I have a friend looking for a used truck. 2wd is ok, nothing bombed. What year would you suggest and why? What is better about the 3rd gen vs the 2nd gen trucks? My understanding is that the 3rd gen trucks have a new auto transmission, is it better, more reliable than the 2nd gen autos? How are the brakes? How reliable is the common rail system and pumps?

Of course I'm trying to lead him toward a CTD.

 

For a more affordable truck, and for simplicity and economy, I'd go for a 2003 SO model manual.

 

Everthing about a 3rd Generation is improved over a 2nd Generation truck.Handles better,stops better,more H.P. if a H.O. 48re auto the list could go on and on.AAM axels have way less issues then Dana's. Ac stinks on lots of 3rd generation trucks!

 

Meaning what? The 48re's have a lot of problems?

 

No.Very little problems.But early 03s with the low horse motor more then likley had a 47re.I would stay away from that.

 

get as new as you can afford... always a good rule...

 

I'd go for a 06 or early 07 built before 1-1-07. After 1-1-07 they got the new 6.7 EPA regulated motor, plus a new 6 speed 68re auto trans. I dont care for a lot of new stuff to test for them. The 06 and early 07 had the tryed and proven 5.9 cummins, and the tough 48re 4 speed auto with tow haul AND overdrive lockout. The 05 had the 48re with tow haul but you cant lockout overdrive. previous to 05 the 48re had no tow haul but you COULD lockout overdrive. All 48re are heavier built then the older 47re autos. But you could lockout overdrive on all 47re. The 47re were OK if driven right. I had a 1998.5 with 215 hp and 420 torque and put 125k on it with no problem whatsoever with the 47re trans, pulled a 11000 lb trailer. Watch out for some of the older truck . The stock gearing was 3.55, with 4.10 as a option. 3.55 is too fast for heavy towing , my 1998.5 had 4.10 it worked well. Newer models went to 3.73 as stock gearing . On my 06 I opted for the 3.73 as the motor has much more power at 325 hp and 610 torque to pull it. But I find the only advantage of the 06 over the 98.5 is the 06 can do everything FASTER. And of course it is a nicer truck.