Looking to buy another Ram, want to stay below $5000. Which of the 2nd Gens have the fewest problems.

 

I would buy at least a 96 on up. Pre 96 is OBD1. The later ones had issues with the blend doors. They had a lot of the same issues because they didn't change all that much over the years. You are in the rust belt so look for it at the bottom of the doors rockers and wheel arches. I have two 96's if that sways your decision.

 

I think they all have about the same problems. Blown plenums, cracked dashes, rust, driver seat fabric tearing, clearcoat peeling, transmission failures, etc. As stated, find one with the least rust and 96 or newer.

 

Can you clarify which years you were talking about with the blend doors, please?

Thanks

 

I believe 97 or 98 was the first year for the blend door motors. If i'm wrong someone will correct me. Heater treater says 95 but i know up to 96 had cable operated doors. I wouldn't let this sway your decision.

http://www.heatertreater.net/magento...ram-95-02.html

 

Electrically operated blend door started in 2000. Up until they, they were all cable operated. (and all the other doors vacuum operated.)

 

PERSONALLY I would look at a 2000+. Dealing with little issues like vacuum doors and such is petty and minor to me when you get the pros of dual piston brake calipers, tuning cabability, OBD2.

 

Electronic blend doors began in 1999. Already had to fix mine. Not a fun chore.

All of the "problems" of the 2nd gens are present through all years, i.e. plenum gasket, track bar, trans issues, steering box, etc. If you like 4 doors, look at 98+. If you want to ever tune: 96+. If you want to add a 180 tstat, stay under 2000 or you'll throw codes. Lots of pinging and deathflash issues from 99+ but better brakes 2000+. Upgraded dash, interior and mirros in 98. Backlit odometer, electronic blend door and rotary light switch in 99. Off road Edition in 2000-01 with 4.10 gears. Sports got new fascia in 99.

Pick what you like and go with it.

 

What makes you say this?

 

Newer trucks seem to be more sensitive to it. The 90's variety rarely complain about it.