Im thinking about buying a 2001 Ram 3500 2wd today with 282000 miles on it and i dont know anything about these things. I run a small car lot and tow vehicles regularly with a tow dolly and a 1500 gasser gmc and just rung another trans... I went and looked at this truck the other day (dually), it started right up soon as i hit the key, it doesnt have a fifth wheel in it and it is a 6 speed standard. Drove it and it wants to grind going into 3rd gear... Everything else seem to run out good on the truck. I got him down to $5000.00.... Is this a deal or is that average price? Its a extended cab 4 door with the two suiside doors, loaded power seats, and alot of miles??? I just got the money and am suppose to be on my way to get it but thought id shoot you pros a line on it first.... Any imfo would be much appreciated!

 

282K miles is nothing for this truck. As far as the 6 speed, it means that is a HO model. The 3rd gear grind could mean a synchro may be on the fritz. I had an 02 that, except for taking off, I never used the clutch. If I had my druthers, I would ditch my 07 Hemi and get another 01/02 HO again. 5K sounds like a pretty good price. I got 7K trade in on mine and I had 400+K on the clock, but then mine was a 4WD too. I'd buy it if the frame looks straight and the body is in decent condition.

Gary

 

at that milage you better get the service history and give it a good going through, that milage is not a big deal for the motor but everything else can be quite pricey to have to replace- ball joints, unit bearings, transmissions, clutches, lift pumps, injectors- do some reading here in the second gen forum- good luck

 

Thanks for the info guys. Much appreciated! I dont know anything about these diesels besides they are known for their power and they take diesel LOL... Well I just got it home and its in my driveway! I noticed it takes off in second gear fine and i tried shifting it from second to forth and it handled it ok i thought... This thing is a totally different truck than what im use to driving (2000 GMC Sierra 1500 2wd). Only thing i noticed is i believe it needs a heater core... (smell it and windows steamed some) Hope it isnt a major job.... Sure it probably will be... Most are! And i noticed on the interstate in 6th gear running 65 i could feel the power back off very little about every ten seconds intervals and would be back and could hear it in the speed of the turbo too... Would last for like a second.... Does that mean something is weak, dirty, that injection pump you was saying? Also how can i tell if its a stock injection pump or not? I want to change all the fluids and filters in it tomorrow! I read last night where people recommend "RedLine Fluids" for the trans to help the grind... Any recommendations on Oils and weights of the fluids and type of filters? Sorry for all the questions guys but I really dont know and from the looks of this forum there is alot of knowledgein here! Again thank you guys for helping me out with this purchase! Much Appreciated!