I have a 2005 ram 3500 dually diesel with automatic transmission. I would like to up grade to a 2 or 3 year old model. I like the economy of my truck. I pull a 36 foot goose neck cargo trailer 100 miles 2 times a week. Mostly flat highway.
I understand they changed the engine about a year after mine and the fuel economy also went away.

Do any of you have a recommendation as to what I should get?

 

In 2013 the fuel economy was restored to pre-2007.5 levels. My 2015 gets the same as me 2003 did & better than my 2006 did (it had big tires on it though), with much more power. Of course, starting in 2013 you'll have DEF to buy as well.

Or, if you can and don't mind not having a warranty, get a deleted one. Good MPGs and no emissions crap to break.

 

Thank you for taking time to share with me. I have no experience with DEF. How often does it have to be added?

 

I don't add DEF until it is pretty low, and then toss in a 2 1/2 gal jug from Wally World. It works out to a jug every 3,600 miles.
Back to morning brew . . .

 

Thanks. Sounds like is not not a really big deal.
I am gonna start looking for a 2015.

 

You pull a big trailer often, so you need a truck with strong power and good fuel use.

Look at a 2021 to 2023 Ram 3500 with the Cummins diesel. The high output version with the Aisin transmission has strong towing. Some people say the fuel use is better with the standard output version and 68RFE transmission.

Also check the maintenance records and if it has had any recalls fixed. Look at trucks with no emissions problems or reports of limp mode.

You can find good deals at online auctions or dealer trade-ins. Try to get a vehicle inspection report before buying.

Are you looking for a certain cab or bed size?