Ram 1500 vs Ram 2500 Reliability

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MarkV

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I am curious what you guys have experience? Is the 2500 a mechanically better lasting? Is the 1500 a cheeped out truck compared to a 2500? I know a 03 Ram 3500 with 750,000 KM on it. And has had half of the issues my truck has had at 166,000.... Im kinda tempted to upgrade....
 

BlkZrx

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Depends on how you "use" your truck, wouldn't it ?
 

BlkZrx

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Agreed, if it's more grocery getter then work truck, the 1/2 ton rides so much better..

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Hootbro

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Quality difference between a 1500 and 2500 for all intents should be the same. The question is how you use it? If using both as commuters, grocery getters and taking the kids to soccer practice, then they would be comparable.

Most buying a 2500 are probably going to work it harder and will probably incur more expense on average.
 

bcbouy

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???? a heavy duty ram is more robust than a 1500 in almost every way.a h/d worked every day will still outlast a 1500 grocery getter.
 
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MarkV

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I dont beat up my truck, but i do use it. And im tired of having to fix it more then any vehicle our whole family combined.... Kinda embarrassing.
 

Hemi395

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The first thing that comes to mind when I think about the differences between a 1500 and 2500+ is the front suspension. A solid axle will always be more robust and generally more reliable long term than an IFS.

Then there's the transmission, transfer case, rear axle, rear suspension, and frame that are all heavier duty and more robust than the 1500.

IMO yes a 2500 will last longer and in general be more reliable with the proper maintenance. But the flip side of that is repairs are generally more expensive on a 2500+ due to the heavier duty components.

My next truck will be definitely be a 2500.
 

KarL45

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If you are planning on keeping it for a longer time, remember priorities can change. i.e. Wife wants to vacation using a larger trailer, you have some heavy hauling for a home construction project, you get the picture. Where a small truck will handle the small loads/ jobs, it won't the larger ones. The large will go both ways and still never have to be overworked. Just as thought. Also, reducing the "unloaded" tire pressure in the rear will also improve the ride empty. When not towing, i usually run about 62 in the rear and the monitoring system lets me get away with it and the ride/ tire wear are both better.
 

Core-Lokt

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I bought a 2001 Ram 1/2 ton 4X4 new. And I bought my 2005 3/4 ton 4X4 new. The 3/4 ton is more robust in every way. You know how people reminisce about a vehicle they used to have and got rid of? I got smart and realized I still own it.
 
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MarkV

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If you are planning on keeping it for a longer time, remember priorities can change. i.e. Wife wants to vacation using a larger trailer, you have some heavy hauling for a home construction project, you get the picture. Where a small truck will handle the small loads/ jobs, it won't the larger ones. The large will go both ways and still never have to be overworked. Just as thought.

That is kinda my theory.... Also I have driven 2500/3500 and quite like them. And did not find the ride bad...
 

hotkarl

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I like the 1500 ride much better. I'm in this thing a lot.
2500 or better is really impractical as a toy or grocery getter. The 2500 wore me down after spending 40-60 hours a week driving all over the place with it.
It's nice for the macho bragging rights for some but unless you really need it like for work or the camper/trailer, plowing, or whatever, a 1500 will suffice.
If you need macho just throw a set of 2500 emblems on a 1500.
Not trying to be a wise ass either.
 

SilverStreak88

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For 450K on ODO, that thing better be solid on the chassis and drivetrain... I could see you benefiting from a 3500 hauling hay for your camels.
 
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MarkV

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For 450K on ODO, that thing better be solid on the chassis and drivetrain... I could see you benefiting from a 3500 hauling hay for your camels.
You mean cows? And yea i could. But thats bigger then what i need. 2500 is just nice....
 
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MarkV

MarkV

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LOL!! I figured you were.
 
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MarkV

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23a9ad297bfee67479b079c8d2f7512c.jpg910c3d8e4258422f7711ba830bc1a92d.jpgb03bec84fd14f8d8d6767c8127dbf36c.jpgbe093bb7b00fab2688b28580f6b502d5.jpgHas hail damage. Needs new rubber and brakes. $11k. In mid west canada. 350k kilometres.
 
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Hemi395

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How's the body on that truck?


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MarkV

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It does not look bad. But i have not seen it in person.
 
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