Maybe my next truck?

[DonFitzwater]

https://fairbanks.craigslist.org/cto/d/2014-ram-eco-diesel/6742255044.html

Looks like a decent rig.....prime candidate for Green diesel programming! Anything in particular to look for on a 2014? I suppose I could get the VIN and have the dealer tell me if any recalls are in order. I know there are some software updates to do but besides that, anything major to be aware of?

 

[jgillott]

Have you owned a 4th gen 1500 yet?

I can't comment on the Ecodiesel itself. Someone else can give you info there. But, I have a ton of experience with the trucks themselves.

Things to look for.

1) Sway bar end links

2) Check front CV joints and boots

3) Make sure the HVAC actuators respond correctly to the control head

4) Front hub bearings could be suspect at that mileage

5) Lower rocker panels and rear wheel arches are rust prone

 

[DonFitzwater]

Rust isn’t really a problem up here.... the HVAC problem is interesting. I hate working on dashes.

I like the price and have been wanting an Ecodiesel.

 

[JR]

No first hand experience but based on some of the engine failures I've seen on here I'd let the owner sort out the problem first. Or at least make him get it diagnosed from a dealer and decide if you are comfortable going forward. If it is indeed just an emissions problem and your looking to delete that could be in your favor.
Good luck!

 

[jgillott]

The "oil changed this week" line in the ad scares me a little. Changed due to mileage or changed to mask a problem?

 

[AHutson]

Outside of what jgillot recommends on checking out I would be ready to change the transmission fluid. I did the wife's at 60,000 miles and that was almost too long for it's first change. Filter and magnets had lots of fines on them. Transmission was a lot happier after I changed it. I have the ZF directions in English if anyone needs them let me know and I will email them. Geno's has the best price on the pan kit, we bought 10 liters of fluid from ebay. It's expensive and was plenty of extra but we have lots for the next time now. We bought the ZF Lifeguard 8 since it was quite a bit cheaper than the Mopar 8 speed fluid. Green diesel should put all the current software updates on any tune you buy from them is my understanding.

 

[VernDiesel]

I haven't had any of the issues on jgillott's list but have seen hella rust on 3rd gens. I'm actually surprised at 490,000 that I have not had any of those issues especially the front hub bearings. I did my first trans fluid change at 100k and it still looked good but had dirty fluid at 300k which prompted another change shortly. To date I have changed the trans fluid 5 times with 3 filters and it shifts flawless. I'm happy with the trans considering most of the miles are with TT in tow.

Don do watch the coolant level to make sure it stays up they are prone to slow hard to find coolant leaks. Let us know if you got it.