckett]

Just the usual suspension, steering, and body issues the Dodges are famous for. If it drives straight, stops straight and smooth, and doesnt blow any huge cloud of smoke, you're set.



Steering linkages and box.



King pins (in leiu of ball joints)



Hubs work and engage properly



Fuel system for leaks and misses. Should rev up smoothly, even if to well shy of 3000rpm.



Shrunken Manifold Syndrome (almost guaranteed to have it, though I have seen some that apparetnly got vaccinated at the factory). Die grinder on the inlet ports will help the flow.



naturally, u-joitns, carrier bearing, all fluid levels and condition.



When turning tightly, if it has Limited Slip, check to see if rear axle grabs or clunks around corners.



Transmission "engages" and starts you moving before 1/2 throttle. That is a sign of a sloppy torque convertor, but that can also be a bargaining point, since you will likely want a tighter one.



Not tyring to scare you, but these are issues I've had to address with $1000 duallies, or have seen here or on other vehicles that have seen high miles and less than stellar service. Most of it is owner ignorance, but some is outright abuse or neglect. I'll cut some slack for ignorance..... Have to around here.



Daniel