...is because when Ford bought Cummins, it was put into the contract that Dodge (DC) couldn't build a full-sized four-door heavy-duty pick-up until 2003. THAT is why it (the 1500's 'Quad-Cab') isn't a "Super-Duty" sized or Extended-Cab sized door/entry. It (technically) cannot be considered a "heavy-duty" truck because of its 1/2 ton rating... This info came from DC itself, so it should be fairly accurate.
I see where Dodge finally came out with a rebate through 3/5 but it only applies to Quad Cab SLT and SLT+ (regular cab not included) and its only for $1500. With Chevy offering $2002 on all models of Silverado and Ford $2500 on all F150's, I guess Dodge is content to lose share even with a newly redesigned RAM.
on this thread. Isn't anyone interested in this new truck? Haven't found much chatter anywhere...
Anyway, I'm still considering buying one, even before the 5.7 comes out. 2 months left on my F150 lease and I want to try something different. Local dealer is offering $4500 off sticker ($32600), 3.9% for 60months, 7/100 warranty. Doesn't seem too bad, and I think the payoff after 2/3 years will be low enough to trade in on an '04 if I still like it and want the 5.7. I figure I will give the 5.7 a year or two to work out the bugs...
Well to answer the discussed "power issue" or lack thereof, I have to chime in and say that the 4.7 with multi speed auto has plenty of oooomph. More than I thought it would after driving a 92 Dakota with the 318. Good idea to let the 5.7 get "worked out".
I haven't seen a single 02 RAM (any model) on the roads around here, there on the dealers lots, what gives, are they officially for sale to the public, are most waiting for a certain feature or for the MSRP to come down ? Rob in Houston
Neighbor has a new 4.7 Ram 2wd -Traded in a 2wd 97 Ram. I drive a 99 Silverado LT X-cab Z-71. We drive home the same way and "run into" each other at least 2X per week. He gave up trying to pass me with his 97. What a dog. Even though I have the added weight of a 4x4 I would leave him in the dust. The 2002 Ram is much faster than the old body style. I can still out run him - but just barely from a dead stop - I do better from a 60-80MPH on the hiway. The 2002 is very close in perfoprmance to the 99 Chevy 5.3. He thinks once his truck is broken in he will be able to kick my but. I tell him - it's a Dodge it will be "broken" before it is broken in. All in fun - of course.
The new Ram is a much better truck than the old Ram. When it is time for me to trade - the Ram will be on my short list.
After placing the order, and waiting what seemed to be an eternity (actually only 11 weeks), it finally arrived. I am the proud owner of a 5000lb 4wd Ram 1500 Quad Cab 4.7. I purchased it from Herbee Dodge, in West Islip NY. As a member of Costco, I automatically got the vehicle for $200.00 over invoice. But after a minimum of haggling, I walked out of the dealership with the truck for invoice, plus $300.00 off for having a commercial drivers license, and the bonus of the 7 years / 100,000 mile on the power train. The added bonus is that when I picked up the truck on 1/18/02, my dealer informed me about another $1,500.00 rebate. Talk about a homerun. I can’t say enough about Dodge, or the dealership. As far as the truck, it drives like a dream. The only thing that I kick myself for, is that I did not order it with the 20 inch wheels, but with the extra $1500.00 burning a hole in my pocket, the first time a tire even looks dirty its off to the local truck shop and order larger tires and rims.
bc: apparently the 5.7L was delayed precisely because they discovered one or more reliability issues in testing and decided it wasn't worth delaying the whole new RAM introduction. My experience in owning three Chryslers since 1989 and participating in several Chrysler boards here is that Chrysler engines are very reliable. I see (and have experienced first hand) lots of tranny complaints on the minivan boards; tires, vibrations, squeaks and rattles on the 300M board; but very very few complaints re: engine reliability and performance. I bought an early 300M with the new 3.5L V-6 with 253 HP and 250 ft./lbs.---pretty high output for its displacement and the first application for this new engine. It has performed flawlessly for 80,000 miles now, and there are zero complaints on the 300M board.
Bottom line from my experience is that Chrysler really has its act together on its engines....they know how to build them to last right out of the chute. I would expect no less on this 5.7L V-8.
When the salesperson was going through the initial paperwork on placing the order for my new 1500, he asked me for a copy of my driver’s license. Once he saw that I held a Commercial Drivers License (CDL) he stated that Dodge gives a $300.00 rebate for valid CDL holders. I believe that Dodge does this for most of their cars and trucks. Somehow I don’t think they would if you were to buy a Viper or Prowler.
