Looking to buy a 03-05 CTD(like those year body styles) and was wondering if any years are better than others. Are 03's problematic b/c first year run(like the early 99 powersmokes)? Are all of the third gen HO CTD's? Do the third gen auto trans hold up or is the 6 speed better? All info would be greatly appreciated!

 

I have an 03 HO 48RE. 72,000 miles and she has been pretty much problem free. a couple of minor things, but nothing major.

All in all, I am hapy with my truck

 

I have both an auto and 6spd 04 year models. My first D/C products ever even ridden in.

The auto is my daily driver and pulls a backhoe about 45% the time. Pretty tough going up regular overpasses; but flat ground is great.

The 6spd is about 50/50 - empty/dozer. It pulls with no issue at all.
Both getting about 16.2 mpg empty. I don't even care loaded.
I have an 03 7.3 powerstroke also and love it too. But its totally different.

Wouldn't trade my Cummins away for a free Ferd now.
My only failure has been 1 single lift pump on the Auto. That's it and its was 105k miles.

So no complaints here. All Stock.

 

I'm happy with my 03 SO but I did add a couple minor parts to pep it up some...

 

hi , not all 3rd gen ho , an so model was sold also it has the 47re auto which is weaker. i have an early o3 ho auto 48re truck has 77,000 on it only problem i ever have was a blown tranny line which was a recall anyways it blew 2 days after getting notice , rest of truck is still all orignal . i average 17 mpg all around long highway runs at 72 i get 20-22 .

 

early '03 model, 83+K miles. HO/6spd.

Nothing broken and no real issues. AC is a little weak in stop and go traffic. One or two minor interior trim rattles that show up in cold weather.

It does seem to have a little more driveline slop then new - I'm sure the u-joints are getting loose and I will probably replace them in the next couple months. Original brake pads look great. Fantastic mileage.

Oops - one rear brake light bulb burned out. But aside from that nothing but fluids, filters, and tires.

I can only say - if it got stolen or totalled - I'd probably call the dealer to order another before I even called my insurance agent.

 

03 ball joints 50,000. other than that pretty much problem free.

 

How do you tell the difference between a early 03 and a late model 03(production dates/VIN)? Also from what I read an HO 03 has a better auto trans? Thanks Again for the info!

 

In early 03 the HO came only in stick shift, and the 47RE came with the SO (CA emission) motor. Later the 48RE came out, and the HO could be ordered with the stronger automatic.

03's did seem to have a few minor issues. Stamped steel alternator bracket can crack (see my gallery), and also there was an updated power steering hose to correct a buzz/vibration in pedals/wheel at 2000 RPM (actually, the pressure supply line from the PS Pump to the Hydro Booster).

Mostly, they seem to be great trucks.

 

Two issues so far with mine. First a fuel leak at the lift pump, fixed with a new o-ring seal. Second a blown hydroboost line at the power steering pump. Known issue with early built '03 models and fixed with a new P/S pump and hydroboost lines.

MikeyB

 

So to tell the difference between a early and late 03 is their a certain month(production date) to tell between the two? Thanks

 

I'd pop for the 04 305 version - same truck/motor, but it carried a 7/70 warranty instead of the 3/36.

 

Nothing serious so far, only been to the dealer once in 32,000 miles for two "customer satisfaction campaigns".

My power steering pump has a slight leak and the ball joints are starting to get loose, so I'm headed back again before I hit 36,000 miles for sure.

 

03 came with SO 47/48 auto, or stick. HO came with 48 auto or stick.
I own a 03 SO with 48RE auto. I have had lots of problems with mine. But I would still recommend buying one. It has never left me stranded.
Most of my problems stem from the dealerships not knowing how to perform the fixes properly. Other wise a good truck.,

 

'03 HO with NV5600 305/555 engine with 54000+ miles of trouble free driving. Tows my 11200 lb 5er and gets 12.5+ mpgs. Truck averages 22+ when empty. The '03/'04 305/555 HO engines are get some great mpgs.
JIM