Hey,

While I've been lurking the boards for a few weeks, I'm now a member and plan on asking and answering questions as needed.

I just replaced my 96 gas Ram truck with a 2004.5 Cummins long bed, crew cab 6-speed 2wd. The truck only has 19,000 miles on it, but I still can't help but feel a few things just aren't right with this truck.

First, it feels as though I have a busted motor mount. When I engage the clutch aggressively, you can hear a knocking sound from under the truck. This is especially noticeable when I'm backing up.

Second, the clutch feels like the throwout bearing or slave cylinder is bad. Hard to really explain, but it just doesn't feel perfect.

Third, the power seems to come on HARD right at 2000 rpm. I don't have a boost gauge yet, and was wondering if that's just the spool up I'm feeling.

Fourth, do the 2004.5 have the lift pump issues that have plagued many of you? I know the older trucks had a lift pump in the tank, but I'm under the impression that the 3rd gens have the pump right next to the fuel filter housing.

Last, what's up with the 6-speed shifter? I've driven several, and they always seem hard to figure out. Going in to 5th and 6th gear doesn't feel natural. I'm getting better with it, but was curious if there was a good aftermarket shifter to help out.

My plans for the truck include:
Aftermarket muffler
boost/egt temp gauges
roll-up tannau cover
smarty or smarty jr
bypass filter

To show my appreciation to local DTR guys in the San Jose area, you're welcomed to stop by for a cold one and the use of my new four-post lift.

Thanks for the knowledge,
Garrett

 

Hi Garrett, welcome to DTR. I'm going to move this thread over to 3rd gen engine and drivetrain so you can get some good answers to your questions.