As far as the truck itself is concerned, I am extremely pleased with it. I only have 155 miles on it so far, but it drives like a dream. Since getting my drivers license over twenty years ago, I have owned pick-up trucks. Even when I purchased my Durango in 2000, I still kept my Chevy 2500 4wd, just in case. But when I saw the “Mayor” it was time the Durango slide over to the wife’s side of the driveway and time to fork over some cash.
I ordered the truck with the following: Ram 1500 SLT 4wd short bed, 4.7 motor, automatic, 4 wheel anti-lock brakes, side air bags, fog lights, Infinity radio with cd/cassette, steering wheel mounted audio controls, two tone paint (Patriot Blue with silver bottom), limited slip rear axle, skid plates, and upgraded the tires to the outlined white letter & on/off road. The truck is a definite head turner. I will write back once I put some more miles on it.
You might just want to check prices on those 20" tires before you go with them. Installed, you're looking at about $1,000/set. I can see by the options you've ordered that you like your trucks well-equipped, but if these 20" are anything like most large "sporty" tires, they last about 20,000 miles, max. Fine if you drive 10K mi a year, not so hot if you're like us and put 20K mi on it every year. That's one reason I shied away from a used Ford Lightning, even though they're a relative bargain used (very low mi 2001's are in the mid 20's, originally drove out for $35,000 just months ago) the darn tires cost more than anything. I also heard 3rd hand that they make the ride a lot harsher. You may not care if you're a long-term owner, but a 20" equipped Ram could wind up being harder to get rid of come resale time. Not many folks want a truck with 20" rims as a work truck or basic transportation.
Just took delivery on 02 Sport 4.7 V8 AT. w/390 rear & Limited slip. WOW I just can't tell you how impressed the way this truck performs. I traded a highly custom 2000 Dakota quad 4.7 V8 AT. and there is a night and day difference! So far in 2 days and 800+ miles I can say this is the Mayor. The deal was $30865. Sticker $3000. off & $1500 Rebate, $15000.T/A Yes thats $11,365+tax. Not bad considering I'll never look back now. My dakota had the stock rear & no limited slip and let loose (smoked) quite regulary as the stock 31 Wrangler ATS were histery at 13000MI. I drove the Dakota 54,500mi and had 0 trouble. The Pkg. of the Wheels,390 rear & limited slip is a must.
The 20" wheel question prompted me to do some research. Seems Tirerack has them at $150 each, not too bad. And, the CTQG on them is 360, which is better than the 340 my old Ram's wrangler RTS had. I got about 30,000 out of them, towing a lot, so these should hopefully last 40,000 miles, unless I'm forgetting about something. That's worth considering.
Has anyone driven the 20" wheel and 17" wheel models back to back? Is the 20" too harsh? What are your impressions on improved handling with the bigger wheels?
I own a silver 02 Ram with 2wd, lsd, quad cab, upgraded interior, fog lights and adjustable pedals. I have 2200 miles on the truck and I love it. I did own a 1998 Ram extended cab 318 and I can say that the 02 is better in every way I love the 4.7 engine and have not found it to be under powered. the inside is tight and well laid out. no rattles or creeks. Truck handles well and the brakes are 10 times better. I get 17mpg on hwy. at 65mph. If you are in the market for a truck you would be wise to consider this one.
is on Speedvision (don't recall the name of the program). It is hosted by Tommy Kendall, Trans Am Champ etc. and he raves about the handling of the 20" Sport package on a short bed, QC 4x4. One thing I'm curious about (and would caution those seeking the ultimate handling truck), the 4x4 has a different front end suspension than the 4x2. I don't understand the fine points but the brochure says, "...this Ram has superb road manners. Credit goes to a wealth of improvements, including a new independent front suspension system on 4x4 models...All help raise the Ram's handling to the level of a premium SUV." Later, the brochure identifies the 4x2 as "independent coil spring" and the 4x4 as "independent torsion bar" suspensions. My point is, don't assume the 4x2 and 4x4 handle and feel quite the same with the 20" package.
Thanks for the heads up. It'll be great to see it getting put through its paces. The truck will be for my wife to commute in, and as a backup for my work truck. I get to drive it evenings and weekends only.
