Hey guys, just joined here last week. I picked up a 03 Ram QC w/ the 5.7L HEMI and loving it. New to the truck world though.

It has 100k miles and the previous owner has never done any "major" maintenance on it except for regular oil/filter changes, brakes/rotors replaced last year along w/ a new alternator. Didn't mention anything else so I'm not sure what he left out, if anything.

When I bought it, I got it checked out at a local shop and they confirmed that it was in great running condition but had a few suggestions:

- Transmission flush
- New plugs
- Rear diff service

Do you guys agree? Anything else to add to the list? Thanks in advance.

 

This is my opinion, some may agree or disagree here it goes lol...
I would change the plugs, I believe you need 16. This should give you a smoother idle and better gas-milage, acceleration etc.
Service the rear differential. I believe you will need the anti-slip additive. It was $9.99 @ my dealership. You can either drain and refill or you can take the plate off wipe out metal shavings if you have any etc. Any service is better then leaving it alone.
Do not flush the transmission. Change the fluid by doing a drain and refill. Change the main sump filter and the cooler return spin on filter. I have two filters, I dont know if you do.
While your at it, some odd things that I would do include: changing the windshield wipers, airfilter, oil and filter with quality oil maybe synthetic, change the PCV valve, coolant flush, thermostat and serpentine belt. The belt was like $25 at my dealer and t stat was $42 I think.
These are some of the things I would do if I purchased a truck with 100k.

 

Oh the mysteries of used cars. I really hope you're not on the original plugs, that would be the first thing I would change.

Then change all your fluids. Oil, differentials, transmission, radiator, brake. With the differential I would suggest pulling the cover to inspect the rear end, not just drain and refill.

Change serpentine belt, and inspect all your hoses. 100k its time to change all filters.

Give the throttle body a good cleaning.

There's a lot more I'd be looking at but that's a good start.

 

Speaking of changing Hemi plugs; what time is involved for the average D.I.Y.er to change complete set? Looks like they are well buried.

 

Plugs and every filter and fluid in the thing, with synthetic if you can afford it. Also remove and clean the throttle body!!!
Inspect every hose and everything else you can get to...

 

plug change

3/8" ratchet, swivel head plug socket (sears), 10mm socket (coils), 2" extension

2 hrs

clean the throttle body too while you're in there

 

Thanks guys. I have an appointment set up at a different, recommended/trustworthy shop. The mechanic basically said the same thing and he would do the necessary things (tranny drain, plugs, rear diff, and also look at all the other fluids if it's needed, PCV, TB, etc)

 

Use the friction modifier in the diff only if it's LSD. All that is good advice. Guess I'd suggest a Seafoam treatment, too. Be careful with a tranny "flush". If you do it at all, make sure it isn't back-flushed. I'd say skip it and just do a drop 'n' drain.

Oh, and welcome aboard.

 

Well...I'm at the shop now. Got all of the regular maintenance things looked at. Upon servicing the rear differential, they came across the dreaded c-clip problem. They're gonna put it back together so I can go back home and then call me to let me know prices.

I searched and read a bit of threads about it in general, but in my current frustration could you just humor my questions w/ some advice?

1.) Is it really 'dangerous' to drive the truck in its current state? Was hoping to drive up to VA for a graduation this weekend.

2.) They recommend full replacement. My options are:
a.) Brand new, factory diff & housing = $$$$$
b.) Sourced, used diff & housing = $$$
c.) Sourced, used open rear end, no LSD = $
- How much $ could this range from?

Thanks guys.

 

Forgot to mention that it's not a 4x4. Also, the housing is eaten up so it needs full replacement.

Just thinking about it, I would probably do option B and keep the LSD option as it is very useful. Just need to get them to source the right low mileage donor. Unless of course you guys recommend some other method?

Main thing is, should I keep the truck at home this weekend or can I still take it on a trip?