Best Mods for Under $100

[CharlieChaplain]

I’m about 58 pages into the mods, and I had to do a couple. I added the tailgate Dee Zee assist, and a cabin air filter. Also, I Fluid Film sprayed the entire underside of the truck. It originally came from Nova Scotia CN, so it was a little rusty underneath. Replaced the passenger side rocker and cab corner, too. Also bought a Uconnect 8.4 VP4 NA to replace the VP3 CN radio… curiously, it doesn’t have USB port’s available! The radio is a 2017 out of a Ram 1500 Sport. My old radio had them visible in the Media area, but didn’t have Nav, this one has Nav…
I used a plunge cut vibrating metal blade to cut the hole for the cabin air filter, which I bought from Amazon for $15 and change. Worked great. The Dee Zee tailgate assist was only $28 too. I like it.
Charlie

 

[SitKneelBend]

I’m about 58 pages into the mods, and I had to do a couple. I added the tailgate Dee Zee assist, and a cabin air filter. Also, I Fluid Film sprayed the entire underside of the truck. It originally came from Nova Scotia CN, so it was a little rusty underneath. Replaced the passenger side rocker and cab corner, too. Also bought a Uconnect 8.4 VP4 NA to replace the VP3 CN radio… curiously, it doesn’t have USB port’s available! The radio is a 2017 out of a Ram 1500 Sport. My old radio had them visible in the Media area, but didn’t have Nav, this one has Nav…
CharlieView attachment 574523

Ensure the gray plug on the back of the radio is plugged in. USB ports should work without programming changes. If it's plugged in there, unplug it and replug it with the power on and see if you notice anything.

 

[Grams]

I’m about 58 pages into the mods, and I had to do a couple. I added the tailgate Dee Zee assist, and a cabin air filter. Also, I Fluid Film sprayed the entire underside of the truck. It originally came from Nova Scotia CN, so it was a little rusty underneath. Replaced the passenger side rocker and cab corner, too. Also bought a Uconnect 8.4 VP4 NA to replace the VP3 CN radio… curiously, it doesn’t have USB port’s available! The radio is a 2017 out of a Ram 1500 Sport. My old radio had them visible in the Media area, but didn’t have Nav, this one has Nav…
I used a plunge cut vibrating metal blade to cut the hole for the cabin air filter, which I bought from Amazon for $15 and change. Worked great. The Dee Zee tailgate assist was only $28 too. I like it.
CharlieView attachment 574523

DeeZee will NEVER get My Business Again!

After I’ve been their customer for 3 trucks and a dozen years…. I ordered their latest tailgate assist kit…(3rd one I’ve installed, altho’ this design is slightly different) …and when it had an installation problem…I called “Customer Service”….and the gal got “short” with me when I questioned her suggestions…. she said, “If you don’t want to follow My instructions then do it however YOU want!”

I replied, “Madam, I’m not trying to disagree… I’m trying to make this thing work and help DeeZee better prepare their instructions..” …and She HUNG UP on me.

I called back and talked to ‘Jason”…. who acted similarly and told me “DO it however You want!”

The problem was/is: Their cable bushing is defective and their installation instructs, if closely followed, will result in a “Jammed” cable behind the gas-shock which will be damaged.

I found an aftermarket (copy-cat of the DZ previous design) which works perfectly, just like the previous design did.

There’s simply NO REASON to be rude to a customer seeking help.

 

[Grams]

Best mod for under $100…?? I’ve bought BOTH of these for my two Rams:

For late-gen trucks:
https://www.amazon.com/Compatible-Retractable-82215842AH-82215842AD-82215842AE/dp/B09NN114G6/ref=sr_1_3?crid=2E6INRMT506H5&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.hUdJvPBXC1kgBaO6jpCpfuoAFwMRTC0Lrlc2V9zQy7WLGp_93i5ogXqd7zDkRtcDGjOhWPNpjWOxllC3qwIqn5SC-5Km_3SaFQj6_3knEnONS-JjgvnaPpSoOAxGxKvht-cuho91pbqu-yk8pUflqB00g77Lz_ZP4hOTXA21qUSufIaU5NB3MgwD8k5A0-KfiTne8muXfW5sbsN-3AinWmotfDsuCaMxRwLuGlc1j70.MVkgUm9UtGVjmk8buHkjNfRoiuEXDuI46BP_h-n4NMA&dib_tag=se&keywords=ram+tailgate+step&qid=1761157374&sprefix=ram+tailgate+step,aps,269&sr=8-3

