Should I buy?

[cxvguy]

Hi all, new to the forum.I am looking at buying a 1998 dodge ram 1500 4x4 5.2 liter engine truck.It has a 7'' skyjacker lift,2'' leveling lift,37'' interco m16's,20'' moto metal wheels,and spray in bedliner.It has 155,000 miles.Exterior and interior look good.He is wanting $5200..is this a good deal or not?What are the pros and cons of this trucks engine,trans,and drivetrain?This will be my first vehicle(I'm 17)and first dodge.All opinions and help welcome, thanks.

 

[Metalizer]

Sounds like a mall cruiser being only 2wd. Also hope he geared the truck in the rear end to turn those big tires.

 

[Merc225hp]

Welcome to RF

A few things first

Get a compression test done before you buy it.
Read the Plenum sticky thread.
Unless the gear's have been changed it will be a slug.
It won't steer like a newer truck/car.
It won't handle like a newer truck/car

Then you have to feed it and thats a big 4wd truck it won't be cheap to run, I would guess 8-10 mpg city/hwy.

 

[cxvguy]

Thanks for the advice guys..where can I get a compression test done?What gear ratio do you recommend?

 

[Merc225hp]

Any good garage/shop can do one for you, expect an hours charge for labour. Gear ratio for 37's=4.56, $1000+ for both diff's to be changed. Lots are going to say you need to upgrade to the Dana 60+ diff's and they would be right. Look for a lifted 2500 gas or oil burner.

 

[cxvguy]

ok thanks.I'll check it out..

 

[BBartow]

Said every 1500 owner ever: "If I could do it again, I would buy a 2500".