Potential new 24v Rammer looking for advice - need input

[JGK]

To all 24 valve Rammers...

I have a co-worker who is looking at his first Ram. A '98 24v 4X4 5spd with about 90K miles. Owned by a retired couple who've been using it to pull a 5th wheel.

What can you tell him to look for/look out for as he scopes it out. They're asking about $21K.

I can't help much from the engine standpoint since mine's an early '98 12v and I haven't been watching the 24valve issues that close.

Thanks,
JK

[This message has been edited by JGK (edited 03-19-2001). ]

 

[Todd T]

98. 5 5spd, 2or4wd? there really arent any considering the truck is still untouched. if so then just ask to see any maintenance records they have. also any problems they have had with it, or know of that exist.

he/she should be getting a good truck if the above pan out OK.

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Todd,
2001 Q-cab SB 4x4 5spd 3. 55's, A pillar Boost/EGT,Jardines 4" turboback kit,custom built aluminum airbox W/K&N-RE0860 through the cowl, and more to come...

 

[MikeR]

The only problem to worry about is a bad lift pump.

-Mike

 

[JR2]

I would also ask about the 5th gear nut in the transmission since it was used for pulling. My Dad's stock 98 had the fifth gear problem with 60K miles (about 25 of those towing a 14 Klb fifth wheel).

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John D. Rathert Jr.
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01 2500 Forrest Green Sport SLT+ QC LWB 4x4 Auto 3. 54 rear end with all options avail. DC Nerf Bars, DC Grill Guard, DC mud flaps, Line-X bed liner, Leer 160XL Topper, Power Edge, EZ Edge, SPA Boost/EGT Gauge on pillar mount, DTT's tc/vb combo, 275 RV injectors, DD 4" Exhaust and a KN RE0880 where the air box use to be. New turbo (HX40), SS fuel lines and bigger injectors in planning stages... . See My Truck, Dads truck: 98. 5 3500 SLT QC LWB 4x4, Brother Truck: 92 W250 SLT CC LWB 4x4 (Dads old truck) Winter fun - 2000 Skidoo Summit 700
I am my own warranty station. ZOOM ZOOM
*************************

 

[TowPro]

Like other said, check maintaince records.

Known Problems,

Lift Pumps:
Mine was replaced around 78K, but I was always checking the pressure every oil change. When I got it replaced, it was just starting to hit 0psi under load. On the 98's, this was covered by the 80K HD Federal Emissions warrantee. If it was out of warrantee, I would buy one of the aftermarket pumps you read about here.

Engine ECM Code:
Check to see if it has had the recall done on the Cummins ECM. IF it has, there will (should) be a decal on the radiator support.
See the version of the code on this sticker, there is a new program out since then that is better (see www.dodgeram.org for more info on ECM TSB's) If its not up to date, the dealer will (should) charge you 1/2 hour to reprogram the ECM.

Body Computer:
check the Body ECM (PS firewall outside)for a decal and see if it has been reprogramed. There is a fix to make the cruse control less active while trying to hold a speed. again, this is 1/2 hour flat rate job. (and the program really works!)

If you take it to a dealer, they can check the code revisions with there scanner. Mine (98 5spd) shows the Body ECM could use a new version of code, but we searched the notes and the only changes were for the auto trans, so I said "NO". The dealer will (should) have the notes showing the additions from one code to the next right on there computer in the shop.

thats about it!

 

[JGK]

Thanks all for your replies. He read the posts in this forum extensively. He bought the truck today. Maybe a new member soon lurking in the bushes!

JK