For earlier gens:

Amazon.com: 75306-01A Rear Bed Step Tailgate Bedstep fit for Dodge Ram 1500/1500 Classic/Ram 2500/3500 2010-2018(Excludes Dual Exhaust & EcoDiesel Models) Retractable Steps for Trucks,Folding Truck Step 7530601A : Automotive

Buy 75306-01A Rear Bed Step Tailgate Bedstep fit for Dodge Ram 1500/1500 Classic/Ram 2500/3500 2010-2018(Excludes Dual Exhaust & EcoDiesel Models) Retractable Steps for Trucks,Folding Truck Step 7530601A: Hitch Steps - Amazon.com ✓ FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases

www.amazon.com

 

[SitKneelBend]

Best mod for under $100…?? I’ve bought BOTH of these for my two Rams:

For late-gen trucks:
https://www.amazon.com/Compatible-Retractable-82215842AH-82215842AD-82215842AE/dp/B09NN114G6/ref=sr_1_3?crid=2E6INRMT506H5&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.hUdJvPBXC1kgBaO6jpCpfuoAFwMRTC0Lrlc2V9zQy7WLGp_93i5ogXqd7zDkRtcDGjOhWPNpjWOxllC3qwIqn5SC-5Km_3SaFQj6_3knEnONS-JjgvnaPpSoOAxGxKvht-cuho91pbqu-yk8pUflqB00g77Lz_ZP4hOTXA21qUSufIaU5NB3MgwD8k5A0-KfiTne8muXfW5sbsN-3AinWmotfDsuCaMxRwLuGlc1j70.MVkgUm9UtGVjmk8buHkjNfRoiuEXDuI46BP_h-n4NMA&dib_tag=se&keywords=ram+tailgate+step&qid=1761157374&sprefix=ram+tailgate+step,aps,269&sr=8-3

For earlier gens:

Amazon.com: 75306-01A Rear Bed Step Tailgate Bedstep fit for Dodge Ram 1500/1500 Classic/Ram 2500/3500 2010-2018(Excludes Dual Exhaust & EcoDiesel Models) Retractable Steps for Trucks,Folding Truck Step 7530601A : Automotive

Buy 75306-01A Rear Bed Step Tailgate Bedstep fit for Dodge Ram 1500/1500 Classic/Ram 2500/3500 2010-2018(Excludes Dual Exhaust & EcoDiesel Models) Retractable Steps for Trucks,Folding Truck Step 7530601A: Hitch Steps - Amazon.com ✓ FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases

www.amazon.com

Those are great prices. These used to all be $200-$300...

 

[Stefan N]

DeeZee with NEVER get My Business Again!

After I’ve been their customer for 3 trucks and a dozen years…. I ordered their latest tailgate assist kit…(3rd one I’ve installed, altho’ this design is slightly different) …and when it had an installation problem…I called “Customer Service”….and the gal got “short” with me when I questioned her suggestions…. she said, “If you don’t want to follow My instructions then do it however YOU want!”

I replied, “Madam, I’m not trying to disagree… I’m trying to make this thing work and help DeeZee better prepare their instructions..” …and She HUNG UP on me.

I called back and talked to ‘Jason”…. who acted similarly and told me “DO it however You want!”

The problem was/is: Their cable bushing is defective and their installation instructs, if closely followed, will result in a “Jammed” cable behind the gas-shock which will be damaged.

I found an aftermarket (copy-cat of the DZ previous design) which works perfectly, just like the previous design did.

There’s simply NO REASON to be rude to a customer seeking help.

Thanks, next will be a NON DeeZee then

 

[CharlieChaplain]

Ensure the gray plug on the back of the radio is plugged in. USB ports should work without programming changes. If it's plugged in there, unplug it and replug it with the power on and see if you notice anything.

