I have yet to buy my Ram. I was reading an ad for a 1997 ram 1500. It said that it was front discs and rear drums.

Is this true? if so, what year did they start putting on rear discs.

Can the drums be upgraded to discs?


Also, what should be done to beef up the tranny?

 

The 1500 didn't get 4 wheel discs until 2002. The 2500 and 3500 heavy duty models got them in 2001.

 

I think 80-90% of your stopping power is from the front wheels anyhow. I wouldnt worry too much about the drums in the back. They work well on my 2000 SB Ram.

As for your tranny. Buy the manual. Some members swear by the fact they have had no problems with the automatic but I feel most members in this forum will support you buying the stick. And if you tow alot its a must.

 

What was said about the brakes is true. Stick with the drums. The only time they contribute a lot to braking power is when you're towing/hauling. Running empty they don't do a whole lot of braking.

As far as the tranny....a larger aux. cooler, deep transmission pan, decent synthetic fluid, a real temperature gauge, and a shift kit are good ways to improve your transmission. An auto will last just as long as a manual if it is taken care of properly And sometimes even when it's not [8D]