Just recently (this week) got a 97 ram 1500 truck with the 5.2 V8. Everything seems fine etc. but I was wondering, are there any quirks about this year truck or problems that seem more common to 97's etc. that I should be watching for. Or any common problems I can head off before they arise?
thanks

 

Start by using the search feature and enjoy your next several years worth of reading about all of the problems with these trucks. Things like transmissions, engine issues, axle issues, electrical issues of all sorts, and pretty much every other part of them as well.

 

Read through the 2nd gen forum and you will get plenty of information. These trucks are all the same for the most part with minor changes over the years. The 97 is a great year as far as I'm concerned. Been a very good truck to me and wouldn't trade it for the world. You may need to do a plenum fix, (if it hasn't already been done) look that up in a search and you will get all the details. Take care of her and she'll take care of you!

And don't listen to SpeedDemon, he's a pessimist, (but he's alright).

 

Welcome to the world of dodges, I have had over 10 dodges and I have loved them all. Most had the 318 and it was great. My current truck is a 97 Reg Cab, short bed with the 318, 2 wd with over 180,000 miles. I have had pretty good luck with it. I think you got a good truck. Just take good care of it and keep the dog hair off the seat that your wife of other might sit in.

 

Thanks man. I feel the love. I'm just keepin it real.

 

97 rams had the same issues as most of the other rams.
1. Tranny
2. Intake manifold gasket.
3. Door rot
4. LSD rear ends failing
On
and
On
....

 

you cant forget the infamous cracked dash

 

Mine isn't cracked, and there are quite a few on here that don't have it either.

 

must be nice, i have the molded plastic cover over mine, although id like to get a new dash... but just dont know where to order one from.

 

The cracking dash are from 98+ Rams. For a new dash cover look here: http://www.pickupspecialties.com/dod...ash_covers.htm someone else posted this a while back and I kept the link.