im looking at buying a 97 dodgeram 1500 from a guy. I was told that the tranny worked fine and one day it just quit. the truck has a 318 and auto tranny. The guy said it started right up and ran perfect it just wouldnt move. however while looking at the truck i had the man start it and i discovered a knocking like noice when it first stared for about 25 seconds it sounded to me like it was down around the tranny and fly wheele. I would love to purchace the truck the body is perfect but im a little worried it may be more than just a tranny can anyone help me please! and thank u !

 

At this stage, it would be worth it to take to a shop of your choice and pay a nominal inspection fee to diagnose that. That will give you confidence. It's on your nickel, not a big commitment and you can direct what to diagnose i.e., engine/tranny.

edit: thats what id do if it were me. also, take pictures before you take it in, then after. Just so you have a visual benchmark of everything.