Dodge Ram 1994-2001: Top 5 Aftermarket Modifications
From bed liners to tires to grilles and stereos, upgrading and modifying is not just a hobby, it's an occupation for some Ram owners. See what is happening with modifications in this article.
This article applies to the Dodge Ram (1994-2001).
You might not need it, but you want it. The beauty of aftermarket modifications is that there are plenty to choose from. Of these five most-popular modifications, you can pick which one(s) are best for you. With help from this article, you can modify your Ram so that it becomes even more "your truck."
1. Bed Liners
Bed liners are a popular modification. They look great, or rather they keep your truck from looking beat-up, and they are functional. A bed liner prevents you from worrying about the damage your cargo might do to the bed and automatically helps your Ram retain re-sale value. There are three kinds of basic bed liners: rigid liners, mats and coatings.
Rigid Bed Liner
A rigid liner lines the floor of the cargo bed. It's made of thick plastic or rubber and prevents a lot of bumps and bruises. This type of bed liner is non-absorbent, hoses off easily and comes in a variety of colors (but mostly black) and textures. You can easily install this kind of bed liner yourself and the cost is relatively inexpensive, about $75 for a basic liner.
Bed Mats
A bed mat protects more than the floor of your Ram's cargo area. It also protects the sides, front, tailgate, and the wheel wells. The fiber composition many find appealing because it is soft and pliable, not rigid. A bed mat is constructed of a plastic material and you can wash off oil, dirt and even battery acid easily. Install it yourself. Offered in a variety of colors, bed mats can cost up to $425.
Bed Liner Coatings
Made of an epoxy/rubber composition, bed liner coatings provides basic protection from scratches, rust and marring. Some coatings have two components to the mixture: a base and an activator. Whether the coating has one or two components, you can apply it yourself with a paint roller and brush. The DIY cost ranges from $75-110 whereas the professional cost will go for about $150 plus the cost of materials. Bed liner coating covers the bottom, sides, front, and wheel well areas of the cargo bay. A coating kit includes roller, brush, sanding sponge, drill-bit mixing paddle, gloves and instructions.
2. Tires
Upgrading from stock tires to better tires, and to tires that are more appropriate for your application, is a popular and sometimes necessary modification. Shop online or in person for a variety of tire choices. You will hear good things about "standard" brands like Firestone, BF Goodrich and Cooper but also about tire makers like Nitto, Pro Comp and Interco. We'll look at a few of the best.
Firestone Destination
Less than $100 per tire with a 60,000 mile warranty. One Ram owner reports great performance and awesome traction.
BF Goodrich Mud-Terrain T/A
Running about $325 per tire, owners report it's one tough tire (one owner drove around on a roofing nail for a year and the tire never leaked). "Nice fat muscle car look, traction is great everywhere, especially in the rain," reports another owner. Also available as retreads, which give you about half the mileage expectation (25K), but at half the price of a new tire.
Cooper Discovers
This tire is supposed to be great in the snow, and just OK in muddy conditions. The cost is about $175 per tire.
Pro Tip
Comparing notes with fellow Ram owners is great; consulting with a tire professional is better.
3. Cold Air Intakes
Outfit your truck with a new cold air intake and you can expect to see an increase in overall performance.
The idea behind a cold air intake is that colder air is denser so it contains more oxygen. More oxygen into the cylinders means better combustion; therefore more power and less fuel consumption. Newer vehicles do not regulate the temperature of the air entering the engine, so installing a cold air intake can definitely improve performance.
4. Grilles
Why not add a new grille to make your truck unique? Custom grilles can add personality to your ride and leave an impression as you head down the road.
The choices are endless for variety, color and style. Some owners have made their own by purchasing a grille cheap online, cutting out the crosshairs, installing some type of grating then using Bondo or a border material to make it look professional. Make sure you take the time to shop for a grille that suits your style, as there are plenty of options to choose from.
5. Radio/CD Player Upgrades
When looking for an upgrade, installing a new stereo naturally comes to mind for many Ram owners. Who doesn't want music that sounds good to sound even better?
You'll often hear Ram owners mention popular names like Alpine, Kenwood, Pioneer and Sony for the equipment. The modification depends on your expertise in installation and how much you want to spend. It also depends on what you are installing. Radio, CD player, speakers? All of the above? Many Ram owners try to use the original Infinity system wiring for an easier install.
New stereo units offer USB and auxiliary ports with the ability to play and charge your MP3 player and to read a flash drive if it has MP3 files on it. You can also use your smartphone to listen to Internet radio when you plug in with an app like Tunein.
Ram owners recommend working with a known source for the equipment. When you order from a supplier that specializes in stereo equipment, they supply the proper connections and instructions for your model Ram so that you avoid frustration when it comes to installation. Stereo suppliers also guarantee the unit will fit your Ram – another potential source of frustration.
Related Discussions
- Bed Liners - Dodgeforum.com
- Tire Brands - Dodgeforum.com
- Cold Air Intakes - Dodgeforum.com
- RBP Grille - Dodgeforum.com
