2003 3500 suggestions.

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flaitguy

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Ram Year
2003
Engine
Cummins 5.9L
We just bought a 2003 3500 ram, 5.9 of course. There is no transmission temp gauge.

1. Should we add on a gauge or gauges (what others?)

2. Should we add on a tranny cooler and if so , is there a good brand?

3. There is a 3rd party fuel / water filter system, supposed to filter down to 2 microns. Is this a good idea or just replace existing ones with better filters?

4. The prev. owner suggested bags to give extra support to the suspension. If the intent is to pull a 5th wheel, maybe 13,500 to 15,500 GVRW, is this necessary or will it be better for it?

Thanks for any help.
 

MADDOG

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1. I would. I like having that gauge to make sure I'm not overheating the trans when hauling a 5'ver.

2. You have a transmission cooler now. It wouldn't hurt to flush it but it is there and sized appropriately.

3. Yes, those filters are a good idea. I'd clean or replace the filters routinely with each vehicle service. The other thing I'd do right now is replace any existing filter media (if there is replaceable media) for new stuff.

4. I'd not add bags until you find out whether or not the truck sags with the pin weight of the trailer. Given a round up figure of 20% for 5'ver pin weight to total weight, that 5'ver will add 2800 - 3000 pounds to the payload. The bags won't increase payload capacity but they will help with any suspension sag. I would think the 3500 will handle it just fine.

Do you have the specs on what your truck's capacities, weight, etc...?
 
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flaitguy

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Jan 4, 2017
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Ram Year
2003
Engine
Cummins 5.9L
Thanks for the reply. Just to clarify.
#3: I was looking at this third pary setup '03-'12 Cummins Fuel Filter Kit In effect, this puts a second series of filters on the truck, and you would recommend this or just use better filters that might now be on it from the factory ?
 
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