2002 or 2003 pros / cons
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Muted User
Joined: Sep 2004
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From: lower pottsgrove PA
2002 or 2003 pros / cons
i am think of buying a new truck. i looking for a 02 or 03 2500 4x4 long bed. i know a good bit about the 02`s cause i have a 01 but i know nothing about the 03`s.
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Joined: Apr 2003
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From: central OH
02 - 235hp SO engine with auto or 5spd, or
245hp HO engine with 6spd
Smaller quad cab
16" wheels easier to find load e tires in variety of sizes
03 - updated Common Rail diesel
250hp SO (235 with 50 state emissions) engine with auto or 5spd
305hp HO engine with new 48RE auto or 6spd
4 full doors in quad cab
some more luxury type options, if desired
Availabilty of a 3500 SRW with 900lbs higer GVWR than the 2500
17" wheels make finding load e tires a little harder
I bought a new 03 in Dec 03 instead of a used HO 01.5 or 02 because I like the bigger cab, more powerful stock engine, and what I think to be a nicer interior
These are just my opinions. If you have any questions let me know.
Nick
245hp HO engine with 6spd
Smaller quad cab
16" wheels easier to find load e tires in variety of sizes
03 - updated Common Rail diesel
250hp SO (235 with 50 state emissions) engine with auto or 5spd
305hp HO engine with new 48RE auto or 6spd
4 full doors in quad cab
some more luxury type options, if desired
Availabilty of a 3500 SRW with 900lbs higer GVWR than the 2500
17" wheels make finding load e tires a little harder
I bought a new 03 in Dec 03 instead of a used HO 01.5 or 02 because I like the bigger cab, more powerful stock engine, and what I think to be a nicer interior
These are just my opinions. If you have any questions let me know.
Nick
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Joined: Sep 2002
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From: n/e oregon
I bought the 02 cause i didn't want to look at the wipers and the cruize control on the 03's you cannot reach with out taking your hand off the wheel-my 2 cents worth--Glenn plus i like the sound
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had a '01 and was loud enough to kill brain cells and wondered around the road like a old farm truck. The only thing I miss is the '01 had better seats. This '03 is rock solid on the road and can go thru a drive thru without being asked to kill it. The engine is quiet and with a 7500/15000 oil change schedule it is cheaper to operate. I don't miss the noise at all . JIM
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Joined: Apr 2003
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From: Cummins Technical Center, IN
I had a choice of either an 02 or an 03 as I bought new in Aug 02.
I went with the 02 for a number of reasons
-- known entity, nothing new.
-- Established aftermarket-- injectors, boxes, etc already available
-- NO vehicle is ever worked out in its first year of production
-- the seats on the 02 were more comfortable to my 6'1" 210lb frame.
-- 02 felt more maneuverable (shorter wheelbase) and I have to park in some tight areas. That said, the 03 supposedly will turn tighter.
I don't regret getting my 02 over an 03m though I am jealous of SOME aspects of the HPCR trucks. 200hp from a BOX, for crying out loud!
Justin
I went with the 02 for a number of reasons
-- known entity, nothing new.
-- Established aftermarket-- injectors, boxes, etc already available
-- NO vehicle is ever worked out in its first year of production
-- the seats on the 02 were more comfortable to my 6'1" 210lb frame.
-- 02 felt more maneuverable (shorter wheelbase) and I have to park in some tight areas. That said, the 03 supposedly will turn tighter.
I don't regret getting my 02 over an 03m though I am jealous of SOME aspects of the HPCR trucks. 200hp from a BOX, for crying out loud!
Justin
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