Hi, I'm new to this forum but I am looking to buy a 2001 Durango with 43,000 miles on it. It has the 4.7 liter engine and is the SLT package. I've wanted something to accomodate the family (5 kids) while satisfying my need for some power and 4wd. This one has the 3rd row seat.

My question is, I'm going to look at it again tomorrow and is there anything in particular that I should look for? I have been reading up alot on these posts about sludge build up in the Durangos and its making me a bit worried.....is that something that mainly affected the 5.2's bigger V-8's or did it effect the 4.7 also? I simply cannont afford to put any "extra" money into this after I buy it especially if the engine blew or whatnot.

Ive been in the market for a Durango for quite some time now and finally have found one that I like, But i'm worried that in a year or so i'm going to run into big problems from what i've read about it's engine. IS it worth it or should I just wait it out and buy something different?

Any input on this would be GREATLY appreciated and I thank all in advance that take the time to do so.

 

I have had a 2000 SLT+ 4x4 with the 4.7 since new. We are at 110k miles now and really love the D. There are some problems that you may want to consider, the first is the ball joints. When you drive it, all speeds, look and listen carefully to the handling / steering etc. There is a re-call on these and Dodge will take care of you, so run the vin and find out if it's been done or if you'll have to do it. Also the brakes on mine work well, but the D warps rotors every 15-20k. This is an easy fix, $20 to have the old set turned or $60 for a new set at Napa and the R&R time is about 20 minutes. Just kind of a pain in the #@#%.
The 4.7 has never left us stranded in the 110k and runs like a top. No leaks, stutters and enough power. I have bolted on some mods that helped the mpg situation a little but usually get about 16mpg light footed and about 50-50 town / highway on 87 octane. The 4.7 is the first non-pushrod engine I have ever had, but I have to say it has been nothing less than very reliable. If I pull the cap, there is sludge or something there, but I decided to do nothing about it because it runs so well. I'm just afraid that adding a cleaner to the oil may cause problems rather than solving anything. I have done every service religiously so I have my fingers crossed that what I am seeing under the cap is just normal or not harmful.
I can say that when I found this forum, the reading was very interesting and if you have the time, I would recommend going through the whole thing as there are some very knowledgeable members that give great advice. Good luck!

 

By what I am seeing, it is the 4.7 that has the worse problem with the sludge. The deciding factor into why I got the 5.9