We're coming out of a '98 BMW 540i sport, and hoping to keep a little touch of handling prowess. The Bimmer is just too "high maintenance", attracts too much "redneck road rage" , and I'm tired of just waiting to come out of a local store one day and find it keyed. The wife has had 3 incidents of guys in beater trucks causing problems out here in the country in the last month. One on Christmas day, no less! I live in a county where the KKK still marches on MLK day, if that's a clue as to the envious and inbred nature of some of the more educationally and career-challenged (they work at the chicken processing plant) yokels in the area. I suppose they can't stand the idea of someone having something better than a rusted out '88 GM product. I'm a Georgia native, myself, so spare me the "you're a Yankee carpetbagger" flames, guys. Basically, she's just tired of the attitudes towards her car out there. The last incident required dialing 911...this guy kept following her and trying to run her off the road. (She was in traffic and couldn't just accelerate away, the obvious solution)
We just wanted something good looking, very safe, roomy, and fun to drive. It'd have been an American sedan except.....wait...they don't make anything like that anymore! Nice trucks, but the cars all seem to either be very boring or have other flaws.
Besides, in Atlanta traffic much of its potential is wasted anyway. The 3 grand or so I'll save each year operating a pickup instead doesn't hurt either. I'm looking forward to the Ram. If it corrects the flaws of my last one ('97), it'll be in my garage a long time.
@holes are out there in bimmers I don't want to be stereotyped. I've seen these brainiacs doing alot of stupid stuff and the last time I had a run in, I was in Columbus, OH and on a 360 loop-ramp in my diesel Ram. I had a 525 stuck to my back bumper all the way around, then when I went to merge he came out beside me (with 3 clear lanes to his left) to keep me from getting on. Apparently because I didn't take a 360 loop in a 7000# vehicle at 80mph I'm an #$hole. So I just forced him over and he gave me the bird. He should be lucky I'm not one of these wackos. I have a pretty cool head on me but my red-neck meter was getting high. There's just so many trouble makers in those things, it's easy to stereotype them. I'm not saying someone driving along minding there own business in a bimmer should be harassed, but I avoid owning one because it certainly happens. My brother had a 540 a few years ago and besides the fact he's a idiot driver as well, it was a very troubled car straight from the factory.
The show you were referring to was called "Dodge Test Drive" It was on Saturday in between the segments of the live coverage of the Barrett-Jackson auctions in Scottsdale, AZ. It is a half hour show that Dodge sponsors to highlight their product so it is very biased and not really an objective review. However, the show does give an excellent review of the features and differences between models. I don't know if that particular show will be broadcast again - you might want to check Speedvision's web site or send them an e-mail from their web page.
I think that the only way to make a decision on the 20 inch wheels and 4x4 versus 2wd issue is to actually drive these models back to back at a dealer. I would also compare the 17 inch wheel option back to back with the 20 inch wheels. The 20 inchers look great, but for my money and everyday use in commuting, the 17 inchers are the best answer from all aspects - including ride comfort - which would be a top consideration as a daily commuter. My $.02
I've owned Rams through the '80s & '90s and was pleased to see the new '02 arrive. I picked my 1500 SLT with the 5.9L, 2wd, and all the extras minus the leather. I've driven the 4.8L both in other Chrysler products and in the re-designed RAM and just felt more comfortable with the bigger torque in the 5.9L. Dodge could probably configure more horsepower out of the 5.9 and I may someday do it myself but, the extra torque feels great and makes towing a breeze. Haven't quite decided how to dress it up other than NURF bars (to help the Misses in and out) but will probably go with the at least the tool box. Not real keen on the spray in liners, have always used a bedliner if anything. Really enjoy the handling and quite, smooth, sedan like ride of this big truck. P.S. Get alot of bashing for taking on the "gas hog" 5.9L but, Hey...I'm the one putting the gas in it! And I love the power!!!
barto: valid points all. You can order the SLT and SLT+ with the "Sport Appearance Group" which includes all the racy body parts, fog lamps and really nice looking cast aluminum 17" wheels.
Bruce: Will you marry me? I can choose between my 540i sport and a brand new RAM with whatever I want on it?
Take an SLT model with the chrome grill work and bumper/valence and install the lower bumper/valence of a Sport model. This would remove the "heavy chrome" look from the low bumper area, provide a body color matching low valence area while maintaining the attractive chrome outline of the front grill opening. I can only picture this in my mind - but it seems to me that it would look really nice. I guess you would have to see it done to know if it works or not. Anyone seen a pic or have other thoughts?
