Hi all, I'm new to this site and really like what I see, seems like a wealth of information which is what I was hoping to find! (I'll post a bio later in the "New Member" section)

So I'm thinking about buying a '99 Ram 1500 quad cab 4x2 with the auto trans. and 5.9 V8 and am wondering if this is a wise purchase, IE are there any things in particular I should be aware of? I've already read about the bad brakes and have heard about some trans issues but am not sure if that was just certain years or what. The MPG also worries me a bit but I also realize this is a full size truck and it won't be a dialy driver, just a weekend warrior so I'm not too concerned about that.

Here's some background info. on the truck I'm pretty sure I'm going to buy, as I said it's a '99 Ram 1500, has 61,000 miles on it, used mostly around town, hauled a small ATV trailer occasionally (probably less than 1,000 miles total) stock wheel and tire size, never wrecked, etc. My Dad bought it new in '99 (and is the current owner) he recently replaced it with a new truck and asked if my wife & I would be interested in the Dodge since we do a lot of camping and off-roading with our ATV's and dunebuggy. Upgrading to the Dodge would allow us to haul more of our "toys" but am just wondering if I'm asking for trouble buying this year/model Ram. Any input is appreciated, Thanks!

--Kevin

 

I think you'll be pretty happy with it. Yes the tranny's are a sore spot, but if you maintain it well, i.e. tranny flush and fill and band adjustment yearly, watching the tranny temp when hauling, you will find it will perform pretty well for you. Being your truck is a 2wd as well, you should see decent mileage, and there are plenty of modifications you can do to improve numbers.... Good luck!!

 

yeah i was real happy with the purchase of my 00 ram back in march of 06,an im still happy with it,solid trucks ,just take care of it an keep all fuilds changed an full

 

Thanks for the feedback guys, I'm going to pick it up later today! Taking it on it's first road trip next weekend (hauling our VW-based dunebuggy). Thanks again!

--Kevin

 

Definitely check to see if it has an external transmission cooler. If it has the factory tow package the cooler should be between the radiator and the condenser. If it doesn't have one, I would suggest installing an aftermarket cooler. pm me with your e-mail address and I will send you a file with how I did mine.
I wouldn't expect more than 12-13 mpg. It might do better - but that would be a bonus......