Looking at a new Ram
R.I.P. Dusty (Retired Moderator
Joined: Dec 2003
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From: Alamosa, Colorado (200 yards from the Rio Grande)
RE: Looking at a new Ram
As long as your mods don't directly lead to the failure of any other parts covered by the warranty, you'll be OK. There's been a lot of questions about this with the different Stage upgrades to the SRT-4...[sm=smiley4.gif]
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RE: Looking at a new Ram
Okay, my plans just got changed a little. I received my income tax and paid off almost all my credit card debt. So now i am going to have to wait for my credit score or whatever to catch up. So w/ more time on my hands to go drive, i've actually been looking into quad cabs w/ the 4.7 and the hemi, st, slt, and starting to like the lonestar package on them. It just so happens the town i moved into a year ago seems like everyone here drives dodge pickups, so i've spoke w/ alot of people about their trucks. From alot of the 94-01 owners, I have been told they love their truck, the engine and drivetrain are great. But that the interior and exterior stuff just falls apart. I even spoke w/ a guy that had a 99 1500 v6 that said his whole dash fell out of his truck right after the warranty went out and was out alot of $$$ when it was all said and done. SO.......... , for all the dodge lovers here. Please try defend the Dodge name, and convince me to believe that if I do purchase a ram, its not going to fall apart w/ proper care. THanks, and love this site, you people are really helpful!
Joined: Mar 2004
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RE: Looking at a new Ram
Hey blakehodges83..... I own a 1999 dodge ram 4x4 bought it a few years ago i only had one complaint the trannie went a year later but after i got it fixed man these trucks smoke ford......... And they drive like a mans truck should (NO PUN TO THE LADYS).... I plan on adding headers and duels and a k&N air filter and all the fun things that go with having a truck lol Ive owned chevys and fords this is my first dodge and i love it i will never part with it NEVER!!! awsome trucks lol can you tell i love dodge now hahahaha.
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RE: Looking at a new Ram
This conversation might throw sparks, but thats what makes this stuff enjoyable. From my experience, Ford makes one heck of a tough truck, but more and more dodge is playing a big role. And since 99, chevy hasn't caught my eye at all. You all might run me outta here b/c of this, but I used to and still kinda feel the way about Ford, as you do Dodge. But when it comes time for you to spend the $$$ on a new truck, you'd be crazy not to open your eyes to the competition. And it just so happens its the first year model for the new F-150, makes me leery as heck, and I think they just want too dang much for a 1/2 ton pickup. So for the first time in my life i consider a Dodge. And to my surprise i'm impressed. I started out looking at spending only around $15-16k on a truck. Now i'm thinking i can get a decked out Dodge for $22k that in Ford would cost $30-32k. Believe me, everytime I look at a Dodge I feel like a traitor, but i look at the price i've been quoted and I start getting that **** eating grin. Ford trucks will always be a stout truck, but this year they are too stout for my wallet so far.
R.I.P. Dusty (Retired Moderator
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 24,471
Likes: 0
From: Alamosa, Colorado (200 yards from the Rio Grande)
RE: Looking at a new Ram
Ford makes a good product, I've owned several. But you're right about the first model year thing, I've never bought a new car or truck the first year it was introduced. You're just asking for problems. Dodge trucks have a cost/value ratio that is very hard to beat.
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 23
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From: Wichita, Kansas
RE: Looking at a new Ram
Welcome to the forum, Blake.
At the risk of repeating myself (I posted this at my old stompin’ grounds last year), here was my initial impression of an ’03 Ram:
Today, I’m a proud owner of my first DaimlerChrysler product. And even though it’s early, everything I’ve experienced thus far indicates that it certainly may not be the last.
A 2003 Dodge Ram 1500 Regular-Cab Short-Bed 4WD Offroad sits in my driveway now, and I have absolutely no regrets.
None.
Let me tell you a little something about this motor, Blake. It kicks major ***. Even stock, these powerplants produce copious amounts of high-rev pucker factor. And check this out: This Hemi displaces 5.7 liters, precisely the same volume as the engine in my former ride, a ’95 pre-Vortec 5.7-liter Chevy… but the Hemi produces almost twice the horsepower!
Add to the brute strength of this beast the fact that my truck’s previous owner installed a very healthy, very vocal performance muffler and a set of 305/17 MT/R’s and mister, you’ve got yourself one awesome rig.
