Need advice replacing 2003 HO 48re

[tgrfan2]

My friend's 2003 3500 SRW 4X2 3. 73 HO 48re Laramie was stolen this week from the airport parking lot in Atlanta. This truck was like new and has always run great and pulled strong stock. He tows a 35' fiver 21K GCW.

He is trying to find another CTD as close as possible to this truck. We are wondering if the early 04s were comparable. It seems I have read about more problems with the 04. 5 and 05s. His only problem with the 03 was an ignition switch.

If he can't find a twin, he probably will be looking for an 06 or later automatic with an exhaust brake. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

 

[MFalkinham]

What a bummer. I leave my '03 at airports on occasion but it has never been messed with. If his truck had the Sentry key system from the factory I'd be very interested in how it was stolen. Flatbed?

The early '04 trucks are almost exactly like his '03. The only real difference is a revised steering wheel and headrests for the rear seats in quad cabs.

Make sure that whatever truck he gets has the Sentry system (or EVS-II installed by the dealer), and he should also install Jimmi Jammers in the doors. Plus, suggest that he always back into parking spots to prevent an easy tow-away theft.