It appears there are three different chrome trims on the new Ram. The ST and SLT have the full-meal deal, bumper and full grill treatment (the ST has a black honeycomb grill cover and the SLT gray). Both come standard with the giant fog lamp holes unfilled. The SLT+ has a rather bizarre treatment with chrome bumper and only the grill bars chromed (the grill surround is body color). Of course, on the Sport, both bumper and grill are body color.
Barto-I agree with you that its just too much chrome. The only one that really pleases my eye is the Sport monochromatic treatment. To deliver that big chrome bumper with empty fog lamp holes further offends the eye. I suspect you'll find it tough to get them to accept a custom order with a non-standard combination of grill and bumper.
I think it's a matter of personal preference. At first I liked the monochromatic sport look, but now I'm leaning back towards the chrome. They're both plastic, but the colored grill seems to look it more to me.
I ordered a Dodge Ram 1500 QC just before years end and it is to be in by end-February. Does anyone have any experience if Dodge dealers will also offer me the $1500 rebate which came about after January 1st?
I think if you take delivery during the period, you may qualify for the rebate. But sometimes the offer only includes trucks in the dealers's stock. I wouldn't trust your dealer, they're sometimes uniformed. I would try 4adodge.com and check there, and contact dodge directly if you cant' find an answer online.
I've changed my mind again. I prefer the sport's body colored grill. It de-emphasises the slightly over-large grill, especially in black. I will likely order a Ram reg cab slt with 4.7 v8, auto, side airbags, 20" wheels, sport appearance pkg, 3.92axle(included in pkg) limited slip diff, bedliner, slider, power pedals.
Another reminder that if you are a farm bureau member for 30 days, you can get a $500 rebate on dodge trucks other than 4 cylinder.
Chrome is in the eye of the beholder. Some people like the look of the heavy chrome of the late 50s. I think the Dodge Quad Cab looks great with chrome or monochromatic, but final choice is in the eye of the beholder. Car companies went away from chrome bumpers to enable plastic front and rear shrouds. Cheaper. You couldn't have sold a one of those in the 50s. The fog lights are a must to give the truck the right look and a good value at $105 or so with discount factory installed. All a matter of personal choice and we have plenty of that in trucks this year.
Does anyone have a suggestion for best brand and typical price for those chrome lower side rails with the little steps whatcha call em?
It will be the same as the 1500 series truck that was just introduced in September. Officially the 2500and 3500 will be available as 2003 models for sale in September. They are rumored to be shown at the Chicago Auto show about a week from now. There is always the possibility of an early release.
No luck finding a manual trans 4.7L with towing kit in the greater Los Angeles area. Even web buying sites like carsdirect say no luck. Searched at 4adodge.com without any luck too. Anybody have this set-up? Based on previous experience, I'm leary of about the Chrysler 'new' Automatic Trans, especially for the long term with medium duty towing (4000# trailer for 500 miles each month). Any advise is welcome. Also, what kind of prices are you getting? Does dealer invoice -$1,200 seem reasonable?
gwm-the rebate is paid based on delivery date. So, if your vehicle is delivered by 3/5, they owe you the rebate.
PW-Here in the Great Hinterland, MT 1500's are in stock on dealer lots but usually they're lower end trim and option levels. It seems that whoever fills out the order sheets puts an auto on nearly all the V-8's. After all, they're going to charge nearly $1K for it, so it increases their profits.
As far as what to pay, never, ever pay more than invoice for a domestic vehicle. During this rebate period that means invoice less $1500. So, on the deal you mention above, the dealer is actually selling you at $300 over invoice. Not a bad deal, but, he'll move $2-300 if he has to. Even at invoice, the dealer still makes his 3% holdback plus whatever dealer incentives the manufacturer may have. Most dealers view the holdback as the minimum profit they are willing to take on a deal, so it's off limits for the sales force. Just be a serious buyer and be ready to sign on the dotted line when you get them there.
The current plan is January 2003 when Dodge introduces the updated 2500/3500. The new 5.7 was originally supposed to be ready for the 1500 intro but they discovered some 11th hour reliability problems that required significant redesign.
hey, just saw the new pics of the '03 heavy duty ram on the dodge web site. the trucks sound/look promising except for one thing; the heavy duty crew cab is the same size as the 1/2 ton quad. this is extremely disappointing. i figured dodge would match gm and ford by building a bigger crew cab. guess i'll be staying in my s-crew for sometime to come...
