I'm looking at getting an 03 or 04 1500 or 2500 quad cab preferrably with a 6 speed manual.

What should I look for in gas engine selection as far as power, mileage and reliability?

 

Stay away from the 03's as they had problems with the valve springs breaking and even some of the early 04's. I think there are more tuning options with the 04's as well. Good luck.

 

Great info. Thanks.

 

I think this board will single-handedly destroy any remaining value of an 03 model.

Of all the problems ever posted in the history of DF, there are maybe 3-4 valve spring failures? Every time somebody mentions considering an 03, there are half a dozen posts telling them about the impending doom. It's a valid possibility but hardly something that knocks 90% of 03's off the road.

Now a failing blinker/wiper switch? That's a freakin' certainty!

If things are that bad maybe I should go trade this on a 300C SRT8 now before it blows up on me.

 

Not trying to destroy your trucks value John, that's why alot of people who post say that there have been problems or have had problems with the valve springs. Nobody says it will happen or it is certain to happen. Don't take it personally guy, I hope your truck runs till the end of time.

 

120,000 mi 2003 hemi, original valve springs. The only common problem I ever had was the warped front brakes. Oh and my dash panel up under the windshield finally cracked the other day.

 

somehow doesn't jive with

It's not just your post; it's every time somebody mentions they're considering an 03. I did my homework before buying a Ram and knew if I got an 03 it wasn't as "programmable" but I found such a clean truck I couldn't pass it up.

For something that people say is so prevalent we sure don't get many reported here.