I am starting to look for an older Dodge with a Cummins. I want a 4x4, long bed, extend cab (or 4 door), and automatic. What years should I look for? I want a truck that is the most upgradable. I am planning on thowing around $15,000-$18,000 at this truck with the purchase price. I want to upgrade the transmission, change the gears, ALL the power adders I can from new turbo to propane. I want 6-8 inches of lift with 37"+ tires. I guess a 1 ton would be the way for me because of the laws on lifted trucks. There are hight restrictions on trucks under 1 ton but not so much on 1 tons. I will be towing the camper with it so I will either get a custom tow hitch made or just less lift.

 

If you want one that is simple to upgrade and very reliable go with a '94-'98 12 valve.
They're getting harder to find though, the folks who have them aren't letting go.
They are one of the last vehicle engines made in the US without a bunch of smog crap.

 

Unless you get one from California...

 

I agree about it all. P pumped 12 valves are hard to beat! I'll never get rid of my trucks below because they are SMOG junk free... (LOL)