Hey all, I'm new to this forum, and new to Dodge trucks. I'm usually a Chevrolet/GMC guy (I know, I know ). Anyways, I'm looking at a 94 Dodge Ram 1500 4X4 standard cab long box to buy as a cheap farm/work truck. Truck has the 318 engine with a rebuilt transmission. Supposedly around 124 000 miles on it. Asking price $1000 in as-is condition.

Just wondering what your advice is on this truck. What were common problems or complaints on this year/model? ie. what specific areas should I target when examining the truck? On average, will these trucks last much more than 124 000 miles (only need to really get a couple years out of it). Any and all advice is much appreciated.

 

welcome to DF. i think any truck that runs and drives is worth $1000, so test drive it HARD for about 15 minutes with lots of acceleration and up/down shifting. if it shifts ok - buy it. if it won't shift, or shudders, or starts out in 3rd gear, or no reverse, then you're looking at a 1500-2000 rebuild and then you got 3000 in the damn thing. so if the transmission is good, buy it, if the transmission is bad, then don't pay more than $400 for it as a parts truck and only if you need a parts truck.

they're stout trucks.
the transmissions suck.
the 4wd is touchy and generally needs a vacuum line repair.
there is a hidden gasket deep in the plenum that usually leaks and needs repair to eliminate excessive oil use.

 

/\/\/\ he basically covered most of it, except that they love front ends. wheel bearings ball joints, tie rods, rod ends steering boxes. If its just a farm truck it might not weigh in too much on your decission.