diesel wannabe

Looking at some used trucks all 3500, all 6 speeds and in the 55-60k mile range and all similar priced, the 01 is a bit cheaper. There are certain things I like better about each truck so I am wanting opinions about which is the best truck. I know the 2nd generation has IP and LP problems, does the FASS or Helper pump really fix the problem, or just masks it. The 01 I am looking at is solid in the doors and rockers, can you prevent them from rusting or are they doomed? Which has the better front end wear or are they all the same? Any major issues with the 03-05's? Thanks.

SOhappy

No major issues with the '03 here

C Schomer

If they are close in price and mileage, I'd get the newest one. Mine is an early 03 (10-02) and I had some trans problems (warranteed reverse synchro) and the dealer said the later nv5600s were better. They braced up the injector lines better on the later 305s, too. I love mine - I'm not a bit sorry it's an early 305. The 305s usually but not always get a little better mpg than the 325s. No cat on the 305 either. IMO, I wouldn't even consider the 01 after having a CR. Craig

CoastalDav

I have a 2000 model with nv5600. Front end is still good. Tranny is still good. Original clutch, VP44, and second LP. Driver door is rusting out at the bottom. Passenger door is just starting at the bottom. Look under the doors on the 01. The interior is still top notch in mine. I love the sound of mine when its towing. Its sounds like a EMD or ALCO with that deep growl.

My truck has been a good one now at 168,000 miles. I look forward to looking at the new 4500/5500's if the pricing is not thru the roof.

Dave

kawiram

I had a 2000 model down here on the Gulf Coast, one the most rust inducive climates I've ever seen, and over 3 years the body never once showed any signs of rust. Thats after 3 years of salt water mudding, playing at the beach, etc. The aftermarket bumpers were rusting but the body was just fine.

bigdav160

I have both an 01.5 and an 03.

Never any reliability issues with either one. The factory lift pump was replaced with a Walbro after the second Carter failure.

I find the 03 is much more pleasant to drive.

The steering is tighter
The brakes are stronger
The engine is quieter
The interior is better laid out and more comfortable.

My .02

Tree DR

I don't recall the 01s haveing disk brakes in the rear.. Definite plus haveing disks on the rear. Not just for hauling either just for normall driveing much better stopping. As you can see from my sig that I liked the 12v's didn't do much with the vp's. I deffinitly like the newer ones though. Just bought the 05 and there's some good deals around. PM if you want some leads.

Christov

I currently have an '05 but with the 48RE automatic. I must say it has been the best truck I have ever owned.

C Schomer

I think 01.5 was the first with 4w disc brakes. A $379 GDP pump kit will FIX the LP problem. The 3rd gen 2wds have rack and pinion steering and handle like a good car. Craig

CoastalDav

The rust at the bottom of my doors is from the inside out. Caused by water laying in there. If I change the doors, I intend to cut the door open with a fire wrench. I willing to bet there is very little or no primer in there.

I live in Brevard Country Florida. When you ride a motorcycle down A1A the pipes will turn white from the salt in the air. This was the only county in the country that when undercoating was a big deal, in the 80's, the warranty was not honored in this county in Florida due to the salt in the air. If you get a scratch on the vehicle down here, you better do something with it now.

Dave