Hey guys. I am currently in the works of buying a used 2006 Dakota. It is a 4X4 quad cab auto 4.7 with 58,000 miles on it, all power options, sun roof, and probably some other stuff I didn't notice. I am going to be talking to my bank on Monday to find out some more things before finalizing the deal, as I am sure I will be getting it.

I am going to purchase the extended bumper to bumper warrenty, which the salesman said would cover anything on the truck, and the dealership also offers a lifetime engine warrenty on ALL used vehicles.

My question is is there anything I should watch out for in these trucks? It will be used mainly for daily commuting to work and back, but will also serve as my travel rig and tow vehicle for my Ranger when completed. I was very impressed with the way the truck handled while test driving it, and hope that it will last me when/if I get it.

Thanks for any opinions. If I get it, I will be posting pictures ASAP, because I am a photo *****.

 

the frt suspensions on these trucks is pretty bad, most of us have switched to the rancho series struts, there is a link somewhere, i have an 05 4.7 that i race on a regular basis, have had no major problems so far at 72000 miles. they are a fun truck to drive

 

Yeah superdak is right the front suspension seems to be the only major thing this line of trucks could have issues with. Having the balljoints, struts, inner tie rods and outer tie rod joints checked before purchase would be the best thing.

Listen for a obvious ticking somewhere in the valve train, some of us have had this condition, and I think its actually a bulletin at Dodge.

Other then that I cant think of anything else to look/listen for?

 

Thanks for the info, guys. The leaking windshield may be the main issue that I'll have to address with the truck, as I do live in Montana, so if we get a huge snow storm in the winter time, I may have quite a puddle in the truck.

The truck seemed to drive extremely well when I test drove it with no vibrations or anything (then again, max speed was about 60). I will have to crawl under the truck and take a look on Monday.

 

Try to look at it when you can cold start the motor. If you hear "marbles in the engine" for a minute or so at start-up, that seems to be the hydrolic valve lash adjusters leaking down(lifters sort of). It seems to be relatively common, and an easy fix as they sit on top of the head. It's nice knowledge going in so you don't freak out the first time hear the noise. Most seem to think it's harmless just annoying (as long as it goes away after a few minutes).

As Eric stated, also remember there is a rear axle TSB if the back end starts bucking on the highway.

 

Thanks for the info, guys.

Here is a quick picture of the truck I took today:



If I get it tomorrow, expect better and more pictures, LOL!

I only got a couple more questions.

Gas mileage isn't a huge concern, but what are you guys getting out of them? If I can fair better then 14 combined city/highway, I'll be happy. Also, last summer when gas prices were way up, what was it costing you to fill up? $75?

And this has probably been covered about a half a million times, but will 265-75/16's fit without a lift?

 

When gas was 4.10/gal I think it cost me about $90 to fill up. What is our tank size 22 gallons?

I was running 265/75 R16 without a lift for about a year, it never rubbed. However, some that have tried it reported rubbing, so I think brand of tires may vary the results. But I would think that I would rub on big bumps and moderate flex, but I never do. I have the steel 16x7 rims.

Heres a few pics with the 265/75s on a stock suspension:

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