Looking for a recommendation

[Titaniumman]

Howdy all, I'm new here and am looking to buy my first diesel pick-up. My primary need for the diesel is to tow my 24' camper where I want to go and on extended camping and hunting trips. I am figuring on having $20-$25k to spend but don't need to go overboard. I live in N.W. Montana so I'll probably go 4x4 also. So what year(s) Dodge Cummins should I be considering? Thanks in advance.

 

[BDaugherty]

I'm biased, but...
I would look for a 03-07 6spd 4x4. You didn't say how heavy your camper is so I really can't say for certain, but a dually may be best if your primary use is camper pulling. I would think that you can find a fairly nice 3500 4door 4wd dually with 6spd and Cummins power for what you are looking to spend.
Another option depending on how much room you want in the cab would be to find a 99-02 6spd dually with the 24v engine and use some of the left over money for a power adder, exhaust brake, and other personal touches.

 

[Cummins12V98]

2002 HO 6 speed stick.

 

[Gonzo 1066]

I am selling my 04, 3500 4x4 dually 6 speed flatbed truck sometime this fall.. Ex Brake, locking hubs, lots of extras.

 

[Powder Extreme]

2002 HO 6 speed stick.

I have exactly that here in Bozeman that I am selling. Shoot me a PM if you are interested.

 

[Bob V]

Another vote for the 3rd gen with 5.9, 2003 to 2007. the 3rd gens power, brakes, and stearing are MUCH better than the 2nd gen and you get a USEABLE back seat. I would only go with the 6.7 if you go with the 4th gen but that is out of your price range. Stay with the 6 speed, I never was a fan of the 4 speed auto. If you do go with the auto plan on rebuilding it right after you buy. If its doesn't need it that is good but it seems like every one I have seen the transmission is on it's last legs when it is sold. A GOOD rebuild can run over $4,000 depending on you needs/wants.
Be aware that the 3rd gens do have injector issues with higher miles. Fuel quality and filtering are very important and have a big impact on injector life. The problem is price, $400-600 EACH for new, and you really are gambling if you buy recon injectors.
If a dually can work for you Gonzo's would be a good one to look at. He has been around a bit and knows about these trucks. I will tell you right now the manual transmission trucks are hard to find and the price reflects that. A friend just sold a 2006 mega Laramie 6 sped with 215,000 mi for $30,000. The guy flew out to Oregon from back east to buy it. It did have a lot of work done to it thought, new injectors, front axle redone, new brakes and a south Bend street dual disk clutch.
Good luck on your search. There is a buyers guide on this site that will help with what to look for on each year truck