Hey all - i'm in the market for a Dodge 2500 to pull my fifth wheel. I'm looking to spend about $10k and need 4x4. It looks like i've got three or four engine options - 6 cyl diesel, diesel turbo, gas v8 and v10. What mileage could I expect on the hiway (w/out the fifth wheel) with 4x4 and the different motors?

I've heard the auto tranny's on some of the Dodge trucks can go out, any other issues I should look out for?

Thanks!

 

CUMMINS ! Thats my next one. Add a SC for up to 500 HP.

 

Since you have 10k to spend, you will be looking at a 2nd gen Ram with a Cummins and 5 speed manual. The 47RE auto trannies are weak and usually don't last past 120k miles before needing a rebuild. This will be especially true if you start towing a 5th wheel. The 24 valve Cummins (1998.5 +) will net you 15-18 mpg empty and 10-12 towing.

If you want a 3rd gen (2003 to current) Ram then you will be looking at 2003 and 2004 Hemi 2500's. I love mine but only get 8.5 mpg towing our camper and 12 mpg empty if babied, 10.5-11 mpg hot rodded.

 

i was under the assuption that diesels got better gas mileage than gas? Is this wrong is this just not the case in the dodge trucks?

 

They do, until they are required to put the emissions crap on them. I have a buddy with a 2001 ford power stroke f-250 with straight exhaust, he has a lift with 35" tires and still gets 22mpg. THe newest trucks, like the 2007+ get the worst because of the Cats, muffler, DPF, and whatever else there putting on. But in 2010, CA is requiring that any diesel truck HAS to put a DPF filter so It can pass emissions. That is why my dad is holding off on buying a older diesel.

 

Wow- that mileage is pretty bad. What if I spend a bit more and get a 2003 -doesn't that come with a 6 cyl diesel and 6 cyl diesel turbo?

 

Mileage is ONLY bad with the gas engines. The Cummins WILL net you much better mileage. If you can spend between $15k and $20k, you can get a low mileage 2003-2005 Ram 2500 with the Cummins, 4x4 and 4 doors. You will get between 16 - 18 mpg empty and 10 - 13 mpg towing. These are combined driving. If all you do is highway then the numbers will be a little higher.