Howdy all! I have a 2001 Durango R/T that I've had for just about a year. I'm new to the site, but it's already saved me some grief by learning that the platinum plugs I was about to install are a no-no for these engines! I'm taking them back and getting the proper copper plugs.

I have several questions for the more experienced owners. I was originally going to trade it in in another year when the extended warranty I got runs out, but the longer we have it, the more it's growing on us. The vehicle is stock except for the K&N air filter. The vehicle has approx. 143 000km total, and it had the engine replaced at the dealer that originally sold it new at 108 000 km. Current engine has about 35 000km on it now.

What would you guys recomend in the way of improvements/upgrades to increase or maximise fuel usage, reliability, durability etc? The vehicle will be used for general family use, transporting kids and equipment for the Army cadet corps I volunteer with, towing our 19' I/O boat (approx 3200lbs) or utility trailer, and some light 4x4/logging road travel to access camping and hunting areas. The off-road stuff won't be hard-core boonie bashing so I'm not looking for major lifts and huge tires.

Thanks for any and all suggestions!

 

Question: Why did they replace the engine?

In terms of improving mileage.... nothing much really. You have a heavy vehicle, with a powerful motor, with little to no aerodynamics. You buy a Durango for all the 'other' benefits and unfortunately, great gas milage isn't on that check list.

IndyD

 

What he^ said. We're driving around HUGE bricks! LOL!

 

actually i think a brick has better aerodynamics than these trucks

and the only way to improve your MPGs is to get a lighter foot and not romp on the gas all the time

 

Thanks for the replies. As far as milage goes, I realize it ain't gonna be no Geo Metro, I was just wondering if there was anything as far as tuning etc. to that would help if even just a little.

Indy: The motor was replaced because the previous (and original since new) owner had done some mods to it himself and blew it. (Dealer said it was a young guy with well-off parents. ) The new motor has been left stock.

I'm more interested in making this a reliable vehicle that will last for several years, rather than making high-performance mods.
Thanks again.

 

Keep the transmission and difs services, the oil changed, and enjoy many many miles.

212,000+ on my 5.9L to date. Stocker. Never opened.

IndyDurango

 

+2 guys.....LOL

 

superchips add slight improvement but for $400-500 not practical

 

How often should I have the tranny/diffs serviced? And would you reccomend sticking with a Dodge dealer or going to a tranny specialty shop? I've been reading quite a feew posts about having bad experiences with dealer service centers.

Any reccomendations about brake and/or suspension upgrades? I will need to do the front brakes soon so what should I look at for pads? Regular or one of the carbon/ceramics? If I go with the ceramic pads, do I need to upgrade the rotors?
Any thoughts on brands for shocks, ball joints etc?

Thanks again!

 

what kind of mileage do you guys get on your D's? i get about 14.5 citi and 19 on high ways.