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How good is dodge's V-6?

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Old Oct 5, 2007 | 08:14 PM
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Default How good is dodge's V-6?

I own a 99 F-150 with the 4.2. I've put 180,000 on it with almost no problems. With my girlfriend starting classes soon I need a 2nd vehicle. I'm considering a 2003 Ram with the 3.7. It's got 65,000 on it, but seems to be in great condition. I drove it for about an hour today(a friend of the family owns it.) He's only owned it for about 6 months so I have no idea how the engine has been maintained before that.

My question is, what kind of reliability do the 3.7's have? Are there any common little quirks I should be on the look out for? I am in the process of searching the forum I just figured I might as well ask also. I'm not a "ford guy." I just have driven this one so long I'm not that informed.

Thanks in advance for any response. I appreciate it.

PS. I noticed there was a guy who posted a thread about his tranny going to crap after relatively low miles. What's your opinion on the tranny's? My ford tranny is srtating to get a little shaky so I definitely want to avoid more of them problems.
 
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Old Oct 5, 2007 | 08:28 PM
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Default RE: How good is dodge's V-6?

Not sure about quirks but the 6's are just as reliable as the 8's. As long as it is a magnum they are all great motors
 
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Old Oct 7, 2007 | 10:06 AM
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Default RE: How good is dodge's V-6?

2 different dodge mechanics told me the 3.7L is the most reliable in the Ram lineup. Very dependable motor. However it doesn't get the best mpg and hp is way down. But you can count on it to get you there. The manuel is more reliable than the Dodge auto's.
 
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Old Oct 8, 2007 | 06:51 PM
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Default RE: How good is dodge's V-6?

I have a 2005 QC V6. Its an automatic and Ive had it for about a year and a half now. It not once has ever broken downon me, and thankfully the mileage is a bit better than what the V8 gets. But in all essence, there isnt much difference between the 8 and 6. I love the v6 frankly and I think that there is no reason not to buy it. You get mileage, decent power and the happiness of owning a full size truck. Not some tiny Toyota Tacoma or anything like sub full size truck.
 
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Old Oct 9, 2007 | 08:03 AM
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Default RE: How good is dodge's V-6?

I won't say the 3.7V6 is bad
but even Dodge admits that it not up to the level
of the Nissan 3.5 V6
or the Mitsu V6s that Dodge has used.

The fuel economy per lb/hr-hr and max hp output per cubic inch
are nothing to praise on the 3.7V6

Dodge is replacing the 3.7V6 in the coming model year.
 
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Old Oct 9, 2007 | 08:11 AM
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Default RE: How good is dodge's V-6?

its an ok truck.. should be reliable and all but persoally in these trucks the smallest engine I would reccomend is the 4.7L i heard good things about them.
 
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Old Oct 9, 2007 | 08:14 AM
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Default RE: How good is dodge's V-6?

Wait for the 2009.
 
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Old Oct 16, 2007 | 02:50 PM
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Default RE: How good is dodge's V-6?

ORIGINAL: kristopher

I own a 99 F-150 with the 4.2. I've put 180,000 on it with almost no problems. With my girlfriend starting classes soon I need a 2nd vehicle. I'm considering a 2003 Ram with the 3.7. It's got 65,000 on it, but seems to be in great condition. I drove it for about an hour today(a friend of the family owns it.) He's only owned it for about 6 months so I have no idea how the engine has been maintained before that.

My question is, what kind of reliability do the 3.7's have? Are there any common little quirks I should be on the look out for? I am in the process of searching the forum I just figured I might as well ask also. I'm not a "ford guy." I just have driven this one so long I'm not that informed.

Thanks in advance for any response. I appreciate it.

PS. I noticed there was a guy who posted a thread about his tranny going to crap after relatively low miles. What's your opinion on the tranny's? My ford tranny is srtating to get a little shaky so I definitely want to avoid more of them problems.
I dont think anyone has really said yes you can get 180k out of the dodge v6. I know you dont plan on getting a new 09 or you wouldnt be shoping in the 03 v6(5-7k range). I'll say I havent seen anything glaring mentioned except the auto trans. That seems to be a problem aith all of the big 3.
. I'm considering going with 2wd manual trans to avoid and CAD 4wd or auto trans issues. My main concern is reliability.
 
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Old Oct 16, 2007 | 08:00 PM
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Default RE: How good is dodge's V-6?

I get rid Of mine 3.7 in 3.5 More years then back to a Truck with some power to it.

It's sad when the 4.7 V-8 gets better HWY MPG than the 3.7, I also have read some get better or the same with the 5.7 Hemi with MSD.

It will be either the SRT 10 or CTD 4X4 MegaCab, We see when the time comes But I sure miss having a fast Car or Truck.
 
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Old Oct 16, 2007 | 09:24 PM
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Default RE: How good is dodge's V-6?

i hear ya marv. im just gettin out of the truck markey all together, trucks are not built to go fast, unless its an srt 10 or lighting. im just gonna wait till spring and get an srt4.
 
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