I just traded my 01 quad cab 4x4 for an 06 Mega Cab 4x4, what a huge difference (no pun intended) and not all for the better. First, the mileage is significantly worse, loaded and unloaded whichis very disappointing but I just discovered that this barge needs an empty walmart parking lot to turn around in! Sheesh! I expected it wouldnt be as nimble (can I call a 3/4 ton diesel nimble?) as my 01 but wowsa!! What can I do, if anything, to improve this, just a wheel base function or can I monkey with the steering stops to mprove it some ?

Suggestions?

Mileage thoughts?

Thanks All

 

No, the turning radius is a function of the wheelbase and the front wheel drive. Ever drive a military 2 1/2 truck? Thank your lucky stars you have power steering!

 

lol, no Steve, I missed that opportunity in the Navy.... but I have enjoyed 'armstrong' power steering in other vehicles.... I was afraid of that, I guess I need to start saving my pennies for a set of lockout hubs to start, I cant believe the difference between the two truck! wowsa!

 

I don't think lock out hubs will help. Wheel angle is limited by the "U" joint drive itself. This is one of downsides of 4 wheel drive. You will note that a CV joint does have a greater deflection angle, but alas, Dodge uses "U" joints with their inherent downsides of low deflection angles and velocity modulation.

 

probably not Steve, youre right, its just going to be a barge, amazing how much worse the mega is over my 01 QC is though

 

Didn't you test drive it before you committed to buying it?

 

yes I did, i didnt notice how much different it was while negotiating a parking lot as the one I tried it in was empty at the time. Besides, I didnt anticipate that being an issue, I wrongly assumed that the handling would be comparable to the 01

 

Well there's got to be things you like about the truck though, right? I mean, glass half full or half empty? The cab space has got to be nice. I can directly compare a '99 QCLB to an '06 QCSB. While the '99 is very maneuverable for a lwb truck, the rear seat is almost unusuable for adults. Where as my '06 seats them comfortably.

So you have to adjust your driving for the new truck? In the grand scheme of life, not a big deal imo.

Enjoy the new rig!

 

Your wheelbase is longer. You should love the increase power steering boost and lighter steering. Brakes are way better than an '01 with rear drums. The mileage on my '07 is identical to my '98.5 w/same popup camper. Anarchy EFI can transform the truck performance wise and even a dab more mileage.
I miss the seats on my 2nd gen. That's it.
Lucky your not driving a Ford with front leafs. Now that's a big turning radius. Going to the coil/front mono control arm bought them a reduction of 5.5'.

 

Oh yeah Shorts i do like the truck, just surprised by the differences more than anything. It does take more planning in a tight parking lot than the 01 but as far as ride, braking, noise, and almost all other aspects the 06 is a huge improvement. The brakes are especially noticable, or have been on this trip, WAY better. The cab space is night and day so yeah, I like the truck and will more and more as I get used to it, just not when filling up or parking....

I do agree Danderson, the earlier seats were more supportive of my ample self and much more comfortable on long trips because of the support. It doesnt help that within a week half the seat adjustments have quit working Im sure but that just gives me another project.

I'll do some diging but what is the Anarchy EFI? is that a add on tuner like the smarty or bully dog or something? Ive not looked into any of those at this point as I dont need more ppower and worry about affecting reliability

thanks all