I found a 2004 ETH/DEE 305/555 (no cat, I don't want emissions controls on a diesel). Test drove it and came to the conclusion that I love the Dodge 3rd gen trucks!
Only one thing in particular that would be a problem is the seat.
The lumbar, or lower back was adjustable. Even with it set all the way in, I felt like there was too much padding on my lower back.
This particular truck has the premium cloth interior with the adjustable power driver's seat. Probably an easy fix but I'll have to drive one with the leather interior to see how that seat feels.
If it weren't for the Off-Road package I probably would have bought this truck. This option automatically specs the 4.10 gears. At 70 MPH my truck is at 2,000 RPMs with 3.54 gears. But 4.10s put it at 2,000 at 60 MPH or so. I do 95% of my driving back and forth to work, 100 miles a day. The 3.73s are a much more logical choice. My commute is almost all interstate and generally runs 70-80 MPH with the traffic flow. 410s would be great for someone towing at or near GCVWR but not for me.
Here are some pics of the truck. It's a sweetie that's for sure. If it had cab lights, and a manual shifter for the transfer case, and 3.73s, it would have been 100% perfect for my tastes!
http://n5cwm.dynip.com/dodge/
I like the new 600 Cummins but the exhaust sure does smell funky! I have no problem owning a 600, which I will end up doing since that is all that is coming off the line now. At least our trucks aren't hindered by EGR yet. I can deal with a cat but the smell just isn't right.
Well I'll keep looking. I'm not hurting for a truck since my current ride only has about 55K miles and is in excellent condition.
If anyone is interested in the 2004 ETH/DEE above it's at Allen Samuels Dodge right near the Houston Astrodome off 610 south.
Almost bought a 3rd gen, but..
Linear Mode
