Okay, so a 2Gen Ram has tons of issues, like tranny, plenum, and rear ends.
Honestly, what can I expect from a Dakota.
I am looking at a SXT, 4.7L, 4 door with about 32K miles on it.

how are the trannies? Long term issues?

 

the 4.7s are good engines in my experience, (i have almost 70,000 on mine and noe problems yet, dont make me jinx it), tranny ont he 4.7 is a 5spd auto, slightly different than the 4 spd you are used to but a good tranny i think its built to go behind the hemi too(not sure on this tho so dont quote me)
if you take care of the engine it will run for a long time and i have the tow package with the heavy duty rear end and it has been fine, but check that the t-case works as some people have problems with the electronic ones that came in the newer trucks good luck you will like this truck

 

I have 4.7L w/ 5 sp manual - no engine problems, no trans issues, and my truck is in the shop getting the rear end rebuilt as I am typing. Going with a Tru Trac diff. to replace the stock chrysler unit. My truck has 107K miles. It has been great until this point. Something else to look for on gen 2's is the front hubs.

 

rear ends with a limited slip and not taken care of can give lots of problems.