Or should I say my credit union does. I promised to take care of it for â€em, so as a bonus, they’re lettin’ me drive it around during the day, and park it at my house every night! Such a deal!
If you’re anything like me, you’re gonna seriously like your new Dodge, man. I’ve been partial to The General for many years, but that all changed on the first day I had the privilege of Driving Miss Hemi.
At the risk of repeating myself (I posted this at my old stompin’ grounds last year), here was my initial impression of an ’03 Ram:
Believe it or not, I recently took the opportunity to test drive an '03 Dodge Ram w/ The Hemi.
I am VERY impressed. 'Friend o' mine at work says, "Take it to lunch, today."
"Okay. Where're we goin'?"
As he hands me the keys, says, "I brought my lunch. You go ahead."
"Are you MeNTaL!?!"
"I'm serious. Just go."
So I went.
And let me testify unto YOU, my brethren... once you experience The Hemi, ye shall achieve the large wood, and your heart rate will increase by, oh, AT LEAST EIGHTY BEATS/MINUTE!!
I think the thing that pisses me off the most is the fact that said motor has the same displacement as mine ('95 Silverado), yet it has roughly TWICE the HP. This motor pulls off the line with AUTHORITAH!, and sounds damned good doin' it.
If you have weak bowels or a heart condition, you should avoid The Hemi AT - ALL - COSTS!!
Needless to say, I never ate lunch that day. Why waste time EATing when I could be DRIVING'? This was a 2003 Ram with the "Lone Star" package: 20" rims, four-speed automatic, Hemi, Quad Cab, traction control, two-wheel drive. The truck drove like a bat. It is large and it is phat. Brakes are excellent when compared to mine, and I've even had new ROTORS installed about a couple thousand miles ago. But, then again, I don't have four wheel disk brakes, either. Seat was comfortable; gauges well placed; mirrors are kinda big, little road noise; adrenaline-inducing exhaust note on progressive throttle inputs; intuitive climate controls; acceptable styling; reasonable fit & finish.
In summation, I can say that The Hemi is an awe-inspiring powerplant indeed.
Trust me.
I am VERY impressed. 'Friend o' mine at work says, "Take it to lunch, today."
"Okay. Where're we goin'?"
As he hands me the keys, says, "I brought my lunch. You go ahead."
"Are you MeNTaL!?!"
"I'm serious. Just go."
So I went.
And let me testify unto YOU, my brethren... once you experience The Hemi, ye shall achieve the large wood, and your heart rate will increase by, oh, AT LEAST EIGHTY BEATS/MINUTE!!
I think the thing that pisses me off the most is the fact that said motor has the same displacement as mine ('95 Silverado), yet it has roughly TWICE the HP. This motor pulls off the line with AUTHORITAH!, and sounds damned good doin' it.
If you have weak bowels or a heart condition, you should avoid The Hemi AT - ALL - COSTS!!
Needless to say, I never ate lunch that day. Why waste time EATing when I could be DRIVING'? This was a 2003 Ram with the "Lone Star" package: 20" rims, four-speed automatic, Hemi, Quad Cab, traction control, two-wheel drive. The truck drove like a bat. It is large and it is phat. Brakes are excellent when compared to mine, and I've even had new ROTORS installed about a couple thousand miles ago. But, then again, I don't have four wheel disk brakes, either. Seat was comfortable; gauges well placed; mirrors are kinda big, little road noise; adrenaline-inducing exhaust note on progressive throttle inputs; intuitive climate controls; acceptable styling; reasonable fit & finish.
In summation, I can say that The Hemi is an awe-inspiring powerplant indeed.
Trust me.
Today, I’m a proud owner of my first DaimlerChrysler product. And even though it’s early, everything I’ve experienced thus far indicates that it certainly may not be the last.
A 2003 Dodge Ram 1500 Regular-Cab Short-Bed 4WD Offroad sits in my driveway now, and I have absolutely no regrets.
None.
Let me tell you a little something about this motor, Blake. It kicks major ***. Even stock, these powerplants produce copious amounts of high-rev pucker factor. And check this out: This Hemi displaces 5.7 liters, precisely the same volume as the engine in my former ride, a ’95 pre-Vortec 5.7-liter Chevy… but the Hemi produces almost twice the horsepower!
Add to the brute strength of this beast the fact that my truck’s previous owner installed a very healthy, very vocal performance muffler and a set of 305/17 MT/R’s and mister, you’ve got yourself one awesome rig.
