Buying Guidance

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SamCassidy

Junior Member
Joined
Jun 12, 2017
Posts
15
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Location
Marquette MI
Ram Year
2009
Engine
5.7
Hello everybody,

I am new to this forum and to the Dodge community, I'm looking for some buying guidance in buying my first Ram. Previously all I have had is jeeps and was involved in the communities and I'm excited to be involved in this one as well. I'm looking at buying a 3rd gen Ram, gas, quad cab. My budget is between 5-6k the main use of this vehicle would be irregular short light hauling and the occasional 400-mile trip between homes a couple times a year. What should I look for and what should I avoid? Any inherent problems? I've seen a ton of people mention that their engine has been replaced around 100-150k, are these throwaway engines or are they vastly repairable? Any help would be greatly appreciated.
 

xtremewlr

Senior Member
Joined
Feb 12, 2015
Posts
809
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Location
Tucson, AZ
Ram Year
2004
Engine
Hemi
I have 191,000 on my 04 Hemi quad cab with the original engine and no major work, just regular maintenance.
 

MADDOG

Out Exploring Arizona
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My 3rd gen 5.7L Hemi had 140K on it and was running strong when I traded it in.

Not too much to worry about besides abuse, worn suspension components and service history on the truck you are looking for.
 

usocazy

Senior Member
Joined
May 11, 2013
Posts
292
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Location
San Antonio, Texas
Ram Year
2004
Engine
Hemi 5.7l
My 2004 Hemi has 187,000 original miles. Still running strong with just regular maintenance.

I've heard the diesels last a lot longer but will also cost you a lot more.

I know in Central Texas you might be able to find a 4.7l V8 Ram for about $6k with high miles tho. Not sure where you're located - that'll make a difference.


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SamCassidy

Junior Member
Joined
Jun 12, 2017
Posts
15
Reaction score
4
Location
Marquette MI
Ram Year
2009
Engine
5.7
My 2004 Hemi has 187,000 original miles. Still running strong with just regular maintenance.

I've heard the diesels last a lot longer but will also cost you a lot more.

I know in Central Texas you might be able to find a 4.7l V8 Ram for about $6k with high miles tho. Not sure where you're located - that'll make a difference.


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I'm located in West Michigan. I've have found plenty for my price point both with the 4.7 and the 5.7. now its just time to finalize on one specific one.
 

usocazy

Senior Member
Joined
May 11, 2013
Posts
292
Reaction score
45
Location
San Antonio, Texas
Ram Year
2004
Engine
Hemi 5.7l
I'm located in West Michigan. I've have found plenty for my price point both with the 4.7 and the 5.7. now its just time to finalize on one specific one.



I heard the third gens are prone to rust in wet/snowy climates. I'd check it thoroughly in every possible crevice for existing or potential rust.


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