Worthy Options

[MWillis]

With the new smog motor acoming in early 04 - I am looking at buying a new 2500 or 3500 srw quad cab lb 4x4 - and selling the old faithful 96 2500 extended cab - I would love to hear thoughts on option you though worthy & those not. (Laramie -vs- SLT etc) Also would love any input on 3500 srw -vs- 2500 - is there much difference other than rear springs?, HO engine -vs- regular engine, manual -vs- auto transmission (HO engine currently only manual transmission available). Hard to resist "mo par". I have an auto transmission now & I am leaning toward manual. I would like better control over the shifting for acceleration and deceleration purposes - but I hear with the new brakes - stopping is better and with the more powerful engines - acceleration should be better. Mark - Confused in Akron OH !!

 

[bighammer]

I think the HO can have an automatic behind it now. (wasn't available before)



The brakes and steering are MUCH improved over previous models. (OK, I've only really driven a '94)



My old truck was ordered as a work truck. Basically stripped. I did get air and cloth split seat but that's about it.



This time around, I got a Laramie with all the goodies. There's a few things I would not order if I had to replace it. (adjustable pedals, auto dim mirror, electric transfer case shift, and probably others I'm not thinking about) I'm not sure I'm going to like painted bumpers either.



I do like the fold flat floor in the rear. I probably wouldn't have ordered it, but I'm surprised at how much I've already used it and like it. (pricey to add after, I've heard) Same with the heated power leather seats.



Tow mirrors are nice. Esp. remote control. Also $$$ to add after the fact.

 

[krabman]

The 3500 gives you roof marker lights, (option on 2500) over load springs, and larger pistons in the rear brake calipers. The last 2 are not available on the 2500. Assuming you get the HO the rest of the gear is the same. There is no difference in the ride between the two. It is more in my area to register the 3500 and more for insurance as well. There are quite a few folks that dont really need the 3500 (like me) that got one anyways since there is little penalty. I dont see any point in not getting the HO now that you can order an auto with it. As far as options if your going to go loaded then you will want the laramie. That will get you nearly all the comfort items save the heated seats which need to be ordered seperatly and are nice to have. IMO the limited slip, towing, and towing mirrors are must haves for any truck.

 

[bighammer]

Forgot about the limited slip.





Enjoying that too.

 

[rbattelle]

I'm with Bighammer on the adjustable pedals and electric-shift transfer case. Both are just extra electrical accessories to go bad later on down the road.



I got the SLT with only the following options that I thought were "must haves":



1. Power folding trailer-tow mirrors

2. Premium cloth seats

3. Folding flat load floor

4. Tow package

5. Protection group



Heated seats sure would be nice on these cold mornings, but I couldn't see spending all that money on leather!

 

[EnLjones]

It all boils down to how you plan on using your truck both now and in the future. The HO is a no brainer, you can get it in either the auto or stick. For the difference in price between a slighty loaded truck or a fully loaded truck is not a big difference considering what these dang thing cost! I say go for everything except leather... it you don't get leather then you don't need heated seats I personally like the adjustable pedals because I'm a little guy and this gives me the option of sitting back away from the steering wheel

 

[TBrennan]

Unlike previous years, the ESOF is a single switch to the transfer case so I wouldn't expect it to be any source of concern. It's totaly electronic isn't it? I don't think it even uses a vacuum line. I like having the extra floor space for a console!

 

[smartineau]

The adjustable pedals make it so on the rare occasion the boss drives my truck she can be far enough away from the air bag, so as not to get hurt. If your wife is not short don't spend the money.



fold flat floor is really nice, I put down some foam padding and the dogs have lots of room.



steve

 

[krabman]

Its interesting how people view the worth of different options. I find the power pedals a great way to fine tune the seating position. As above the are also good for my spouse who doesnt have to belly up to the steering wheel in order to reach the pedals anymore. This does bring up one of my pet peeves though. After she drives it takes me 20 minutes to get the power pedals, the seat, mirrors and wheel back were I want em. I wish they would have given us dual memory for the drivers side.