Hi, I'm new to Dodges, (life-long Ford guy) and to the forum, but am shopping for a 2500 4x4 to trade my F150 on for towing purposes. Found 2 that I can't decide between, 1st is a 05 4x4SLT Crewcab CTD with 67K miles for $27K, 2nd is a 06 2500 4x4 Crew Sport with the Hemi w 60K, 6" lift and 35's for $20K. Both auto's
Is there any difference in the drivetrain between the 2 other than motor? I read on here that the Hemi "probably" had a 10.5 rear vs. a Dana 70 on the CTD, that sound right?
And from searching, it seems that the only real problematic areas I should watch out for are front end component wear(bj's etc..) Anything else?

I have never owned a diesel, but would LOVE one, just not sure if I need it. I tow a 7000# trail rig a handful of times a year and thats it, only a daily commuter the rest of the time. A 1/2 ton truck will pull it, but probably not the best thing for it, so figured it's a good time to step up. The Hemi absolutely impressed me, it seemed to have tons of power down low, even with the 35"s, and I certainly like the price better, but can't decide, so help me out. Thanks

 

the lift and tires arnt going to do you any good for the towing, the trans will be different between the two, and im unsure if its still this way, but it used to be that the gas 2500's had lighter duty axles front and rear as well as t-cases, the cummins will defintly have at least a dana 70 or 80, and take care of the load better with better MPG's all around

 

Go with the 05 CTD you will love it. I believe the diesel with have AAM 11.5 rear end, at least thats what under mine.
The 06 Hemi with lift, would be fun for running around town, but wouldn't want to tow with it IMO.

 

yes the diesel most likely has the american axle 11.5" rear end and the diesel will offer more torque for towing purposes.
hemi has the 10.5" american axle
Hemi has the 545rfe transmission
cummins has the 48re transmission
heavier duty trans in the cummins as well with a duty rating of 8

 

thanks guys, but I have to say my decision hasn't gotten much easier, especially since my bank told me today that loan value on the CTD is only $25K. But I will decide tomorrow one way or another.

 

thats right , i forgot they switched to the aam's in the third gens

 

well I bought the 05 CTD and love it! you will probably see alot of me on here now. Thanks for all the info guys

 

congrats on coming over to the dark side... when can we see some pics?

 

Yes I did, funny thing is though, I have 3 other friends who were die hard ford guys, all 3 of them now own CTD's. I'll shoot some pics today.

 

Here she is, nothing fancy, your normal stripped SLT. But it does have a sunroof and power seat, the only one I looked at with those options and no leather. I have ordered a paintable grill (I hate chrome!), mats, vent visors, and a few decals(they will add at least 80 HP!). Next week will be a leveling kit and new Bilsteins. I'm either going to bed line those ugly step bars, or order some better looking black ones, haven't decided yet. And I have to get some cab lights for the top, I have always wanted a truck with those!
And here are couple pics of what it will be towing.