What's the truth about 2004 HO?

[dandlwiley]

I know what the difference is supposed to be on the after 1 January 2004 engines--and Robert Patton said early in the TDR that they would cost more to purchase, cost more to maintain, and cost more to run due less milage. Does anyone have any more technical information on what to expect? Timing isn't good on getting a 2003--looking for some property and Class V receiver not available yet. Will the early 2004's be the same engine as 2003--seems like they would be. Thanks.

 

[Posm]

I talked with a Cummins Engineer at the N. American Farm Machinery show last Feb. He told me that Dodge would not put the EGR in until the day they had to ( Jan 1, 2004). He also said they may not use the EGR, but have explored several options to reduce emissions. They have settled on a design, but for proprietary reasons, he would not tell me about it.

He also told me they could put out a lot more HP if the DC power train team would let them.

I would not be surprised if they put a few more ponies and a handful more torque in the 2004 model, if for no other reason than to "keep up with the Jones'".

 

[Jeff Clark]

I'm interested in what 2004 will bring also. My truck is barely 2 years old so my next one will be a 2004.