First off Hi, and I enjoy the site. Been browsing the forums for a few months now and I could use some advice. I am agressively looking for a ctd. Originally I just wanted a 90-93 to replace my totaled 90 gas ram, but then I made the mistake of driving my friends 2001 short bed ext.cab and loved it. I also liked the feel of the 12v motor, however I really, really, really want the extra cab, but not in a longbed which brings me to my question:
Should I buy a 2nd gen ctd or not?
You guys seem to be in misery over this fuel system. The transmission issue does not scare me, from what I gathered just don't tow with overdrive on (same as my 90), but the fuel system is a bit bothersome and has caused me to hesitate on two good deals already.
Would I be better off finding a high milage 2003 rather than say a low milage 2001-2002 in great shape for similar money?
The reason I ask is I have marked out a great shape 70,000 mile 2002, but then last night ran across a 2003 with 150,000 for the same price 19,500 which I should be able to negotiate down a couple of thousand I hope. This is my absolute ceiling at the moment. Or do I just wait and continue to hide my face in shame while driving a chevy?
Thanks for having me,
JJ

 

Well first of all everyone has a price limit so thats ok, but keep in mind there is always a good deal out there just take your time and look, try and find an old man selling his truck. I ain't saying take some old guy to the cleaners but for the most part an old man truck will be well taken care off and not rallied. And as far as trannys and fuel systems you will always have maitenance on these trucks some get more and some get less, it is just the way it is you can't worry about it. Good luck JD

 

I for one just accepted the fuel system as needing addressed. The transmission costs over 2x what the fuel system rebuild does, and again it just needs addressed. The major drawback to the early second generations is the 53 block, try to steer clear of them. If you are worried about the fuel system, check the pressure before buying a truck. If you find one you like add a pusher pump and big line kit for $200 or a FASS system for ~$500. The key to fuel system longevity is to keep pressure up above 8-10 psi at all times, preferably 10-12 psi. If you find a low mileage truck, address the transmission early and it will be OK. The stock torque converter is very sloppy, and will absorb hp. Guys have added a valve body and torque converter and been fine to well over 400 hp. You need to know what you want the truck to do, then build it accordingly.

The 3rd generation trucks have their drawbacks as well, so do not go into this believing if you get a 3rd genner all will be good. The fuel system is different, yes. And the 48RE is a step in the right direction. But the mileage is worse, they have a catalytic converter, and the 3rd injection event upsets some people, American Axle vs Danas. The brakes are much better, the ride is smoother, and they have SOME more cab room. I would call them the be all to end all, but they are nice.

It sounds like what you are looking for is a 98 12c Quad Cab short bed 5 speed. The Holy Grail of Cummins trucks. But before all decide what you want the truck to do, and choose accordingly.

 

I do not think I have ever seen a short bed ext.cab 12v, just reg cab & long.
Thanks for the input. I will just accept the fact I need to do the fass mod with the price of the truck.

 

I bought my '01 in January with 63,xxx miles and 10,000 miles later couldn't be happier. Maintenance has been meticulous on this truck and I needed the Quad Cab and safety features for family reasons. My truck does everything I need and gets 19 mpg. Can't ask for much more.

The fuel issue is always there and either a RASP or Mitusa is in my near future to fix it. All of these trucks have tradeoffs that have to be considered.

 

I guess every truck has its issue's. I think I will just accept it and deal with the issues. Plenty enough info here on the forum to address any issues anyway. A problematic fuel pump is certainly better than being stuck driving a chevy!
As for what it is going to be used for, it will be a semi daily driver, occasionally used to tow my jeep and get a load of mulch or two for the yard. I do plan on keeping it quite awhile and also adding a lift kit eventually depending on money, just because I lift every 4x4 I get.

 

The search is over. I decided that a 2002 ¾ ton extended cab was the one for me. After reading the board daily I decided that the negatives were not enough to keep me from buying one. Originally I was just going to find a 93 to replace the 90 318 that I lost, but after borrowing my buddy’s 2001 for a long trip I got spoiled. I must have looked at over a dozen ctd’s before deciding to pull the trigger on this one.
It is not perfect as it has over 93,000 on it. I had to replace the windshield and upper ball joints along with a good day of detailing. It did have the dreaded fuel pump codes, but it was still under warranty so the local Dodge dealership took care of them. I liked the way the trans felt along with the rest of the drivetrain. My biggest issue with it is the wheels as the previous owner put aftermarket wheels with a ridiculous offset to them.

I have a fuel pressure gauge on order, so once I get that hooked up I can address the fuel system next.

This is what I have done so far
OIL + FILTER (VALVOLINE BLUE, MOPAR FILTER)
TRANS FLUSH + FILTER (MOPAR +4, MOPAR FILTER)
COOLANT FLUSH (ZEREX)
REAR DIFFERENTIAL (MOBIL 1 75W-90)
FRONT DIFFERENTIAL (MOBIL 1 75W-90)
T-CASE FLUSH (MOBIL 1 ATF)
FUEL SYSTEM (DODGE DEALER: INTANK PUMP/VP44/FILTER)
PUKE BOTTLE EMPTIED/CLEANED
WAXED
WINDSHIELD
UPPER BALL JOINTS
BALANCED TIRES
FRONT END ALIGNED

Overall I am tremendously pleased with my purchase and grateful for the info found on this site to aid me in my purchase & maintenance.
Thanks

 

Sounds like you took you time and made a good decision, now you can enjoy it