Looking to buy another Ram, want to stay below $5000. Which of the 3rd Gens have the fewest problems.
Currently looking at a 2003 1500. 4.7, auto. any issues with that truck?

 

Many threads on here about the 4.7. 03 is an odd duck. It was the transition year.

 

I thought 2002 was the transition year

 

Used 03 4.7 engine is a huge huge money pit waiting to happen! I'd be looking for an 04/05 Hemi.
Good Luck

 

Not for $5K, unfortunately.

 

gonna be high miles for the 04/05 but they are out there

 

As said..... Go for the 04-05 Hemi but I do have the 03 Hemi and if you dont want lots of high performance mods on the engine for which there is little to no support, the 03 Hemi is good.
Just replace all the engine valve springs and she will be fine and probably within your budget.
Dont want to upset the 4.7guys but as said........ Money pit.
Al.

 

4.7s had all sortsa expensive problems. Go for the '04-'05 Hemi.

 

There are 04, 05's out there with high miles that still run fine. My 05 5.7 is working on 221K right now. The biggest problems are more related to rust belt destruction than anything else. The engine and drivetrain are in great shape. (6sp stick)

 

I have a '05 4.7 and never had any major problems. it has 130000 on the clock and still going strong! It has done everything a hemi can do,sometimes even better. it comes down to preference. If you want a 4.7 the get one,If you want a hemi then get that. Don't let these neh sayers try to talk bad about the 4.7 and talk you out if it. sure there are bad stories about the 4.7 but also keep in mind there are the same amount of stories for the hemi.