cummins2

I am going to buy another diesel and I thought I would ask for some opinions from the folks that have had both 2001-2002 trucks and 2003-2004 trucks. I am looking to purchase a used truck that is in very good condition but I would like some input concerning the common rail trucks and how they compare to the 2001- 2002 trucks.

Can anybody the has had both trucks tell me which one they prefer? What benefits do the newer ones have over the older ones and vice versa? In your opionion, which trucks are more reliable? I'm just trying to get some input. It never hurts to find out what other people have to say.

Have the 03 and newer trucks had more problems than the 01-02 years? I have heard of some issues with the newer trucks concering injectors and the cost of the injectors.. Anything you want to share will be appreciated. Thanks.

hump

My previous truck was a 2001 extended cab short bed automatic 4x4 loaded with 3:55 rears traded it in on my current truck which is a 2003 4 door 6-speed 4x4 loaded with 3:73 rears. Both are excellent trucks but I must say that I absolutely love my 2003.

The 2003 has more power , better steering and braking capabilities and the true 4 doors makes it even sweeter than the old small rear doors on my 2001. Of course the 2003 has more interior room than the 01 model. The 6-speed teamed up with the 3:73 rears is a great combination IMO. Both trucks were extremely reliable. As far as my 03, I have had absolutely NO problems with it . I'll take my 03 anyday over my old 01.

Hope this helps ya out....

HUMP

J BODY

I love my 01, and if it wasn't for the dark shadow of death that constantly looms above the fuel system, I would say either one is a fine choice..... That said, I would go with the 03-04, however.....if it is an 03, I would want a late enough build that had a 48re trans. They have really proven themselves over the years.

Dodgezilla

The 03 will be much quieter than the 02!!

donhov

As above the 2004 is quieter, 48RE more dependable, Fuel system a little more dependable which are all pluses. If looking at a manual tranny then it gets a little more complicated as one of the trans is discontinued either the G56 or 5600 but I don't remember which (do a search for which one) Then add to the mix with the 2004 305/555 or the 2004.5 325/600 engines. I don't think you would see a price difference in the 2 versions of the 2004 and not sure most dealers and/or parts departments even know there is a difference. Just remember your 2004.5 is already part bombed with the full 4" exaust already on the truck and a slightly better air intake system. But on the other side it will be a little more expensive for the newer truck also. Most 04/04.5 also have the extended 7/70 warranty with the 100K Cummins warranty also. Don't know about the earlier years though, they may be the same.

Also need to add the fuel millage item to this post. Think that the newer trucks do not get quite as good of fuel millage as the older ones although I started out getting 13-15 and now that I have some miles (26000) on the truck I am getting 19-21 mpg highway with the empty truck. I gained when I put the Quad box on and I gained when i started using the PS & MMO regularly.

JMHO....Don

TurboTed

I would want a late enough build that had a 48re trans. They have really proven themselves over the years.


If you're getting the auto, you also want a late enough 03 build that you get the HO(with the 48RE).