I have an opportunity to buy a 98.5/250/4wd/CC/120k/5spd (nut fixed), I currently own 92w350(stock)/77k, basically i would be selling 92 & buying 98.5. Neither would be a daily driver, occassional pulling, (2500-6000lbs) & 200-500 mile trips, which vehicle would make the best all round truck as far as longevity, known discrepeancies, operating expenses, etc. The biggest problem i have with the 92 is DRW. the 98.5 will probably cost me about $3.5k more..
Im hoping to hear something that will help me decide, my time is short on the 98.5. Thanx for your input..

 

Not really sure if I can help since I have never owned a 2nd gen. But owning a 3rd gen now, people have been saying they wished they bought a 3500 DW due to the GVW they can carry compared to a SW truck.

I personally only use my 3rd gen for a daily driver so this truck (2500, qc, swb) should last me a long time. My 1st gen I sold after 7 years owning and it had 245,000 miles on it, still running pretty tip top for power.

So if you haul a lot, that is one thing I would consider.

 

For something that will not be driven daily, I would suggest you stick with the 92, as long as it meets all of your needs. I don't mean to take anything away from the newer trucks, but these old girls are just bare bones work machines---simple, tough, reliable and economical. While MOST of us don't put down the big power #'s the p-pumped and vp-pumped trucks do, these older trucks make long term consistantly satisfying power and 20+mpg to boot. There is absolutely nothing subtle about the older dodges, but that IMHO is what makes them so desireable---cool old stuff that works well and is paid for While the 2nd gen body style and, to a certain extent, engine management etc. has a punch list about a mile long, the only thing the older trucks are really noted for is never dying Yeah, I'm biased, but I think I have good reason to be. So, hang on to that 92, you won't regret it. If you do decide to go over-valved, let me be the first to ask---what'cha want for the 92?!(drool, drool)
Good luck with your decision!

g

 

VP pumps dying at least every 100k at the max and about 2grand to replace

need I say more!!

 

I would avoid an early 24 valve. Lots of fuel system deficiencies.

 

A 98.5 thats as early a 24 valve as you can get!! I think its a great engine, its just the IP/LP that has issues so as long as you upgrade the fuel system with something other than the dodge/cummins fuel pump. Looks like the FASS or something like it really does the job but its like $500. And all 24 valve engines had these issues untill they went to common rail injection. I haven't heard much about those though

 

Thanx for your input, I have decided the 98.5 is not the truck to depart with my 92 for.

 

I have a SRW 92 e/w 19.5 tires. This is a 2wd truck. The load ratng on the 19.5's is close to a pair of 16"ers. I have pulled a heavy 45' fifh wheel and race car with it. It needs more brakes, but is stable with the bigger tire load capacity. The only thing I have noticed is there is some wear on the axel housing where the axel bearings ride. And the axel bearings have to changed on about everyother brake job. No big deal.

Dually! we don't need no stinking dually!
(in the voice of the outlaw Mexican in the 3 Amigos)

No offense to dually owners.

 

The newer one is a lot of money sitting around for it's limited use when you consider any lone payment with intrest. Then there's higher insurance. Keep your 92' and brag about being debt free.