Hello, I am new to this forum but new to these trucks. I have owned a 94 3/4 LWB, a 95 Reg Cab 1 Ton and an 05 Crew Cab 3/4. My newest acquisition may have been a mistake.

I bought a 97 1 ton, automatic with 168k on the odometer. The truck has some small issues, but I have a couple that I need to ask about as I have never run into them before.

1. The transmission appears to have been rebuilt, but will not downshift when you are running down the highway and mash the throttle down. Any suggestions here?

2. The turbo seems much quieter than any of my previous trucks, is this a concern?

3. The rearend has some slop in it (this may be an issue for non power train). Any suggestions there.

I really need to get this thing up to snuff so any suggestions would be appreciated. I am very well versed in gas engines, but I have to admit even though I have owned several diesels, I am pretty ignorant of them.

Thanks,

Todd
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1. Check the TV cable adjustment. Procedure is in the factory service manual, available for download in the FAQ section. (It's the 01 manual, but, procedure should be the same. There is also a 96 version available here somewhere....)

2. Notta clue. Might want to install a boost gauge, just to be sure it is working properly.

3. How much slop? 2 or 4 wd?

 

Thanks I will check the FAQ section for that adjustment. As far as slop it is a 2wd. I have not had the cover off yet but if you were looking at it from the front I would estimate about 15-20 degrees of play. I am not sure what the ring and pinion spec are but I am betting it is way loose.

 

That's actually not to bad...... won't hurt to have a look, and change the fluid though. (keep in mind, the fluid smells horrid, and when you are done, so will you..... your wife will want nothing to do with you until after your shower. )

 

Sounds good. I searched for the 01 manual but did not find it. If someone has a link that would be great.

 

in the faq's.

https://dodgeforum.com/forum/2nd-gen...-gen-rams.html

 

Thanks!