Hello, as you can tell I am new to this site. I am looking at a 2003 dodge ram short wheel base, 4.7 v8 4x4, and my favorite part it is a manual transmission. It's actually a US truck and has 100,000miles on it. I am wondering if these are decent trucks, I just sold my 04 silverado had about 180 000 miles on her, which I loved but I live in the salt belt of Canada, and the rust got the best of her.

Is there anything I should look for when I check this truck out, are they bad for frames like the chevys are. Any input is appreciated, thanks!

 

If you really want a 4.7L get one with much lower miles....

Otherwise get a 5.7L Hemi or splurge for the 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel and you'll never regret it a day in your life.

 

Only reason I am looking at it, is because it is manual and the price is right. I don't think I would go after a hemi, to much of a gas pig, and the cummings are about 7000 dollars more then what I want to spend lol.

 

The Hemi is only available with an automatic in a 1500.

The main issues that I know of are that over time, the radiator starts clogging which causes the engint to get too hot. The 4.7 does not like to get overheated and will usually pop the head gaskets if not warp a head. If it stays cool and runs smooth, go for it. Any used vehicle is a crap shoot unless you know the previous owner and the maintenance history.