Hey Mopar afficianados!! I have a question that the dealers out here in Colorado can't answer!! Why in the name of everything that makes sense would Dodge not at least "offer" some type of headrests on the back seats???? If any of you have sat back there, it's a lawsuit waiting to happen. I test drove a QC 4X4 4.7 Sport with auto tranny and, as a side note this engine works PERFECTLY WELL WITH THE RAM!!, but anyway, when I gunned it both me and the dealer were pushed back in our seats. What I'm getting at is when I sat in the back seat, my head and shoulders completely cleared the seatback, so if someone had gunned the engine, or if the truck were rear-ended, HEAD THROUGH THE GLASS!!!! Isn't this considered extremely dangerous and a serious issue that should be addressed by DC???? The Dakota QC has two molded headrests!!! I'm going to check the NHSTA's site for any reports, but I think the truck's too new for anything yet. Either way, all it would take is one incident and Dodge would be up to it's ears in a recall of their brand new truck, a huge law suit, and fewer people purchasing their great, new truck than already are!!! The dealer quotes that DC just didn't want to add headrests!! Any ideas or thoughts on this are greatly appreciated!!
Sunroof: I'm trying to decide between the Ram and the Screw, but there are a few things that are tipping the scales pro Screw. One, the above mentioned lack of headrests on the rear seats, and the lack of even offering a sunroof!! This truck would look great with a sunroof, but they don't even offer it!! I talked to the dealer and they will do it aftermarket for "$2000!!!!!!!" Ford basically gives it away for $800 compared to Dodge. Anyone got one?? For how much???
Headrests when they first came out either but they added them mid year. I have an 02 SCrew XLT with a moonroof and rear head rest, plus the back seats are much more blush for comfort then a ram quad slt plus's rear seat. The differance is the 1 foot in the box. 80% of the people don't use their full box 100% of the time. Those few that do and if they haul an 8 ft piece of whatever lay their tailgate down, with a 5 1/2 foot box, it will hang over a foot, still not the requirement of a flag. (In Wisc, it has to overhang 4'). The longer the box, the more things you pack on a trip that you never use. Check the Screw out.....
the rear seatback in the quad is sooo thin i'm not even sure what kind of head restraint they'd even be able to use. it would definitly have to be thin and small...
I was talking to a friend of mine that is in the fleet management field. He mentioned to me that there are two 2001 Dodge RAMs in this area that are testing "new engines and transmissions" and are part of a larger cold-weather test program in the Northeast.
He's seen the RAM line-up for 2002 and 2003. According to him, there is a new diesel and three new ultra-heavy transmissions being introduced between the summer of 2002 and new product release of 2003s. On another Web site I did see a reference to a new "459RFE" transmission.
With respect to the discussion about the RAM Quad Cab's lack of head rests and thin seats, I agree. I've sat in them but not while the truck has been in motion. I'm curious, too, about the potential of injury of rear seat passengers. However, would that alone cause me to scratch the RAM. I don't know.
We are starting to see 2002 RAMs around here on a regular basis. There are now six in the main parking lot at work. The owners are reporting fuel mileage as high as 20 mpg on the highway with the 4.7, lowest is 13.7 brand new. So far the popular opinion is that the 4.7 takes a little longer to break in. One person with 7200 miles is reporting a steady 17.6 mpg on his 18 mile trip to work.
Dusty
P.S. Oh yes. When I stopped by my local Chevrolet dealer two weeks ago to get another power window switch for our '90 G20, I noticed 15 warranty replacement engine blocks sitting on the service dept. floor ready to go back to the factory. There were also 30 or so "tagged" torque converters stacked behind the parts counter. It looks like since 1990 (like ours) Chevy still is having problems with torque converters. We've had two replaced.
I have a new '02 RAM 2500 extended cab long bed 4WD gas engine (best in these parts for off road in sand and bentonite). The rear leaf springs are the factory 4 pack with one extra leaf over the bumper. Stocks are standard factory and we know what that means. I drive E rated mud and snows for off road oil field work and usually have only 1000 lbs of tools and gear in the bed but at times I need to carry much more. Other than reducing tire pressure to 55 lbs or so I wonder if anyone is getting a significantly lighter ride on pavement using high performance shocks such as the Edelbrock IAS type. I would appreciate any advice you all have based on experience. The truck is great, a real workhorse but has too much bounce on icy roads with only 1000 lb bedload. WYOMUSKRAT
that 459rfe doesn't make any sense. the current 45rfe nomenclature means 4 speeds, 5 is the relative torque rating and the rfe means rear wheel drive fully electronic. understand what i'm saying??
btw, the auto behind the new cummins is supposed to be the current tranny (47re) but with some beefing up of the electronics (not sure what that means unless they are able to employ some sort of electronic torque management).
