So I'm considering a 12 Valve cummins in my future.

I have a 03 now and I'm looking to add a dually to the fleet.

My buddy just picked up a 99 and he said there were lots of 12V dually available.

What does some one need to look for on these trucks?

I'm thinking of an early 98 but I'm not sure which year would be best. What are the big differences year to year??

Thanks

Blygy

 

Differences year to year may be easier explained at DodgeRAM.org for specifics on engine Hp etc.

The 97's were the first with the Hydroboost brakes instead of the vacuum booster. The 215Hp/ 5spd engine was available in 96 to early 98. 98.5 brings the 24V.

If you could work your way into a 97 to 98 unit, you probably would get most of the things you would like to have.

To point out things to look for in particular would be front suspension. Track Bar, ball joints, control arm bushings and the like. That stuff can be bad and the owner may not notice it. The rest should be easy to detect from use and miles on the ODO.

J-eh

 

98 was the first year for quad cab, redesigned dash/interior, new exterior mirrors, 53 block.

 

did the 53 block appear in 98 12V or 98.5 24V??

What does he D stand for as the 8th letter in the VIN on the 98s?? 12V or Quad cab.

Any Vin Decoders on the web anywhere??

How much electronics are on the 12Vs??

more questions later..

Blygy

 

d in the 8th digit means its a 12v. the pump is all mechanical no electronics everything is controlled by springs,gears,levers and cams. how much are you looking to spend a good 98 12v with under a 100000miles will run you about $17000-$20000 but its well worth it to have the quad cab and the new interior. if your not wanting an xtended cab or dont care about the 4 doors get a 96 or 97

 

Trust me, you will want the quad cab, it is just more practical or so I think and the extra money that you will spend on it now will help for the resale later. Just having the 4 doors makes quite a few things alot easier and in my opinion the interiors on the 98's are quite abit more accomodating than the previous interiors

 

The 53 block started in 98 and appeared in 12 and 24 valve engines. I believe it was around right through to the 02 model year.

 

The only point I will make about the Quad cab is that lower crash test rating by the NHSTA. Not having that pillar makes the cab a little more flexable which may be of concern if you are hauling heavy loads that would contort the frame or if you are a heavy offroader. The access is nice (I know cuz I have 2 rug rats) with the quad cab, but I opted not to get it. The next truck I purchase with have 4 full doors.

Electronics are pretty basic on the 12V. The PCM controls more of the interior than the exterior and therefor is more "Bush" friendly. If you have some baling wire and a hill you can get it started.

 

So what year did dodge switch from the 47RH to the 47RE??

Blygy

 

there were 53 blocks in 97's also

 

also, 53 blocks are one of those things where if you're looking at a super clean low mile truck, take it into consideration... but if you're looking at a 250k mile truck with a goosneck plate in the bed and some dings here and there, if it was gonna crack, it probably would have done it by now...

Forrest

 

I believe '96 was the first year of the RE.