I would like to say what's up to everyone, I'm new to this forum so I'm introducing myself. My name is Jeff, from Rochester, NY and just bought a 2008 Dodge Ram 1500 Sport about 2-months ago. So far I'm loving it (used to have a 2001 Ram 1500 Sport quite a while ago) and from what I have seen this forum is going to be very helpful.

Anyone think of any good first mods? I know intake, headers, exhaust, programmer, wheels, tires, etc... are normally the first things, but which will provide me with the best "bang for the buck"?

Here are a few quick shots I took of my Ram when I brought it home.

 

Welcome to the forum, nice truck! I generally start with new wheels n tires then exhaust. Thats just what i do on all my new vehicles. Id place my first mod bucks on intake and exhaust. HAPPY MODDING!!!

 

Most usually start with exhaust, intake & tuner in that order...

 

Thanks guys, good to be back in the truck world, sold a 2004 Subaru WRX to get this truck. I already put a drop in K&N panel filter in for now since I know they make a decent product, only problem is that I know the actual intake section on top of the manifold is the biggest issue with the intakes. Is there any place I can buy just the tube that runs from the filter box to the manifold? I thought I saw that AirRaid sells just the tube, could be wrong though.

As for the rest, I think I am going to get just a Magnaflow muffler and custom make an exhaust....trying for 3" inlet with a single 3" outlet and a "turn down" tip, that's it....any length restrictions I should be aware of (besides changing the exhaust note)?

Wheels and tires are a HUGE consideration for me as that's usually something I like to do first, just trying to decide on a wheel size. Had 305/70/16 on my old Ram and it looked awesome, but I know I can't use a 16" wheel on this truck, so maybe a 17" (although some fitment issues may come up) with what size tire?

 

First. welcome to the DF! It is very helpful.

In reference to the air intake tubes, I have seen them at places like AutoZone and Advance Auto Parts. They sell different pieces to construct your own cold air intake. So that may be an option. The Hemi hat is definitely restrictive. Have you looked inside of it? Jeez!

Welcome again...

 

17 inch is the bottom end, have you considered bead blasting the center spokes on your stock 20's and painting them? It would look great and be something different.
As for the intake i personally went with this unit:
http://www.mopar2u.com/20062007.html
Another cheap piece for looks:
http://www.solidbydesign.com/sbd/pro...x?fuelDoorID=3
http://www.solidbydesign.com/sbd/pro...x?fuelDoorID=2
http://www.solidbydesign.com/sbd/pro...x?fuelDoorID=1

 

How do you like the Mopar intake? I've always been skeptical of metal tubes for intakes due to heat soak (even though there are kits to wrap the tube up), so I was considering the K&N FIPK with the black plastic tube.

I honestly did consider painting my stock wheels but with the cost of tires for a 20" wheel, I'd rather get something smaller so when I do need to replace tires I can get away with spending 700-800 instead of 1100-1500. I'm definitely going with the Nitto Terra Grappler no matter what though, had them on my old truck and was VERY impressed.

 

I like the intake it seems to perform well however im no expert on them. K&N is great and very well known for their quality so its safe to say you would be happy going that route as well. As for wheels, when you decide what you want id get ahold of this guy, Andy: info@wheeldiscounters.com Ive bought several sets of rims from him at great prices even figuring in shipping costs.

 

Cool, thanks for the info.....do they have a website?

 

No website, i found the guy off ebay and contacted him directly. Id just tell him what i wanted and he shot me a price. Id search around to compare $ and he was priced right. Shoot him an email and ask if hes started a website since i last dealt with him, (about a year ago).