I couldn't find where I read about the 459RFE transmission, but I did hear about it from our fleet manager. He may have had the nomenclature wrong because I found the following reference:
>>The 545FRE five-speed automatic will be used with the 5.7 HEMI. This is a variation of the 45 RFE transmission used in the 2002 Ram 1500 and the Grand Cherokee. The only difference is the fact that fifth gear has a ratio of 0.67 to 1 which reduces rpm by 16% from the fourth gear. The result is better fuel economy and quieter highway operation.<<
This article also mentions a new 48RE for the diesel. I heard that this will also be an optional transmission on some gas engines.
I understand the nomenclature system that Dodge uses for its transmissions. In the old days everything was simple, Chrysler transmissions always started with "A," even the manuals.
The "F" in 45RFE appears to indicate Chrysler's newer "multispeed" design that incorporates two second gear ratios, an extra clutch pack, a different valve body and electronic management system.
I'm a Newbie as far as pickups go. My current ride is a Lincoln LS. I intend to order a Patriot Blue Ram 1500 SLT 4X4 SB 4.7L with everything but leather within the next two weeks if my dealer cannot find one locally. I have preliminarily decided on getting a Rhino bed liner (please tell me if this is a bad decision), but was wondering what the more experienced thought about a tonneau cover (Yes, I did read all previous posts but did not see anything specifically regarding tonneau covers). I mainly want the truck for hauling gardening and home remodeling supplies, but want the 4X4 for winter driving. I would appreciate any/all advise as this will be my first truck purchase.
I find Tonneau covers to be a complete pain, but I use the bed alot. Seems like they are always in the way. The soft-ones unsnap easily and roll up, but after awhile become hard to snap back on. The Hard ones are difficult to take off when you need to haul something big. They make one that's a combo, soft but lifts up in one piece. That's probably the best combo, but you would need to know when your going to be hauling something so you can pop it off in advance. They look good I'll say that, but can't think of too many uses beyond keeping the bed dry if your hauling something small.
I like the Rhino too, but I like plastic better because stuff slides better on it. I'm constantly sliding boards, posts, bags of shavings, etc. in and the spray-in's are bit too grippy and stuff hangs up on them. Good if you don't want stuff sliding around, bad if you want to slide stuff in. My $.02 and it didn't cost you a thing, what a bargain.
You'll notice a big difference in 4X4 vs the LS8. My wife really wanted one but we get alot of snow and my buddies sits in the garage thanksgiving through easter. He thought he could get by with traction control, but hence he had to buy a winter vehicle too. Nice car though, we've clipped off a couple trips averaging very high speeds like nothing.
I put an EX-tang soft cover on my truck about 2 years ago before heading off on a camping trip. Wanted my gear to stay dry. I planned on taking it off when I got home but never did. I think it only cost about $150 - bought on line - so IMO - it has been worth every penny. Next time around I may look at the roll top type. I would never want a hard shell because they are a pain to remove when you need to haul something large.
Comments
Mark
There'll be alot of pissed off Ram owners if that's the case.
Anyway, I'm still considering buying one, even before the 5.7 comes out. 2 months left on my F150 lease and I want to try something different. Local dealer is offering $4500 off sticker ($32600), 3.9% for 60months, 7/100 warranty. Doesn't seem too bad, and I think the payoff after 2/3 years will be low enough to trade in on an '04 if I still like it and want the 5.7. I figure I will give the 5.7 a year or two to work out the bugs...
The new Ram is a much better truck than the old Ram. When it is time for me to trade - the Ram will be on my short list.
I purchased it from Herbee Dodge, in West Islip NY. As a member of Costco, I automatically got the vehicle for $200.00 over invoice. But after a minimum of haggling, I walked out of the dealership with the truck for invoice, plus $300.00 off for having a commercial drivers license, and the bonus of the 7 years / 100,000 mile on the power train. The added bonus is that when I picked up the truck on 1/18/02, my dealer informed me about another $1,500.00 rebate. Talk about a homerun. I can’t say enough about Dodge, or the dealership. As far as the truck, it drives like a dream. The only thing that I kick myself for, is that I did not order it with the 20 inch wheels, but with the extra $1500.00 burning a hole in my pocket, the first time a tire even looks dirty its off to the local truck shop and order larger tires and rims.
