Yup, I couldn't stay away for long. I sold my loaded out 2002 after seeing some paint issues starting to develop, and didn't want to deal with repainting. I had been truck-less up until last week when I was skiing in Colorado and decided to cruise the local craigslist. Oops.

Seller was moving out and needed to sell 2 of his 3 cars. This one he purchased new in 2002 custom order. He had the same paint issues amplified by the higher altitude and repainted the truck a few years ago. Its a V8 with the sport package, 4x4, and one other little goodie I think you guys will spot.

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I got it for $4500 about half of what I sold my old 2002. I turned her over to 120,000 miles on the flawless 10 hour trip home.

I'm guessing it is not common since its the first one I've come upon.

 

to me the goodie would be the big stick on the floor, manual baby! (am i correct?)

 

i cant believe you sold your fully loaded dakota just b.c of paint issues. but good job u went with the 5speed.

 

It has 2 very solid features of my dream truck
1. De badged Glossy Black
2. Standard tranny

Nice find man

 

very nice!

 

Nice find !! I like that first pic of it ,,,, `mmmm -V-8 and a 5 speed

 

I had too much into it to sit and watch it deteriorate.

The price point makes this one a much more suitable "beater". I won't care about hauling things in the bed and putting a few scratches on it.

I do need to add a hitch, windshield, and redo the rear brakes. I imagine this thing will be a better puller with the extra gear. It definitely gets better MPG than the old one. I reset the computer at the start of my trip in Vail, CO and it averaged 19.8 MPG at 75 MPH.

 

It also looks like I'm going to be replacing the blower motor resistor. I assume that's why its only working on the highest fan speed?

 

thats correct

 

Looks like my truck...sans the toolbox...and umm...add a few scratches...damn trees too close!
Its a great truck...I dont know what else I would love to have...