1999-2002 Ram 3500's

[Ddcattleco]

I've got a 2000 3500 4x4 Cummins that we've used on the farm. We're going to have to replace it (only 140K but repair expenses are killing us--read here after 100K warranty we've already spent 10K and it needs a new block now) and the bed we have will only work on the 99-02 cab and chassis trucks. Is any year better than the others? Did they fix some things between years or make some things worse?

[pind]

after late 01, there was a change in the block. earlier blocks were a "53" casting, and had a tendency to crack. Not all of them were bad, but the new ones are better.

Beyond that, late 01 and newer are 4 wheel disc brakes and 4 wheel abs. The interiors have ahd some work done to them, and the 6 speed tranny is pretty near indestructable.

If you need cab and chassis, 02 is the last year available of the dual wheel c&c truck, after 03 the only c&c available was a bed delete on the 3500 single rear wheel model. Dumb, but thats how they did it.

Happy hunting, good luck

[Ddcattleco]

Thanks for the response. We've also had a lot of front end problems with this 2000 truck, which I understand a certain amount of that is expected, but were the late 01's and 02's improved any? Also, since I have virtually no mechanical ability, any specific advice in looking at a used truck to buy?

[pind]

Front end issues were / are a given.

Something you can do, that requires very little mechanical aptitude. The DSS brace

www.solidsteel.ca

and make sure you have a good set of shocks, and possibly update the track bar to the 03 and newer version, or buy an aftermarket one with a lifetime warranty.

Watch for the obvious stuff, front tires wearing funny indicating bad alignment / ball joints. If there are any mods, make sure they are mild, such as injectors, air filter, exhaust, etc. try to stay away from fueling boxes and such.

Do a fuel pressure test on the lift pump, make sure its working properly, anything less than say 10psi at idle, the LP is junk. Vp44 pumps on the 98 - 02 engines really don't like starving for fuel, and will crap out if run for extended periods of low inlet pressure. FASS is a good, although pricey lift pump, water/air separator system.

If there appears to be excessive oil, or leaks, on 01 and newer, check the breather bottle on the front cover, most guys seem to forget about dumping it. I do mine every 2000 km, and also, wrap that bottle in an old sock or something. The fan will take the crankcase vapours and suck them up, coating the rad in oil mist, and causing dust buildup. The result is overheating, had it happen, didn't get too hot though, and things are still happy as larry. For summer work, I extend the blow by tube down, with some 3/4 heater hose, and tie it off to the sway bar. Letting it vent to atmosphere without the added inconvenience of the bottle.

I have noticed some hassles with fan clutches. Not the greatest unit, Hayden #2842 has an excellent warranty, and gives good service life.

There are other little quirks to these trucks, but beyond what I have mentioned, just look for the obvious. check the front wheel bearings too.

good luck