so i finally sold my crappy/abused ram with crap load of problems (still was sad to let it go ) however im looking into getting another truck in better shape. i want to make a list of what should i look for and know maybe what could be wrong with the truck i would buy.

im mostly looking for a 96-01 probably somewhere around 4-6k.

I know for sure the plenum gasket would be first, but what else?


Maybe this thread is useless, but i just want to be informed before making another bad buy like i did with my previous truck, and maybe this could help out another lost soul out there

 

If it idles rough, if it consumes oil without a leak, look at the hoses under the engine bay to see if vacuum lines look cracked and old,check all power options on all switches, Check the AC and run it while test driving to check for wild vents. if its 4x4 check suspension parts for wear, tap on catalytic converter to see if there is rattling in it as they are expensive to replace.Check to see if sliding door behind you the lock is broken (little plastic clip). All i can think about for now

 

Make sure the transmission shifts when/where it's supposed to and make sure the torque converter locks

 

Check the brake lines for the rear brakes.

Sloppy steering.

 

"what to look at/for when buying a 96-01 ram?" A Ford ! LOL JK

Make sure the 4wd works if it is one.

 

Yeah make sure the 4 wheel drive works even if the owner says it does.
Also check for oil leaks around the front timing cover (front main seal) and where the engine and trans meet (rear main seal)

Check for any wierd ticks, rattles or squeeks, while driving

 

Mostly just all the normal stuff, but as far as 2nd Gen Ram specific.

Make sure trans shifts well and generally works as it should
Check brake line leaking by the gas tank
Front end parts, wheel bearings, u-joints, ball joints
Engine misfire. Could be a number of things causing it such as bad plenum and distributor cap/rotor.
Check the air conditioning if you like your AC. Evaporator likes to leak and isn't cheap or easy to fix.
Sloppy steering.

Some of these aren't a big deal and/or are easy fixes, but just some common issues.

 

If I would buy another 94-01 ram 1500, i'd check down the tb to see if the plenum is blown, check ujoints, if the 4x4 works, a/c works, all the options work, rust, and make sure it shifts smoothly


I'm selling my truck for within that price range if you're interested...

 

Thanks guys for all the info i will create a list in my first post to be easier to look at. I see some of you mentioned the brake lines, i see 2nd gen rams with snapped/bad brake lines all day.

 

common issues ive had with mine:
-ball joints (ive replaced all mine twice now)
-good look over of the front suspension. ive had issues with pitman arm and tie rod ends. tie rod ends especially with my larger wheels.
-plenum plate (check oil in throttle body)
-always check the CAT
-i wouldnt be too worried about the engine ticking. mine has done it forever. plenum fix supposed to help remedy that though

guys above seem to have covered everything else. if it steers well and drives straight, should be good