I want to buy a USED Dodge diesel to tow a trailer that will carry my Jeep Wrangler. Estimated tow 7,000 pounds.

What years do you recommend and what years to stay away from???

Jim

 

The first order of business here is to welcome you to DTR!

No bad years, but I would reccomend a 94-(early)98...

There is a lot of info on this subject, and a lot of opinions and prefrences. You might try searching.

 

If you're looking for raw, out-and-out dependability, and something that you won't have to tweak on much to get you from A to B, get a second gen (94-98.5).

But if you want another hobby, you can find a cheaper (or relatively cleaner) first gen (1989-1993) and with a few hundred dollars be making as much power as the second gen.

Of course, if you want luxury or ammendities, you can always get newer. There's not much to stay away from, especially if you want to stay stock, under which case a newer vehicle is always nicer. But, for only 7,000 lbs, there isn't a Cummins anywhere that couldn't handle it.

 

personally, i will stay away from any truck with a VP-44 Injection pump (98.5-200?)

they seem to be problematic and pricey.

too many posts on here about peoples VP's dying. you know its bad when people are excited about their VP's lasting 100k miles.

 

for a measly 7000lbs u can get the most basic 2wheel drive regular cab u can find...but if u plan on playing around with the truck then get urself a 94-98 12 valve with a 5 speed

 

I've worked on them all and feel the best year is '97.

 

Bill what about a 96 4x4 that has 99k miles on it? My brother wonts a good truck with a automatic. Not my choice. If any one has one 96 to 98 12 valve please pm me thanks Jim

 

I'm also partial to the 97's... Not as much experience sa Bill though.

 

I have a 96

that aint even broke it in yet lol. Mine is really good, i cant complain. All ive done to it is basic repair for wear and tear. Its easy to work on as well...

Rick

 

'96 is good also.
Many folks feel the 98' 12 valves are the best but personally I don't like the 24 valve style dash and climate control.

 

I agree with Bill here, the earlier climate controls are WAY better, and the cubby hole in the dash is insanely handy.