Actually, I did. I will try it again with the USB plug disconnected and reconnected, with the key on. I have a feeling that the radio was flashed with an upgrade, and it disabled the USB port. It looks like the original ‘D’ type micro USB plug that was standard for many years. Not sure how I would get it working. I also tried a USB cable from an aftermarket stereo, which has the USB connector to plug into that port on the back of the radio. Seems that it should still show a USB port even though the media hub is either connected or not. That just supplies a connection for SD cards, and a type A USB connector. Since the 3G is no longer supported, there is no way to update the radio, unless the dealer updates are done through the OBD2 connection? Is that something that is possible?
Thanks for the suggestion.
Charlie

 

[SitKneelBend]

Actually, I did. I will try it again with the USB plug disconnected and reconnected, with the key on. I have a feeling that the radio was flashed with an upgrade, and it disabled the USB port. It looks like the original ‘D’ type micro USB plug that was standard for many years. Not sure how I would get it working. I also tried a USB cable from an aftermarket stereo, which has the USB connector to plug into that port on the back of the radio. Seems that it should still show a USB port even though the media hub is either connected or not. That just supplies a connection for SD cards, and a type A USB connector. Since the 3G is no longer supported, there is no way to update the radio, unless the dealer updates are done through the OBD2 connection? Is that something that is possible?
Thanks for the suggestion.
Charlie

Actually great point, I remember I had a similar problem on an RA3 and to get the USB working I had to buy one of these adapters and plug the firmware update directly into the back of the radio. After that I reconnected the USB hub and it worked (almost like the drivers were missing). Maybe try one of these adapters and see if it reads directly from a USB without the hub in place (the one for your aftermarket radio may work too).

Amazon.com : Atomic Market USB Host Cable Mini B Male to USB A Female OTG : Electronics

Amazon.com : Atomic Market USB Host Cable Mini B Male to USB A Female OTG : Electronics

www.amazon.com

 

[SeventyGTX]

I’m about 58 pages into the mods, and I had to do a couple. I added the tailgate Dee Zee assist, and a cabin air filter. Also, I Fluid Film sprayed the entire underside of the truck. It originally came from Nova Scotia CN, so it was a little rusty underneath. Replaced the passenger side rocker and cab corner, too. Also bought a Uconnect 8.4 VP4 NA to replace the VP3 CN radio… curiously, it doesn’t have USB port’s available! The radio is a 2017 out of a Ram 1500 Sport. My old radio had them visible in the Media area, but didn’t have Nav, this one has Nav…
I used a plunge cut vibrating metal blade to cut the hole for the cabin air filter, which I bought from Amazon for $15 and change. Worked great. The Dee Zee tailgate assist was only $28 too. I like it.
CharlieView attachment 574523

I did those on two of my previous Gen 3's and forgot all about them. But they worked great. Don't know why I haven't put them in my last two Gen 4's. I just forgot all about them I guess.

 

[diymirage]

I’m about 58 pages into the mods, and I had to do a couple. The Dee Zee tailgate assist was only $28 too. I like it.
CharlieView attachment 574523

I got to figure out how to fix mine
I installed one when I bought the truck, but the hole in the tailgate wallowed out and I haven't been able to figure out how to reattach the shock yet

 

[SitKneelBend]

I got to figure out how to fix mine
I installed one when I bought the truck, but the hole in the tailgate wallowed out and I haven't been able to figure out how to reattach the shock yet

If you contact DeeZee they "might" have a fix for this. I think they sent me a repair kit free of charge but it's been a while...

 

[diymirage]

If you contact DeeZee they "might" have a fix for this. I think they sent me a repair kit free of charge but it's been a while...

Couple of reasons why thats not an option, first off knowing myself, im sure i went with the cheapest option available, so i doubt its a Deezee brand

Secondly, I tried fixing it a few way so that 5/16 hole is now somewhere around 1, 1-1/4

I really just need to peel the tailgate apart and put a bolt with a fender washer on it

 

[Wild one]

This thread is almost 10 years old now,it needs to be updated for inflation,as i'm guessing what a 100 bucks 10 years ago would buy,it won't buy now

 

[diymirage]

This thread is almost 10 years old now,it needs to be updated for inflation,as i'm guessing what a 100 bucks 10 years ago would buy,it won't buy now

Might as well bump it up to 200 for the Canadians amongst us

 

[Wild one]

Might as well bump it up to 200 for the Canadians amongst us

At the way things are going,you might have to increase that to $500 for us Canucks

 

[EdGs]

