my neighbor is selling an 02 ram v6 with 144k miles. he said he would sell it for $3500. anyone here have any experience with these trucks?

its in decent shape to me, there are a couple dings on the drivers door, and a few scratches on the bed. it was lowered incorrectly and rides really really rough, winshield is cracked, ac on works on max (but still works)
brand new tires
new alternator
new rack and pinion

what do you think, should i get it?

 

Not only no but hell no. Not just because they're ugly but we bought **** 2 dozen over a 3 span 05-07 and they were total pieces of crap. 3 blew the engine, and over half had ac problems. They also get absolutely horrible gas mileage but that's true for any full size truck with a v6.

 

strange i actually like the way they look.

i appreciate the feedback, im on my 11th vehicle and this would be my first truck

 

I've never owned one, just have experience with the v6 work trucks we buy. They get the crap beat out of them but they're maintained well and we still have a ton of problems. We went back to Ford in 08 and have had a lot less problems. GM work trucks are too expensive so we will never get those.

 

yeah thats the main reason im looking at dodge. f150's are just too plain for me (especially the 97-03) and silverados are still rediculously overpriced for a 99+

 

Nothing majorly wrong with the Vortec L31 trucks. Look for a 96-99 (classic) Z71 fleetside, extended cab. Solid trucks with a lot of capability.

 

I Drive one almost daily, Not exact sure on the year but I think its an 04.

Black
V6
6 - speed
90k on the clock

Pretty much the family workhorse and using it while my T/A is at the shop. There alright, gas mileage is "eh" and v6 acceleration is pretty horrible when hauling anything medium-large.

All in all we haven't had any "Major" problems with it yet, although its still under warranty. It's not a bad truck i must say, it has its uses. In all honesty if you want a Ram go with the V8, V6 gas mileage is not if any better and towing anything in it honestly blows.
Hope it helps.

 

i wouldnt get a v6 truck, like stated about they get about the same gas mileage and you cant tow much with it. im sure yould could find a v8 silverado or dodge with the same amount of miles for around the same price.

 

unless you are a grandpa don't bother,you will not be happy.
My 13yr old daughter which I am teaching to drive,she even hates driving the v6 over the v8.
The dodge your looking at does look good,but just remember it is a v6 and you wont be getting anywhere quick.

 

What do you mean by that? What kind of price they would need to be in your opinion?

Just invest 2-3K more and you'll get a nice V8 Silverado.

 

How exactly was it lowered? I'm guessin cut or heated springs,frame unnotched, maybe took a leaf out..if any is the case id pass. Droppin one the wrong way just causes excess wear and tear that you dont wanna deal with.

 

i didnt bother to look, it feels like the frame is sitting on the rear end and there is no suspension compression so it literally bounces down the road.


and in dallas a 99 silverado with a v8 and 150k miles is still $6grand, 8 grand if its an extended cab

 

Yeah, I know what you mean. I was in the same boat two months ago. The deals are out there, though. Just need to shop around for a little while.

I got mine for $6K: 2003 5.3 regular cab, step side, in great condition (no leaks, noises, peeling paint/clear coat, dents, major scratches etc.), pretty much as loaded as a regular cab can be (original window sticker in the glove box shows over $28K), 150K miles, nice aftermarket stereo etc. etc. Bought it from the original owner based on a Craigslist ad.

 

I'll be selling this truck in a couple months

Once I put a motor and trans back in it although I'd want more than 6 for it. Little bro was suppose to buy it from me after I got it running for him but it seems that's not going to happen so it'll be up for sale, don't need two trucks, wifes car and my company truck for two people

 

I'm a big truck fan and I'll always have one. They aren't for everyone though and if you want to get one then you need to look at what you're using it for and then decide where to go from there. When friends ask me about buying a truck, these are some of the tips I give them;

1.) Don't get a V6 if you can help it. You won't save gas, you'll just waste more trying to get your truck up and going. I have yet to drive a V6 fullsize truck that can get out of it's own way.

2.) If you're choosing between an extended cab and a crew cab, get the crew cab. You'll love the extra space. I loved my extended cab until my father purchased his crew cab, now I'm just pissed every time I put my girls in the back and I still have to fiddle with my seat. In his, I just put the car seats in and off we go. I love single cabs and if you're looking for one then disregard this tip and stick with the single cab. I can't have one due to my children, but there is nothing wrong with having one!

3.) 4WD is a nice option, but not essential. I mean seriously, 2WD trucks work great for 99% of what you want out of a truck. The 4WD option is nice for that .01% though, I do admit it. If you aren't finding a 4WD truck for the price you're wanting to pay then get a nicely optioned 2WD with a posi rear end and you'll be happy. Just remember that you have a 2WD when you go off road and be more careful. I've driven my 2WD in some rough bush and I've just had to be more aware of what I'm doing, but I've gotten out.

That's pretty much it. I know some may disagree on my points and that's ok, it's just my opinion and it may help you out.

 

And look around.....The trucks for sale on these forums are usually high. Check auto trader, local classified ads. You will find some good deals. Don't overlook the 96-99 Vortec 5.7 Chevy & Gmcs they are a lot cheaper and still look good. My previous 96 had 250k+ and my current 96 Z71 has 240K. They are very dependable and you should be able to find one for that price. Plenty of power and decent gas mileage. The Cummins diesel are great, but usually more pricey or worked to an inch of death

 

those are honestly the ones im looking for. however seems like fidining them with "documented" miles is a little hard to do. i wouldnt mind getting one with 180k however id like to know what kind of maintenence its had. i really want one in blue to match the camaro.

if anyone is interested in this ram i can send you my neighbors phone number. its a decent deal but it was definitely a work truck at one point

 

I bought my 2000 RSCB Silverado with a 5.3 for $2500. I find them all them time 99 and up for $3000 and up. If you dont mind 150k miles then you can find them. Just expect to be putting a tranny in it if you get one at 150K. Both of mind have needed it right at 148k.

 

The v6 were crap had a few buddys that had them and the engines was crap.

 

is that midnightrider's old truck? i didnt know he sold it