I'm just about ready to let the 'ole Powerstroke go and take the Dodge plunge. I've been searching for a 2005-2006 2500 quad/auto and have finally found a 2005 slt/Bighorn that appears very clean and good shape w 59k miles. It has black cloth interior, an open 3.73, auto, usual options. This truck also has chrome fender accents which I haven't seen on other ones I've looked at, so is it a Laramie edition even though it has the cloth interior? I prefer the 2005 interior over the 2006, and other than the plastic end intercooler, are there any other things I should look for? Is the 2005 engine/running gear the same as the 2006?
Thanks, looking forward to the Cummins.

 

Chrome accents are an add on, not fromt he factory. If its and SLT it isn't a Laramie. Not all '05's had the plastic caps, only the early ones. Mine has metal caps, but was made in May of '05. The 2006 trucks have a few minor changes in the transmission, and different programming for tow / haul, that make it approved for use with an exhaust brake. Other than the interior and the above mentioned items, the drivetrain is the same. I think its a matter of preference as to the looks of the truck and the interior. For the most part, the important stuff is the same between years.

 

I just picked up '05 right after Christmas with 41k miles on it.. runs great..

front wheel bearing hubs were howling a bit , and I think I have tire cupping still..

I'm RWD..

 

BTW, I'd like to feel a tight front end and make sure the wiring harness hasn't been tapped into (performance box). See if there is a pyro hole drilled in the exhause manifold. You're looking for signs of prior performance minded owners. I'm about to roll 100K, and my truck is nice and tight (replaced almost entire front end over the last 15K) and runs better than new. Change all fluids when you get it and it'll treat you well.

 

I am also in the market for a new truck, I am trying to make a decision on which generation truck is best for me. What are some of the updates over the 2nd gen that make the 3rd gen "better". I have a huge lack of knowledge about the common rail and the third gen except for a basic understanding of how the engine works. Basically i want to know why I should chose a third gen keeping in mind i want to spend under 15k so the mileage is going to be aorund 100k. The truck will mainly be used for a towing a malibu respinse LXI so circa 3500lbs, nothing to big though really.

 

Thanks for the input. I was looking at a couple of 2006 models also, both were low mileage and very clean, but is a smokin deal on this 2005 (I think) and I hate to pass it up. Looking forward to getting it later this week and then start the build up process. I'll need much hand holding and this forum looks like just the place to get the right information. Thanks again.

 

Yes, between this and the gun forums we'll make you broke.

 

Before you write off the 06+ interiors, see if you can find a laramie. I'm MUCH happier with the interior fit and finish of my 06 than I was with some 03-05's I drove. In 06 we also got some better electronics for use with exhaust brakes, supposedly quieter interiors, etc..

You don't have to worry about worse mileage either since the 05 is a 600 series.

Shawn

 

Yeah, I hear ya there, now to make matters worse I found a 2006 model that I'm looking at tomorrow - so, it's now a toss up between a 2005 and the 2006, assuming of course that the '06 model is a sweet deal.