Looking at a truck, but dont know much about trucks... Help me out?
 

Hey guys and girls

Im shopping around for a truck to daily drive and to haul my boat and car trailer, but I dont know much about trucks. I found a truck but Im not really sure what to ask the guy about it or what problems are common with these trucks (I know they have transmission issues). Heres the specs on the truck

2001 Dodge ram 1500 with 130,000 miles
5.9 v8
4x4 and auto
has a 6'' suspension lift and new 35'' tires
PS/PW,Power door locks, heated mirrors, tow package, tint, fog lights
Aftermarket radio
Toolbox
Bed liner

the only bad on the truck that is mentioned in the ad is the paint has a few small dents and scratches on it. But Im not too concerned about the paint right now.

Asking: 3600


So what quesitons should I ask him about it? I know I need to ask what gears the truck has.
Also what mpg's will I probrally be getting with the 35'' tires?


I appreciate the help guys. I will post pics if it all goes through!!!

friend had one, smashed it and then bought a newer model than the 01. Both seemed like they had solid power trains but with most domestic stuff it is the nickel and dime problems. I think he has 160,000 on the current one with no major engine work, but he has had to replace most of the stock suspension due to wear.

I do remember him telling me the best tank he ever got was 17 in a 1500 double cab 4x4 and that was standard wheels. He gets 14-15 around town. I would guess with big meats on there you are looking at 14 tops.

I don't know that I would buy anything American from the early 2000's. They are building some real crap then. The trucks may have been slightly better than the car but not by much. Get under the truck and really inspect everything. With a lift and everything I would be surprised if you were able to get double digits in gas mileage. If you are looking for a fun toy then go for it but if you are going to drive this regularly I would look for something a little smaller or at least unmodded.

the 5.9L is a gas hog. You won't get particularly good mileage even if you didn't have the lift kit, and you also have to factor in the 4x4.

The weak link on those trucks is the transmission. Check it carefully for slippage. They aren't terribly bad to repair and not that expensive, but a pain in the but to have to do it.

Also, you need to know what rear end it has. If it has the tow package, it should have the best one (not sure what they were for your year), but be sure to find that out. Your ability to tow will be based on that rear end.

All in all, they aren't bad trucks. I have a newer Ram with a Hemi. It has 180k+ miles without any problems.

Remember the Top Gear America episode about driving across Alaska?

They got it right.

I have an 05 Silverado with the 5.3 v8. I bought it a few years ago one owner with 135k on it and it now has 160k (I don't drive it much). But the truck has been great, only changed fluids, and a battery. I will be sticking with Chevy for any other pickups I need. Not to mention, it is worth about the same that I paid for it.

When I was looking, I avoided dodge for the transmission problems.