Also....did you get auto or manual trans? I'm looking for more feedback on the manual. Is yours an SLT?
And...what's with the $300 discount for the CDL? I might go take the test for that.
Bottom line from my experience is that Chrysler really has its act together on its engines....they know how to build them to last right out of the chute. I would expect no less on this 5.7L V-8.
As far as the truck itself is concerned, I am extremely pleased with it. I only have 155 miles on it so far, but it drives like a dream. Since getting my drivers license over twenty years ago, I have owned pick-up trucks. Even when I purchased my Durango in 2000, I still kept my Chevy 2500 4wd, just in case. But when I saw the “Mayor” it was time the Durango slide over to the wife’s side of the driveway and time to fork over some cash.
I ordered the truck with the following: Ram 1500 SLT 4wd short bed, 4.7 motor, automatic, 4 wheel anti-lock brakes, side air bags, fog lights, Infinity radio with cd/cassette, steering wheel mounted audio controls, two tone paint (Patriot Blue with silver bottom), limited slip rear axle, skid plates, and upgraded the tires to the outlined white letter & on/off road. The truck is a definite head turner.
I will write back once I put some more miles on it.
Has anyone driven the 20" wheel and 17" wheel models back to back? Is the 20" too harsh? What are your impressions on improved handling with the bigger wheels?
We're coming out of a '98 BMW 540i sport, and hoping to keep a little touch of handling prowess. The Bimmer is just too "high maintenance", attracts too much "redneck road rage" , and I'm tired of just waiting to come out of a local store one day and find it keyed. The wife has had 3 incidents of guys in beater trucks causing problems out here in the country in the last month. One on Christmas day, no less! I live in a county where the KKK still marches on MLK day, if that's a clue as to the envious and inbred nature of some of the more educationally and career-challenged (they work at the chicken processing plant) yokels in the area. I suppose they can't stand the idea of someone having something better than a rusted out '88 GM product. I'm a Georgia native, myself, so spare me the "you're a Yankee carpetbagger" flames, guys. Basically, she's just tired of the attitudes towards her car out there. The last incident required dialing 911...this guy kept following her and trying to run her off the road. (She was in traffic and couldn't just accelerate away, the obvious solution)
We just wanted something good looking, very safe, roomy, and fun to drive. It'd have been an American sedan except.....wait...they don't make anything like that anymore! Nice trucks, but the cars all seem to either be very boring or have other flaws.
Besides, in Atlanta traffic much of its potential is wasted anyway. The 3 grand or so I'll save each year operating a pickup instead doesn't hurt either. I'm looking forward to the Ram. If it corrects the flaws of my last one ('97), it'll be in my garage a long time.
I think that the only way to make a decision on the 20 inch wheels and 4x4 versus 2wd issue is to actually drive these models back to back at a dealer. I would also compare the 17 inch wheel option back to back with the 20 inch wheels. The 20 inchers look great, but for my money and everyday use in commuting, the 17 inchers are the best answer from all aspects - including ride comfort - which would be a top consideration as a daily commuter. My $.02
Bruce: Will you marry me? I can choose between my 540i sport and a brand new RAM with whatever I want on it?
Barto-I agree with you that its just too much chrome. The only one that really pleases my eye is the Sport monochromatic treatment. To deliver that big chrome bumper with empty fog lamp holes further offends the eye. I suspect you'll find it tough to get them to accept a custom order with a non-standard combination of grill and bumper.
I've changed my mind again. I prefer the sport's body colored grill. It de-emphasises the slightly over-large grill, especially in black. I will likely order a Ram reg cab slt with
4.7 v8, auto, side airbags, 20" wheels, sport appearance pkg, 3.92axle(included in pkg) limited slip diff, bedliner, slider, power pedals.
Another reminder that if you are a farm bureau member for 30 days, you can get a $500 rebate on dodge trucks other than 4 cylinder.
Does anyone have a suggestion for best brand and typical price for those chrome lower side rails with the little steps whatcha call em?
