Jason Kerns

Hey y'all, I'm about to return from Afghanistan in a few days and am looking at 2 different '04 2500's (4 door). Both have just over 200k on the odometer, 4WD, and SLT packages and both are just under $15,000. My question is, what should I look for to pick the best. I have no plans to mod the truck; stock power is more than I need for at least the next 10 years or so. Are injector issues common for stock trucks? Also, if there is a better year for less than $15k, I'm interested in that too(as long as it can fit 3 car seats in the back). I thank you for your time.

Jason Kerns

I also found a '00 2500 with 190k for $12k. Excellent condition, but I had an '01 previously and am worried about VP44 problems.

Grey Wolf

Jason if you need the room I would stay with the Third Gen body style The price for those 2 '04's sounds good, they can command more than that out here in the southwest. I would check the overall condition of the trucks to get a feeling of how the owners took care care of them. If it was me I would take the one that appears the best and go with it.

Thank you for your service and good luck! GW

gcssr

Check ==gsaauctions.gov/ there are several 06 cummins 4x4, I just looked this AM. Good luck and Thank you for your service and sacrafice for our security.Grant

SOhappy

Maintenance records are worth a lot. These trucks need their fluids and filters changes, bands adjusted, etc. Check condition of ATF, should be red (not stinky and brown). Oil shouldn't be at or just below the fill line (cold) and not be runny and smell like diesel. Goes with out saying the antifreeze and oil should be the right color- not gray and milky. Listen for bad knocks or pinging in the engine, and odd vibrations in the steering and drivetrain. No white smoke at start-up, should fire right up (no long crank). Check the blend door (defrost to vent and back). Check for obvious fluid leaks. Play in steering is "normal" these trucks drive like an old Chev. Don't expect it to be perfect, but an obviously loose steering gear box, rod ends or ball joints could be used to beat the owner down on price. Tires are expensive, so factor that into your negotiations. Also check the trailer brake lights, can be fixed easily with a modulite if necessary but the seller won't know that- they might think you need a new ECM.

Danderson

Joe Donnelly on the TDR site has the nicest '04 imaginable for sale.