I'm looking to get a decent used dodge not sure what year as of yet, but its definitely going to to be 2nd gen. I need a 4x4 and extended cab.

Whats some of the models / trims, engine sizes, or just packages to stay away from?
whats some of the problem areas i should look and listen to while on a test drive?
any input will be awesome, thanks!

 

I've had two dodge rams one was a 5.2l 318ci and the other a 5.9l 360ci. the 318 was a regular cab short box basic model and the 5.9l is a larime slt extended cab. They were both 4x4 and If your looking at an extended cab I would stay away from the 5.2l motor. In my regular cab short box I only got 10-12 mpg with it and is very under powered if you want to pull anything. My new truck is the same years and is the slt trim and I get 13-14 mpg and have alot more power. The one thing that I should of looked at when I bought my new one is the end of the front axles make sure that the theres no gear lube leaking out on either side. I've had to replace the axle seals on both my trucks now and it cost about $600 cause they have to take the whole axle apart.

 

take the truck for a ride and go to a trans shop and see if they will do a free ride for you and get their opinion. i have a 98 sport with the 5.2 ext. cab 4x4. I was only getting about 10 mpg but i just had the trans rebuilt and honest to god i am getting 15 now. and it needs a plenum gasket still. i have never had a problem pulling anything with the 5.2. I've pulled a 3600lb camper with both my moms 97 surburban and my truck and i think my truck pulls it better.
Just my input

 

look into the throttle body, for these have problems with the plenum gasket, and look for pooling of oil. iftheres oil ts bad.

also make sure the tranny fluid looks nice and clean and up to right level, (check in neutral)


I love my Ram, and i would by another in a heartbeat. definatly a good truck to have.

 

go with the 5.9 , you will be wanting more power if you get the 5.2

 

x2 on checking for the oil for plenum. That's a common problem.

There are many people on here with both the 318 and 360 both very happy with their engines. As well as all trims/etc. I don't think there's much to stray from IMHO. Just make sure you find what you want. Obviously the 360 will have a bit more umph than the 318, but the 318's not bad either.

As far as driving it, I'd check everything I would on any other vehicle test drive.