2013 Ram 1500 express

[HafWhit]

I am new to the ram trucks and looking to purchase a 2013 ram express with a towing package on it. Anyone have any suggestions what I should look at that might be a problem. It has the 5.7 hemi and has a regular cab with 108,000 miles. Missing the spare tire and the wheels that are on it are 20 inch. How can I make sure I get the correct wheel at a salvage yard to fit the ram truck? Are there any typical problems with this particular model?

What size travel trailer might I pull with it? Looking at buying one a max of 26 ft and less than 6k?

 

[Jeepwalker]

The two biggest things that seem to happen with the Hemi are 1) Exhaust Manifolds warp and often break the stud bolts off (and make an annoying noise) due to repeated heat/cool cycles. It can be expensive to repair out of warranty. Just check that this truck's are good. 2) Lifters and cam failure.

By 100k miles, the exhaust manifolds have either already warped and been resolved, or maybe they never warped (if your prospective pickup isn't making exhaust leak noises). If the exhaust is leaking, then it can be some work and expense to get resolved. So just check that out. And the Cam/lifter issue you never know when it might be a problem (or never). There's really no tell-tale sign or anything you can do to predict if it'll be an issue.

Beyond that, as far as I know, the rest of the vehicle, mechanically in that era are pretty solid. Just the usual wear and tear maintenance items which should be able to be spotted (if there are issues) by having a mechanic or knowledgeable friend look at it. On the interior, some of the trucks that had large LCD screens, had delamination issues, ..so check that out. Air suspension can be an issue for some owners ...if this vehicle has that.

As far as wheels go, are you looking to go back to stock? You can check salvage yards. Look up 2013's on the internet to see what wheels you prefer. Any wheels from '09 to '22 (gen 4 ..5-bolt) will fit. Facebook Marketplace is usually full of used (good) wheels around here. And some on Craigslist.

Good luck, hope it works out for you.

 

[Docwagon1776]

20" wheels are the factory standard for the Express. Post a pic, or just compare to the ones in my avatar, to see if they are the OEM ones.

 

[HafWhit]

Not looking to replace the wheels just get a compatible spare just in case of a flat. Attached pictures.

 

[Phirebeard]

I think the OEM spare is a 17" steel wheel. A full size wheel should fit in the spare location with an OE size tire. Make sure the lift mechanism works. Though if the truck is from 'bama, you shouldn't have much rust lol.

 

[sjhdu]

Don't get the same 20" wheel for your spare. The anchor may be too big to pass through. I found out on my '08. Pretty sure 3rd gen wheels are interchangeable as well.

 

[JHoward]

Not looking to replace the wheels just get a compatible spare just in case of a flat. Attached pictures.View attachment 492155View attachment 492156

That's a nice looking truck.

FWIW, I still have my original spare and it is a P235/85/R17 mounted on a steel wheel.

My 2017 Express came with the chrome clad 20"×9" and if I should have a mishap with one of them they are expensive to replace, especially an oem/original.

 

[HafWhit]

Not looking to replace the wheels just get a compatible spare just in case of a flat. Attached pictures.View attachment 492155View attachment 492156

 

[HafWhit]

I decided to not get the truck. Asked to see service done on it and the copy indicated cabin filter replaced. Picture from my inspection.

 

[HafWhit]

Correct me if I’m wrong but shouldn’t there be an access cover?

 

[Dusty]

Correct me if I’m wrong but shouldn’t there be an access cover?

Yes, there should be IF it has the factory cabin filter.

It is possible that a cabin filter retrofit was installed post-factory, which requires cutting a hole in the firewall from the engine bay side.

Regards,
Dusty
2019 Ram 1500 Billet Silver Quad Cab 2WD, 5.7 Hemi, 8HP75, 3.21 axle, 33-gallon fuel tank, factory dual exhaust, 18” wheels. Build date: 3 June 2018. Now at 69088 miles

 

[Justin33]

Yes, there should be IF it has the factory cabin filter.

It is possible that a cabin filter retrofit was installed post-factory, which requires cutting a hole in the firewall from the engine bay side.

Regards,
Dusty
2019 Ram 1500 Billet Silver Quad Cab 2WD, 5.7 Hemi, 8HP75, 3.21 axle, 33-gallon fuel tank, factory dual exhaust, 18” wheels. Build date: 3 June 2018. Now at 69088 miles

Cutting hole in firewall? My truck looked exactly the same as this I cut out the spot and added a filter. Not sure what this firewall speak is.