Just did a muffler delete on my 2015 SLT, single exhaust.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0F4K4KP8C?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title

https://www.amazon.com/Elifecenter-Exhaust-Clamps-Stainless-Pieces/dp/B0CJ8M4K6Q/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_sspa?crid=AN7F6EF7QENH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.J1Js6EWUKndagEjXuCBt3Uog8wcgHLvpSv5o4xjInZlY8h7Xg6Y70WViyn6kavHa9x43skzn6o7dP9YOsWygKq1AMv81Sn_DSAz83GJpqHZw2C1gGvT00YgOOPzNBx6rJfGAEXGyUfVR73YT6BQ9hdEEtBi9YOPUski0CIfXQ1atl11VRMfwwJKLlNLDKXQ9S3-2cSU36nURZ6gEH-VqsQ.J1jxwBZzKxtmnaG6YFZosynqy_-FOzU6pUiEi1QZfCo&dib_tag=se&keywords=3+inch+exhaust+clamp&qid=1776519442&sprefix=3+inch+exh%2Caps%2C177&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9waG9uZV9zZWFyY2hfYXRm&psc=1

$32.99 for the pipe, $17.99 for the clamps, install took about 2 hours for my slow a$$. Had to cut ~2-1/2" off the pipe.

Really woke the sound of the Hemi up. If I really get on it, I get the Hemi Fart on the first shift. If MDS is active at slower speed, it has a weird rumble I can hear, but I know it always was there, hidden by the huge muffler.

Well worth the $50, and some time.

I will post vids as soon as I can.

 

[StateOfMind]

So this one wouldn't have qualified, except I found a smoking deal on Gorilla black lugs, actually got 24 for $89 on Ebay.
BEFORE


AFTER



yes, I can count. I only needed 20 of the 24, but it's never a bad thing to have some spares in the parts bins

 

[SitKneelBend]

So this one wouldn't have qualified, except I found a smoking deal on Gorilla black lugs, actually got 24 for $89 on Ebay.
BEFORE
View attachment 583171

AFTER
View attachment 583172

View attachment 583173
yes, I can count. I only needed 20 of the 24, but it's never a bad thing to have some spares in the parts bins

Agreed, my whole workshop is a spare parts bin!

 

[EdGs]

Just did a muffler delete on my 2015 SLT, single exhaust.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0F4K4KP8C?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title

https://www.amazon.com/Elifecenter-Exhaust-Clamps-Stainless-Pieces/dp/B0CJ8M4K6Q/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_sspa?crid=AN7F6EF7QENH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.J1Js6EWUKndagEjXuCBt3Uog8wcgHLvpSv5o4xjInZlY8h7Xg6Y70WViyn6kavHa9x43skzn6o7dP9YOsWygKq1AMv81Sn_DSAz83GJpqHZw2C1gGvT00YgOOPzNBx6rJfGAEXGyUfVR73YT6BQ9hdEEtBi9YOPUski0CIfXQ1atl11VRMfwwJKLlNLDKXQ9S3-2cSU36nURZ6gEH-VqsQ.J1jxwBZzKxtmnaG6YFZosynqy_-FOzU6pUiEi1QZfCo&dib_tag=se&keywords=3+inch+exhaust+clamp&qid=1776519442&sprefix=3+inch+exh%2Caps%2C177&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9waG9uZV9zZWFyY2hfYXRm&psc=1

$32.99 for the pipe, $17.99 for the clamps, install took about 2 hours for my slow a$$. Had to cut ~2" off the pipe.

Really woke the sound of the Hemi up. If I really get on it, I get the Hemi Fart on the first shift. If MDS is active at slower speed, it has a weird rumble I can hear, but I know it always was there, hidden by the huge muffler.

Well worth the $50, and some time.

I will post vids as soon as I can.

As promised, a couple videos

Startup from inside:

2015 Ram 1500 muffler delete startup

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

youtu.be

Revving and moderate acceleration from inside:

2015 Ram 1500 muffler delete revving and moderate acceleration

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

youtu.be

 

[SitKneelBend]

PSA. Just a reminder if you haven't replaced your cab vents and your truck is early to mid 4th gen, get the revised part. It has better vent flaps and a drip pan.

You can buy the heavy duty ones but they are meant for trucks without beds and the outer cover must come off to fit.