I am in the market for a 2500 CTD and I am looking at used 2003-2005 models, is there anything I should look at or avoid in these years? I have heard of some having front end vibration, is this a large percentage or isolated and is it an easy fix? Any injector problems? I am looking for a 6 speed, but if I go automatic are they still weak in these years? I have also heard of some 2004 models having turbo issues, is there anything to look for there? Any other issues to look for on these years, rust problems etc. What is a good price for a used 2003-2005 with about 50-60k on it? May also consider an '06 with some of the incentive that are being offered right now.

Thanks.

 

Welcome to DTR. You will find a wealth of information regarding the models and years of the trucks you are looking for. Before you look anywhere else, why not check out the classified section here for good used trucks from our members? I would say the price for an '03-05 truck is around $25-30k depending on condition, mods,etc... Not sure if you can afford one, but a buddy of mine got an '06 Laramie fully loaded except for navigation and a sunroof for $36k out the door.
I am not sure about any of the trucks having front end problems, but I had the death wobble in mine due to bad shocks. Changed those to some Rancho's and the truck rides great. I also have not heard of any problems with turbos or injectors, but I'm sure there are trucks out there that have had problems like this.

Good luck in your search for a truck.

EDIT:Just saw that you are looking at an '06 due to rebates on them being so good. My friends truck FYI stickered for $47k and change and he got a lot off.

 

I got two 03 - no issues except both had front u-joints replaced below 40,000 miles. Never had an injector problem. My auto has a built tranny but it was fine before I built it-for what I was doing. Neither has any rust. I would guess 20-25K.

My 5 speed has a hiccup right now with a fueling problem. But never had any major problems.

Good Luck

 

Personally I would narrow the search to the 04.5's and 05's, cause you get the ctd 600 along with the NV5600 6spd (don't "settle" for a slushbox) the 06's are good also but the 6spd has a much lower overdrive (6th) gear which results in higher rpms at highway speeds (my 06 runs at 2400@75mph, 2150@65). Also good luck finding a new 06 with the 6spd.

I think the intagrated hour meter these trucks have would also be a big help if you where buying a used one. Good Luck!!!

 

Slushbox yea you certainly dont want one of those....Im a

 

Thanks for the input, How can I tell an 04 from an 04.5?

 

The '04.5s have a catalytic converter and they say 325 HP on the valve cover. There is a lot more to the story than the "600" though. I can't see picking a truck just because it is a 600. The 555 HO model without the catalytic converter and multi injection events gets better mileage and seems to have about the same power. And a chip more than makes up for the difference, way more.

The 48RE was available in '04 and is hardly a slush box or weak. And the NV 5600 six speed was available on the '04s. Each person has a preference on transmissions but that doesn't mean something is wrong with the other one.

Some seem to think a truck is clearly better just because it has "600" written on it somewhere. But that may not be the whole story. Make your own choice.

Wetspirit

 

I am very happy with the 600 engine. I would prefer it over the 555 if I had the choice of either one. More power stock and EVEN more with a chip/downloader and more options. They also have bigger exhaust housings (4'' vs. 3.5") and downpipes, inconel valves, better flowing injectors, more ECM memory space, electronic wastegates on the turbos which allows them to build more boost. Lots of guys with the 600 engines get as good or just about as good on mileage as the slightly slower, slightly less powerful 555's.


Some of the early 05 models had plastic intercoolers.

If I was looking for another CTD..........I would definately be looking for a good, clean 04.5. No regrets. I am also happy with the 48RE auto tranny, but eventually I will have it upgraded with DTT parts.

 

i would look for an 04 / 555 motor.

one 06 i drove was WEAK - enough to where wife was concerned about it's ability to get out in traffic.
my 06 i bought runs very strong - not strong off the line like my 04, but good once it gets moving.

the 3.5 inch downpipe flows more than the 04.5 4 inch downpipe and catalytic converter.

you will never have to worry about a Cat, you can do what you want with your exhaust.

my 04 Automatic had a few shudders, but it was strong for the year I had the BDPPDL set on PERF.

just buy a GDP kit, and bypass the stock lift pump, and either will do you for a long time.

the 4:10 gears affect (hurt) mileage more than any other factor (cat, 555 or 600) and nothing seems to overcome the poor MPG of the 4:10 gears and the wind resistance of the 4x4 being up so high.

a 4x2 will get better MPG,

welcome enjoy, lotsa opinions on here, but remember, mine is right!