For a little while now I have been considering a newer truck, a third gen as I would like a dually for the slide-in and a bigger rear seat as the kids are getting bigger. I have been following the third gen boards for a while and have noticed a disturbing trend of fuel pump problems (similar to the VP wows) is it as bad as it seems? I can only afford a 03/04 truck and out of the two I looked at one wouldnt start hot and both had leaking CP3s Did DC do it again? another poor short life fuel system on the third gens? I only personally know 2 people with 3rd gens and both have had fuel issues one had a no start, LP crapped out and the other guy has had leaking injectors so? What do you all think?

 

If you want a truely newer truck i'd get a 04.5. Gotta love the 4 doors and they drive very nicely. Any pump is better than our VPs!

 

Injectors were a problem in the 04.5s but if you get an 03 or 04 you will probably be fine. By now the problem will have been taken care of. Running additives seems to help keep the CP3 from leaking by keeping it lubed. I didn't have either problem so I've been pretty happy. You will probably miss the noise your 2nd gen makes though.......

 

i have 61,000 on my 04.5 and short of the lift pump crapping out at about 58,000 it has been perfect.

 

41k no problems.......................................... ........................yet

 

No problems with mine either. I've had two ECM reflashes for minor issues (18-007-04 & 18-037-04) but that is it.

 

136000 only fuel problem was lift pump craped out at 68000

 

The fuel delivery system is adequate for a stock applcation, no more. The CP3's will run leaking and as long as there is enough fuel flow to provide lube and cooling they will live quite a while. The 03's and 04's have had more problems with injectors but generally only if they have had presure boxes on them. The rail relief valves are starting to show issues with age and are a problem pressure boxes.

Overall, if you keep them stock there seems to be only isolated problems, but, when you start bombing its a pandora's box. The problem with buying a used truck is you have no idea what has been done to it and unless the dealer/seller is going to warranty the problem areas you could be in for some nasty, read that expensive, surprises.

The way these trucks are holding their value buying a 2-3 year old truck just does not pencil out financially. Unless you can get a killer deal AND an extended warranty you are really taking a chance on costs down the road. Some times the higher payment for a new truck with warranty is cheaper than a used truck that has a dubious history. Good with whatever you decide.