May buy a 2003 ETC

[AlK]

My son is looking at purchasing a 2003 ETC, Q/C, auto, Sb, 4x4 Laramie with approx. 40,000 km (24,000 miles). The truck is in very good condition-looks like new, but we are planning on having it checked out. The truck was involved in an accident. I have copy of the repair bill and basically the front bumper and attachments were replaced.



What sort of things should we look for that are known to be problems or likely cause problems?



I am new to the third gen trucks so I have limited experience. Your advice and comments are appreciated.

 

[AlK]

The truck has the 47re transmission. I was advised on another board that the air condition may be a problem which is something that we will definitely check to make sure that it is working properly. A 143 point vehicle inspection has been done and the only 2 negatives found are:

1) the muffler, exhaust pipe, tail pipe and related hangers/clamps are rusty

2) some oil leakage from either the valve cover, cylinder head or rear seal



The rust on the exhaust system I am not concerned about. As far as the oil leakage goes, if it is minor, is this something to be concerned about?

 

[Diesel Nut]

Looks good to me. Does it have the injector tick real bad?

 

[AlK]

When I drove it I did not hear any injector tick.

 

[bighammer]

Mine looks sloppy-- Whole rear half of the engine has a film of oily gunk. I've tightened the head bolts and cover bolts, and the leak is really very inssignificant. Doesn't loose much between changes, (never have to add) but looking at it, you'd think it's much worse.

Sounds like a great truck. Buy it if the price is right.

 

[Prairie Dog]

The 03's often leak oil from the breather under the plastic valve cover ~ a couple of hose clamps takes care of that.

As far as the A/C I dont think 03's had many problems (mine works great).

It was mostly the Mega's that have a hard time cooling.

The 03's didnt seem to have as many vibration problems and are considered by some to be the best 3rd gens (I agree of course )

The only thing I would be scared of is collision damage to the front end that included the 4X4 mechanism.



Scotty

 

[bighammer]

My only vibration issues were the power Steering hose when the A/C was on, (fixed under waranty with the "doughnut" weighted hose) and U joints. (which seem to be problematic on ANY year )

 

[AlK]

Thank you for all of your replies. We picked the truck up yesterday.