Hello, I'm new to this forum as well as owning a 1998 Dodge Ram 1500 Extended Cab SB 5.2L SLT Laramie. I just bought the truck from my Dad with 124,000 miles on it. He didn't care much for putting scratches and dings in it (it is a truck), but he took GREAT care of the truck as far as driving and maintenance wise. Everything has been maintained and replaced timely as it should be, spark plugs, oil changes, tranny fluid/flush, etc etc. I love it, although it does feel a bit lacking in power for a 5.2L stick shift. That could be because I'm used to driving a 94 Z28 around though.

I was first wondering what the SLT Larmie actually means? How does that differ from other 1500 trucks? And are there any common problems with these trucks I should know about? Also what are some good modifications I should start off for more power and better gas mileage? CAI and exhaust mods seems obvious, what besides that is a bang for the buck$? That's all I can think of for now. Thanks!!

 

SLT and Laramie are just options packages.

Common problems include the transmission, trac bar (if it's a 4x4), plenum gasket, and the limited slip rear differentials.

Exhaust mods aren't necessary. Headers yes, but the rest of the system can be left alone until you are more modded. Pick up a K&N FIPK and a throttle body from www.thefastman.com That will give you a good start.

By the way, more power and better gas mileage rarely go hand in hand [8D]

Welcome to DF!

 

yea you usually want to start getting it breathing and exhauling(sp) better. Cold air intake(k&N) throttle body(the fastman) headers( i like jba) and a cat back exhaust. or what i did is just take off the muffler and just run the cat. it sounds great. i also split into duals. looks and sounds great didnt rob hardly any low end torque. Yea those mods will incerease mileage by about 2-3 that is only if you can keep your foot out of it. which is very hard to do. hope this helps


BNB