I Have Questions!
I'm might be purchasing a used Ram and have a few questions I'm sure you all could help me answer. First off, it's a 1998 Ram 2500 SLT 4x4 Regular Cab with the 8.0L V10. It has a 3in suspension lift, BFG AT 285/75/16 tires, and a 4:10 posi. It has 49,000 miles and the seller is asking $9k.
My first question is, assuming I have a properly rated hitch, how much could this thing tow? I really don't plan on towing anything but I'm, a classic car nut so if I'm lucky enough to discover a barn find I'll need to tow the vechicle home. Secondly, I know that the 94-01 Rams are know for having automatic transmission issues. Is this also true of the Ram 2500? Does having the V10 affect the likely hood that I will have the transmission go out? Thirdly, when I go and check the truck out are they any things specificly that I should look for?
Also, gas mileage wise, what can I expect from the V10? I'm assuming that I could expect around 13-14mpg if I drive it lightly. Thanks for all the help guys!
My first question is, assuming I have a properly rated hitch, how much could this thing tow? I really don't plan on towing anything but I'm, a classic car nut so if I'm lucky enough to discover a barn find I'll need to tow the vechicle home. Secondly, I know that the 94-01 Rams are know for having automatic transmission issues. Is this also true of the Ram 2500? Does having the V10 affect the likely hood that I will have the transmission go out? Thirdly, when I go and check the truck out are they any things specificly that I should look for?
Also, gas mileage wise, what can I expect from the V10? I'm assuming that I could expect around 13-14mpg if I drive it lightly. Thanks for all the help guys!
1. You'll have no problem towing a classic car home. For the earlier years of the 2nd gen, the V10 Ram had the same (or slightly greater) towing capacity than the Diesels. You can easily tow 10,000lbs with the right equipment.
2. ALL vehicles with Auto Transmissions are prone to problems. That's my opinion on it. For all the problems you hear about, there are twice as many owners that don't have problems. I have 144,000 on my V10. The only transmission related problem it has is a leaky front seal. Best thing is to keep it serviced (change fluid etc.) and get a deep pan and a real temp. gauge for it.
3. Gas mileage is usually in the 10-12 range for unloaded highway driving. Some people see better mileage (I usually get 13-14). Some people see worse [:'(] If you don't go any larger with the tires, you should see at least 12 if you drive it lightly.
2. ALL vehicles with Auto Transmissions are prone to problems. That's my opinion on it. For all the problems you hear about, there are twice as many owners that don't have problems. I have 144,000 on my V10. The only transmission related problem it has is a leaky front seal. Best thing is to keep it serviced (change fluid etc.) and get a deep pan and a real temp. gauge for it.
3. Gas mileage is usually in the 10-12 range for unloaded highway driving. Some people see better mileage (I usually get 13-14). Some people see worse [:'(] If you don't go any larger with the tires, you should see at least 12 if you drive it lightly.



