2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Recommendations...

[Signal73]

Gut the Cat if it has high mileage. 4" aftermarket systems will be good for at least 450hp and are relatively cheap if you find a truck that needs one replaced.

300/700 will be just a starting point, trust me lol...

 

[Roger Dodger]

I'm still looking, have found many that are close, but no cigar.



One thing I have not been able to decide on is a manual or automatic trans.



I know the manual had more power, but since i'm going to bomb it anyway, I really dont consider that.



I do intend on upgrading whatever is necessary to make it to higher power levels as far as the transmission goes.



Can I get some guidance here as which way to go i. e. drivability, fuel mileage, longevity, confort, reliability. ect?

 

[bkroupa]

I like my 5 speed for pulling my TT & the hwy driving I do. You just can't speed shift the manual. If you want to do any stop light grand prix, a built auto would be much quicker. During the Hurricane Rita evacuation, I got caught in a couple of hours of stop n go pulling the TT a length at a time. I would've liked an auto that day

 

[Bart]

I've been told that the '98 Quad cab is the holy grail of the Dodge world. It's a six month window where you could get the back doors and the 12 v'r. I love mine and it's just broke in 161K. Yea the trans went a 96K, but I bit the bullet and installed a killer automatic. I run with a cab over camper (almost 11 footer) pulling a steel car trailer with a 4-5K lb '66 Bronco on it. Dodge loves it and works like a trooper. I don't run real fast, normally around 57 mph (that's 1500 rpms). With that I can get an average of 16 mpg (loaded). Not too bad. If I'd bought the truck new I'd ordered a manual trans, but I understand they have a problem with the fifth gear nut coming loose so either way there's a problem. The KDP is an easy fix with the available kit. Some Dow pins come loose some don't, but the peace of mind after it's done is worth it.

One last note is that I have a friend who had a '97 (back doors didn't open) and he said it was a pain getting anything in or out of the back.

 

[Roger Dodger]

Whadya think guys... ... ... ... ... . he's already got it doesn't he!



You'll love the 12valve and the ease of increasing torque on these engines. The early 98s have the Quad Cab and 12valve, it's the best of both worlds. IMHO



Good Luck and welcome to TDR.

We'll, Got an early 98 with the 12 Valve!!!! More to folllow in a few days! Oo.

 

[bkroupa]

Congrats!

The wife & I like ours so much we'd both consider it a step down to have to get a new truck