So I'm looking at maybe getting a 03-04 Ram 2500, 6spd, 4x4, QC, SB. Here is my question, would you buy a 3-4 year old Ram with 100k+? If so why? If not, why?

In your mind is there a difference from buying a 97-98 w/ 150k+ versus 03-04 w/100k+? What about 97-98 w/200k+ versus a 03-04 w/ 150+?

I'm trying to get a feel for it, because I was looking at prices of a 04 f150, and its around the same price as a 03-04 Ram, though the Ram will have about 1/3 more mileage.

 

If the price is right and the truck as been looked after why not. And if your not sure on how it was looked after take it some where and have a complete check up done on it. And if the mechanic finds something most owners well be willing to come down on the price to help fix it and if they wont move on.
With any thing used their will be parts or things on the verge of failing and you just have to be willing to be your own warranty.

 

I did, but I wish I had started with a pre-purchase inspection at a fully-equipped Dodge Dealer by a veteran Dodge-trained tech...
AFTER that, by all means, go with a more affordable indy or whatever your preference is.

 

I bought a 2004.5 high mileage (145K) and so far, everything is great. The dealer provided me all the service records as well as the 2 previous owners to call and ask questions. I would rather buy a vehicle that has a lot of miles on it with in a short period of time since the vehicle is probably a work vehicle with highway miles. Also, the person that puts a lot of miles on a year probably pays the dealership to ensure the vehicle is reliable. That was the case with the truck that I bought - every oil change at 3500 miles, 4 tranny flushes, 3 coolant flushes. Just amazing all the TLC that was done to the truck at the dealership.

The key is to talk to previous owners and get your hands on the service records.

 

High miles for the Cummins is not an issue, but depending on the year just be prepared to possibly do some trans work.

 

I bought my 05 last year with 250,000km (150,000miles) on it. It was used by a guy doing contract RV hauling. It looked like new, and was in great shape mechanicaly. Price was 8-10k less than a low miler.

I have put 40,000 miles on it with no problems.

 

As far as the Cummins motor itself, its not really that I'm worried about. Its secondary to the rest of the truck....like tranny.

 

yea i honestly wouldnt worry about the miles, tranny is the bigger issue. also as far as what year to pick- all about your personal preference in body styling, options, etc.

 

Marty, the manual tranny should be fine. The autos have the biggest question marks behind them. 100-150k should be fine.

 

HELL YEAH! I got a 03 2500 SO SLT(power everything, except passenger seat) with 48re trans, with 145,000 miles for a measly $13,000.00, Interior in excellent condition,exterior has 4 little dings,RUNS and DRIVES FLAWLESSLY! As soon as i got it i changed fluids in everything trans,diffs,engine,radiator,etc.coolant,filters and oil. I am the second owner, and the first owner just used it to commute from oxnard to orange county cali.Spent another 3800.00 got it lifted 6 inches and some 35inch TOYO M/T on american racing 17 inch teflons. Now going to do some motor and tranny work. WOOOOHOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! and you don't have to worry about dealers voiding out your warranty.LOL! And now looking for another high mileage 3rd gen. WIFE just can't keep her hands off of mines, but don't want to sell her 1500 big horn hemi. SHE just LOVES dodges i guess.

 

I just re-read your original post and noticed you said 6 speed and 03-04. I would have no issues, you are going to get a nv5600 and that is a great trans. Heck I would have no issues buying that type of truck. The only thing I would look at if it has a gooseneck and may have been used for towing heavy a bunch I may shy away and keep looking.

 

Yeah, because I definately don't want to have to buy a clutch right after I got the truck. Yikes! And I want a 6spd, not a 5pd either, thats for sure. I loved the zf6 6spd Ford has, and I've really liked Dodge's 5spd, so I know that the nv5600 should be a great handshaker.