PW-Here in the Great Hinterland, MT 1500's are in stock on dealer lots but usually they're lower end trim and option levels. It seems that whoever fills out the order sheets puts an auto on nearly all the V-8's. After all, they're going to charge nearly $1K for it, so it increases their profits.
As far as what to pay, never, ever pay more than invoice for a domestic vehicle. During this rebate period that means invoice less $1500. So, on the deal you mention above, the dealer is actually selling you at $300 over invoice. Not a bad deal, but, he'll move $2-300 if he has to. Even at invoice, the dealer still makes his 3% holdback plus whatever dealer incentives the manufacturer may have. Most dealers view the holdback as the minimum profit they are willing to take on a deal, so it's off limits for the sales force. Just be a serious buyer and be ready to sign on the dotted line when you get them there.
Sunroof: I'm trying to decide between the Ram and the Screw, but there are a few things that are tipping the scales pro Screw. One, the above mentioned lack of headrests on the rear seats, and the lack of even offering a sunroof!! This truck would look great with a sunroof, but they don't even offer it!! I talked to the dealer and they will do it aftermarket for "$2000!!!!!!!" Ford basically gives it away for $800 compared to Dodge. Anyone got one?? For how much???
http://www.picturetrail.com
He's seen the RAM line-up for 2002 and 2003. According to him, there is a new diesel and three new ultra-heavy transmissions being introduced between the summer of 2002 and new product release of 2003s. On another Web site I did see a reference to a new "459RFE" transmission.
With respect to the discussion about the RAM Quad Cab's lack of head rests and thin seats, I agree. I've sat in them but not while the truck has been in motion. I'm curious, too, about the potential of injury of rear seat passengers. However, would that alone cause me to scratch the RAM. I don't know.
We are starting to see 2002 RAMs around here on a regular basis. There are now six in the main parking lot at work. The owners are reporting fuel mileage as high as 20 mpg on the highway with the 4.7, lowest is 13.7 brand new. So far the popular opinion is that the 4.7 takes a little longer to break in. One person with 7200 miles is reporting a steady 17.6 mpg on his 18 mile trip to work.
Dusty
P.S. Oh yes. When I stopped by my local Chevrolet dealer two weeks ago to get another power window switch for our '90 G20, I noticed 15 warranty replacement engine blocks sitting on the service dept. floor ready to go back to the factory. There were also 30 or so "tagged" torque converters stacked behind the parts counter. It looks like since 1990 (like ours) Chevy still is having problems with torque converters. We've had two replaced.
that 459rfe doesn't make any sense. the current 45rfe nomenclature means 4 speeds, 5 is the relative torque rating and the rfe means rear wheel drive fully electronic. understand what i'm saying??
btw, the auto behind the new cummins is supposed to be the current tranny (47re) but with some beefing up of the electronics (not sure what that means unless they are able to employ some sort of electronic torque management).
>>The 545FRE five-speed automatic will be used with the 5.7 HEMI. This is a variation of the 45 RFE transmission used in the 2002 Ram 1500 and the Grand Cherokee. The only difference is the fact that fifth gear has a ratio of 0.67 to 1 which reduces rpm by 16% from the fourth gear. The result is better fuel economy and quieter highway operation.<<
You can find this at - http://www.car-truck.com/chryed/buzz/b121701.htm
This article also mentions a new 48RE for the diesel. I heard that this will also be an optional transmission on some gas engines.
I understand the nomenclature system that Dodge uses for its transmissions. In the old days everything was simple, Chrysler transmissions always started with "A," even the manuals.
The "F" in 45RFE appears to indicate Chrysler's newer "multispeed" design that incorporates two second gear ratios, an extra clutch pack, a different valve body and electronic management system.
Dusty
http://www.turbodieselregister.com/hdlaunch/04_Specifications.pdf
Thanks in advance,
Jim
I like the Rhino too, but I like plastic better because stuff slides better on it. I'm constantly sliding boards, posts, bags of shavings, etc. in and the spray-in's are bit too grippy and stuff hangs up on them. Good if you don't want stuff sliding around, bad if you want to slide stuff in. My $.02 and it didn't cost you a thing, what a bargain.
You'll notice a big difference in 4X4 vs the LS8. My wife really wanted one but we get alot of snow and my buddies sits in the garage thanksgiving through easter. He thought he could get by with traction control, but hence he had to buy a winter vehicle too. Nice car though, we've clipped off a couple trips averaging very high speeds like nothing.