2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission The perfect truck

[Dreamer]

The perfect truck may be different for you but I have some ideas of what it would be for me. I bought a new 2500 QC 4x4 12 valve automatic in '98. I found the automatic just wrong for that engine. Too much slip and probably not strong enough for anything but easy driving. Sold it years ago and now I am looking for a great 4x4 truck to haul a heavy camper and think it should be like this:



96-98 3500 4x4 5 speed with 12 valve engine



I would rather have a later model '03-'04 6 speed with the 4 doors but then would have to live with the 24 valve engine. Am I wrong about this choice or should I consider the '03-'04 trucks.

 

[KBurgoyne]

where do you live. if its anywhere with smog requirements for diesels lean toward pre 98 12vs. the late 12v's still had EGR's and are not smog exempt. the newer common rails will have less petty issues to deal with, and plug in power. a 12v has mechanical complexity on its side, and cheaper parts. manual is the way to go if you want power without needing an extra 5 grand in the transmission. go to the search forums menu. theres enough to keep you occupied on that debate for a few weeks.



welcome to TDR by the way. beware the politics forum.

 

[Dreamer]

I am in Canada and in my area no smog requirements. Standard trans is my preference but I am undecided between the benifits of the 12 valve and the convenience of the 4 doors which means 24 valve.

 

[KBurgoyne]

how much $ are you willing to spend.

 

[Dreamer]

That's a pretty open question. Depends on what the truck is, mileage, condition, options, year, etc. etc. I'm not trying to find something cheap (a steal) but not stupid rich either.

 

[Grizzly]

Not a thing wrong with a 24 valve. I'd consider an 03, 04 or early 05 with an NV5600 standard 6 speed transmission. That way you get the 3rd gen with 4 doors.



I purchased a new 95 3500 dually, 2nd gen, 12 valve, 5 speed NV4500. It was a great truck, however my 05 dually is more than twice the truck. Twice the power and torque, more room in the cab and better mirrors for towing.

 

[S.Morris]

The chassis of the 3rd gen truck will handle the heavy camper with more driver comfort IMO. The convenience of the 4 doors is a BIG plus you will always wish you would have got if you don't. The 03-04 has no pollution controls on it in Canada.

Guess you'd be looking for a truck just like mine

 

[Dreamer]

Thanks for the input. I think I would be happier with the 4 door 3rd Gen. with the 6 speed. The hunt begins.

 

[Missouri Mule]

Dreamer you heard about the 24 valve engine for the 98. 5 to 2002 trucks which had a weak transfer pump (fuel pump) which would take out the Vp44 injection pump.

The Common Rail 24 valve is different animal. Thow the transfer pump is its weak point it will not take out the CP3 pump. Go with the third generation truck, even though the 12 valve is dependable some parts are becoming hard to find for the truck.

 

[Dreamer]

Thanks for the information. This is something I was not aware of. Makes the decision easier. 3rd Generation it is.