Or should I say my credit union does. I promised to take care of it for â€em, so as a bonus, they’re lettin’ me drive it around during the day, and park it at my house every night! Such a deal!
If you’re anything like me, you’re gonna seriously like your new Dodge, man. I’ve been partial to The General for many years, but that all changed on the first day I had the privilege of Driving Miss Hemi.
“Now. If everyone will excuse me, I be off yondah, â€rount behine dem trees ovah deah, â€causs I gots to go make wodah.” – Morgan FreeBamm
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Joined: Mar 2004
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RE: Looking at a new Ram
Heres the bad thing, the ones that are going for $20-22k are 4.7's. Yeah i'd like the hemi, but they are not discounting those NEAR that of the 4.7. I'm going to probably tell them bottom line if i can get in one w/ a hemi for only a 1k more, i'll take it. But its probably doubtful. I've heard some stories of 12 mpg in the hemi, and i don't wanna go there, but once again it is a truck. I don't need that much more power, but it would be nice. Any thoughts? or experience while purchasing these?
Joined: Mar 2004
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From:
RE: Looking at a new Ram
Go for the Dodge, I worked at a Ford Dealership,, (big mistake).. Fords are over engineered and nearly impossible for the common owner to work on.. I was raised on Chevy, Worked on Fords. I'm on my 3rd Dodge now. It's a matter of choice whether you want the 4.7 or the Hemi. Just remember situations change and you may want the power of the Hemi in the future.. Either way, I don't beleive you will be dissappointed with a Dodge.
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 23
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From: Wichita, Kansas
How to buy a truck without selling a kidney:
Blake, what would you say if I told you that I paid less than 22 large for my ride? Okay. The fact that I bought a 2003 in 2004 is proof that it’s not brand spankin’ new. I took delivery at close to 17,000 miles, not 5. The bed showed evidence of the Ram having been used (DARE I SAY IT!?!) as an actual truck. The headlights were aimed for squirrel huntin’. The jack had a few scrapes on it and wasn’t properly stowed, due to a missing wing bolt. The floor tray behind the seats was lacking 3 mounting screws. The cigarette lighter was missing. There was a little bit of slack in the spare tire stow cable. The right rack & pinion boot had a tiny bit of fluid on the bottom of the pleats near the inboard end. There was a mosaic of pesky Texas Division of Motor Vehicle stickers pasted to the lower left inside corner of the dash. The lube service sticker showed that the truck was running Quaker State 10W-30. And, to top it all off, the windshield was not properly Rain-X®ed.
So there you have it. This was my experience.
Your results may vary. See store for details.
And- oh yeah. By the way... enjoy your Ram, Blake!
Bamm
Did I let any one of these minor inconveniences prevent me from doin’ the deed?
No.
Was it really worth renting a car, one-way, from Wichita, Kansas to Longview, Texas, braving torrential downpours while passing through the blinding road spray of big rigs at eighty miles-per-hour under cover of night, in an unfamiliar car which, coincidentally, was ALSO lacking in the adequate application of Rain-X®, only to arrive at the Super 8 motel south of OKC to find that it was not equipped with so much as a respectable coffee maker or alarm clock, so as to get a decent jump start in the morning, since I had to make it to the DMV in Gregg County, Texas before they closed for the weekend, in order to acquire a stupid “One Trip” registration so that I could legally transport myself and The Ram back to The Land of Oz?
Why… yes. Yes it was.
Even though you were accosted by that bag lady lookin’ gal at the rest stop just north of the Arbuckles, as she hobbled over with the use of a cane and pleaded for gas money so that “…a family could make it back home to (Jerkwater?), Alabama” to catch the last round of the hog calling contest, or whatever other Godforsaken reason? Looking back, aren’t you ashamed that, Buddy, you couldn’t even spare one thin dime for a destitute family in need, while you were on your little adventure to go pick up a shiny, new truck? You heartless bastard, what’s wrong with you?
Look. I don’t make it a habit of makin’ small talk with complete strangers at rest stops when I’m going from A to B on an urgent mission to pick up the pick-up of my wildest dreams. Furthermore, and like my wife always says about perpetual losers who panhandle when they could be out in the real world punchin’ a clock like normal people do, “She shoulda started OUT a little earlier in life.” So don’t give me any more grief about it, Skippy, before I terminate this interview and gladly put you up in a semi-private room in an understaffed medical facility with an irate RN named Gertrude who hasn’t seen a bar of deodorant soap in about fifteen years.
