Are some recent years of Cummins better than others

[Revery]

I am looking for a good tow vehicle for a 9000# trailer with hitch not 5th wheel. Planning some cross country trips and with a budget of 35K to 40K and liking the Laramie trim is there one year better than another for reliability, serviceability mileage etc? I'm new to Dodge and diesel, with my prior experience being with a under powered gas hungry SUV, I would like good power and towing experiences as trouble free as possible. Been using a 9000# rated SUV but it doesn't have the torque for these West Coast long grades, and forget it trying to clime thru the mountains. Help is appreciated.

 

[sandawilliams]

Anything with the 5.9 would be my choice.

 

[FCA Master]

The 5.9 would be my first choice. With that said, the 2014 and up is much better about ball joints than previous models. If I was looking to buy/build a truck for your purposes any late model 6.7 with an AS69RC would work...right after I deleted the after treatment system. The 68RFE can be made pretty bulletproof for the right money if you prefer a FCA built trans.

 

[Revery]

Thanks FCA Master I'm just starting my search and was debating finding a '06-'07 with the 5.9 vs a later model year to get lower miles, but didn't like the idea of all the added emissions equipment. Since I'm in California removal of the system will no doubt cause inspection issues since we have to pass the emissions test every 2 years to keep our driving privileges. I have no idea how difficult it is to remove and replace, may not be worth the advantage. Probably focus on a 5.9 with as low millage as possible.

 

[FCA Master]

Thanks FCA Master I'm just starting my search and was debating finding a '06-'07 with the 5.9 vs a later model year to get lower miles, but didn't like the idea of all the added emissions equipment. Since I'm in California removal of the system will no doubt cause inspection issues since we have to pass the emissions test every 2 years to keep our driving privileges. I have no idea how difficult it is to remove and replace, may not be worth the advantage. Probably focus on a 5.9 with as low millage as possible.

The problem isn't removing and replacing the components, it's the huge fines associated with removing them if you get caught.