Movi into the 3rd gen

[JamesSimpson]

Im going to take the plunge. Since my 02 was totalled 2 weeks ago. Im lloking to get a new used truck. Anything I should watch out for. What years should I avoid. Im wanting the 6 speed 4x4 qc 2500.

 

[Prairie Dog]

I'm partial to 03's myself.



Scotty

 

[madmax4688]

If your looking for a really good deal then get a leftover 05. It will have the 610 ftlb engine and 0 miles with the 7/70k warrenty. Dodge went to a 3/36k for 06. you can get a 05 for around 35k. Go to dodges web site and type your zip in then click on all the 5 star dealers in your area to see thier inventory. Non 5 star dealers will not have their inventory on the web. If your really good you can get the price down to 30k if they are desperate to get rid of their 05's. Just bought my 06 3 weeks ago but I was looking at leftover 05's for a little bit prior. Read my hell story if you want a good laugh.

 

[BHolm]

I am also very partial to the '03-04 trucks with the 305hp/555tq engine. You will get similar fuel milage to your '02. Staring in 04. 5 the "600" engine came out and fuel economy dropped pretty bad in my experience. I would also personally go for a 3500 srw, why not get a little extra rated capacity? It has no effect on the ride quality. Then if you are considering an '05 I would be careful to find one with the NV5600 from the early part of the year. The newer G56 seems to be OK but the NV5600 is pretty well proven and would be the six speed on an '03-04 truck for sure. The only things to check out are u-joints and ball joints otherwise the trucks are pretty solid.

 

[wcjp]

With the zero percent interest you might find a new truck cheaper than an old one. A certain dealer in Idaho has a QC Longbed 4x4 auto for $34k.