Moving right along, weren’t you in some pretty deep doo-doo when the Texas State Trooper LIDAR’ed you at probably eighty-five in a sixty on I-35E?
I thought I was the equivalent of well-burnt toast… yes.
And didn’t you thank God when he never even took your out-of-state license back to his car, instead, handing it back, announcing that the speed limit was sixty in the city and asking you to drive safely?
Actually, I’m agnostic, but yes, I thanked Him profusely anyway and plan to make a sizable donation to Our Lady of Miraculous Conception Nun School and Upholstery Repair.
So, even after all those obstacles, all that racing against the clock that you did and having driven 1,000 miles, round-trip, was it really worth it?
Honestly? I would’ve driven from Bangor, Maine to Tijuana, Mexico… from Seattle to Key West! For this truck, I would’ve hitchhiked from Mercury to Uranus.
Get real! How would you have gotten the truck out of Uranus?
Three 55-gallon drums of Crisco, two 25-ton tow straps, 64 fluid ounces of prune juice and one large shoehorn.
You sound pretty excited about your new ride. Are you sure you’ve been rational throughout this entire ordeal?
This was strictly a business decision. No emotions were harmed during the filming of this transaction.
No.
Was it really worth renting a car, one-way, from Wichita, Kansas to Longview, Texas, braving torrential downpours while passing through the blinding road spray of big rigs at eighty miles-per-hour under cover of night, in an unfamiliar car which, coincidentally, was ALSO lacking in the adequate application of Rain-X®, only to arrive at the Super 8 motel south of OKC to find that it was not equipped with so much as a respectable coffee maker or alarm clock, so as to get a decent jump start in the morning, since I had to make it to the DMV in Gregg County, Texas before they closed for the weekend, in order to acquire a stupid “One Trip” registration so that I could legally transport myself and The Ram back to The Land of Oz?
Why… yes. Yes it was.
Even though you were accosted by that bag lady lookin’ gal at the rest stop just north of the Arbuckles, as she hobbled over with the use of a cane and pleaded for gas money so that “…a family could make it back home to (Jerkwater?), Alabama” to catch the last round of the hog calling contest, or whatever other Godforsaken reason? Looking back, aren’t you ashamed that, Buddy, you couldn’t even spare one thin dime for a destitute family in need, while you were on your little adventure to go pick up a shiny, new truck? You heartless bastard, what’s wrong with you?
Look. I don’t make it a habit of makin’ small talk with complete strangers at rest stops when I’m going from A to B on an urgent mission to pick up the pick-up of my wildest dreams. Furthermore, and like my wife always says about perpetual losers who panhandle when they could be out in the real world punchin’ a clock like normal people do, “She shoulda started OUT a little earlier in life.” So don’t give me any more grief about it, Skippy, before I terminate this interview and gladly put you up in a semi-private room in an understaffed medical facility with an irate RN named Gertrude who hasn’t seen a bar of deodorant soap in about fifteen years.
Moving right along, weren’t you in some pretty deep doo-doo when the Texas State Trooper LIDAR’ed you at probably eighty-five in a sixty on I-35E?
I thought I was the equivalent of well-burnt toast… yes.
And didn’t you thank God when he never even took your out-of-state license back to his car, instead, handing it back, announcing that the speed limit was sixty in the city and asking you to drive safely?
Actually, I’m agnostic, but yes, I thanked Him profusely anyway and plan to make a sizable donation to Our Lady of Miraculous Conception Nun School and Upholstery Repair.
So, even after all those obstacles, all that racing against the clock that you did and having driven 1,000 miles, round-trip, was it really worth it?
Honestly? I would’ve driven from Bangor, Maine to Tijuana, Mexico… from Seattle to Key West! For this truck, I would’ve hitchhiked from Mercury to Uranus.
Get real! How would you have gotten the truck out of Uranus?
Three 55-gallon drums of Crisco, two 25-ton tow straps, 64 fluid ounces of prune juice and one large shoehorn.
You sound pretty excited about your new ride. Are you sure you’ve been rational throughout this entire ordeal?
This was strictly a business decision. No emotions were harmed during the filming of this transaction.
Your results may vary. See store for details.
And- oh yeah. By the way... enjoy your Ram, Blake!
Bamm