here are the basics: i have a 2000 dakota quad, 4.7, auto, 4x2, 3.92 rear, towing package and just basically loaded. i traveled from the mississippi gulf coast to just 40 miles east of kansas city missouri which was 850 miles one way. i ran 70 mph the whole trip out of overdrive, and the rpm was 3500rpm. i pulled a 1200lb 6x12 uhaul trailer up there empty, and i averaged 10mpg, the return trip was with an additional 1000lbs in the trailer and still averaged 10mpg, i dont think the weight really matters to the truck, i think it is more the wind drag, my boat is more aerodynamic and it weighs 4900lbs and i average about 10 mpg with it also, i think once you lock out that overdrive its just gonna hang in the 10mpg range if your rpm's are in the 3500rpm range.
well i hope this helps any body thats interested in trips and towing.
robert
p.s. i know someone will ask why i didnt just rent a trailer in missouri, well it costs 125.00 to rent local for 4 days, it costs 250.00 to rent one way, so i figured in estimated fuel costs and i decided it would be cheaper to pull it with me than rent it there.
It seems like ordered vehicles arriving with different equipment than was ordered is a fairly common problem.
I would advise anyone ordering a vehicle to have the dealer fax you a copy of the order receipt that lists all of the options ordered that they get back from the carmaker.
Spoke with Ernie at D/C this morning, and he traced my truck to the rail head in Twin Oaks, PA. At least it is now in the proper (for me) state, and awaiting truck transport to the dealership. I'm getting very excited now. Hope all of the other "quad-waiters" on the forum receive good news as well.
Egad! Another front porch philosopher. The way things are going with my unit, I hope it shows up prior to the "dog days of August". A most august wish. Egad! Now I'm caught up in it.
but Richard III would not be nearly as patient as Bookitty has been. Anxious to hear about the Amber Fire Pearl machine. Thanks to both of you for your help on various and sundry questions when I was deciding to buy the Quad.
I saw an Amber Fire Club Cab before purchasing my black Quad Sport - I just thought it looked cheesy or something. The other day I finally saw an Amber Fire Quad on the lot and wished I was driving IT. Those two rear doors 'balance' odd colors (on most other trucks) so well you'd think Dodge actually knew it would work out OK. Interesting since their paint choices were locked in 2 years ago! I bet it's a classic someday similar to the old Chevy hugger orange and Dodge vitamin C colors. So keep it clean. ;-)
they are a changing - hey that almost sounds like a song.
Who would have thought that I would be associating with a bunch of Shakespeare quoting pickup drivers!!!!!!
Zoots, me thinks it is too much, I must away (there is a really interesting discussion going on 'in another place' on the merits of crimping or soldering connectors in a Jaguar XJ-S).
I should have listened to themacguy about his raves on the infinity high end system but I started being expensively economical when I ordered the truck. The base system is awful!...so this brings up some questions for you that have the Infinity systems. Where are the eight speakers installed in the truck? Mine has one in each door. If I go with an aftermarket unit from the car audio place and they install it will it void the electrical systems warranty? I have heard this but it is hard to get a definitive (and on paper) answer from anyone. Any suggestions for an affordable stereo upgrade? I need a good tuner/cass/cd. I could drop the tape if necessary. I listen to talk radio in the boonies. But I still want to listen to everything from Dire Straits to classical guitar. I have a pretty good ear but I am not a trained musician. Come on you audiophiles help this audio-ignorant hillbilly with some suggestions.
I wanted the steering wheel radio controls, but I would've had to pay another $1000 bucks to get it! Here's why: I didn't want the cruise/tilt, because I never use it. Its an option on the sport, standard on the SLT. I wanted a sport, so, no cruise/tilt for me, saved over $300. Then, to get the wheel controls you need the $600 top-of-line stereo setup. Since I'm also not an audiophile, with about half my listening being talk radio, that was also out of the question. Finally, leather wrapped wheel is also required, another $50 or so. For $1000, I suddenly didnt need the wheel controls. I additionally rationalized it by asking myself: what have we come to when I need some gizmo to save me from reaching over about 10 inches to tune the radio? Anyhow, if you really want to, for less than $600, you can buy yourself a much better system than the factory's, including an amp that'll make your ears bleed. BTW, there are only six speaker locations in the vehicle, four total in the front doors. There are supposedly eight speakers, and I read somewhere that Dodge says two of the locations has a double speaker, probably in the lower front door panels. My .02.
Got my truck last week. I ordered it with the stock radio. Went to Circuit City and bought a Hi-End Kenwood reciever: AM-FM CD, mask face security, wireless remote. Installed it myself in about 1 hour start to finish. Front dash piece removes easy.
Later I plan on replacing the stock speakers with POLK or Infinity coaxial 2-ways.
With plug in connectors you will not be "cutting" any wires on your new truck. I could have the stock rig in place of the Kenwood in about 10 min. and know one would know the difference.
For the same money as the "infinity system" you can have a whole lot more. I would reccomend looking at some of the stereo shops in your area and find a rig that meets your needs. I prefer Kenwood or Alpine... stay away from the bargin brands now is not the time to be cheesy...... ....otherwise you would be driving a FORD! LOL
Did the stereo install involve taking off the whole dash or just the part near the head unit? Which Kenwood unit did you buy? How does the new unit sound with the stock speakers? Sound like you got a good plan...sort of doing this is stages. Maybe I could add some better speakers in a month or so. My wife will probably make me quit writing checks pretty soon after truck, tonneau, nerfs, etc...
has anyone replaced the speakers, i love mine, but i tend to blow them out i like alot of bass, the ones in my quad are great, but im afraid that they will die like all others in the past. the real qustion is, do you have to remove the door panels to get the speakers out, or does the little grill just come off?
talked to "Jesse" at DC cust. svc. today. Went to BX status 3/10 (passed edit available for schedule), however, he strongly suggested I contact my dealer re: dealer # of allocations. I will let you guys know what he has to say.
E-mail me with your exact order and where you ordered. I'm only at 7 weeks but I'm interested in the exact process and and have a loan rate good for only x amount of time.
Dealer advised me he has an allocation received while my order was on restriction and he has been attempting to have that allocation applied to me, unsuccesfully to date. I beleive him, based on other parts of the discussion.
Does anybody have a clue as to how allocations are actually parcelled out, is it based on overall sales during x amount of time, specific sales of new stock, or a combination of what factors?
The sales manager told me the week of 2/21 that my 4.7/auto 4x4 Quad would be the first built in the zone once the trucks came off restriction - this according to the DC zone manager. Now they are off restriction and still no build date. I even went as far as calling and canceling the order last week, but reconsidered before I hung up - still no movement.
I agree that other factors, including dealer or zone allocations, are at work here, but I can't get any specifics and worse yet don't know how to get around it. Called the dealer two days ago to find out what the zone manager had to say, but haven't gotten a call back. That's not a good sign.
Tim, after I got past restrictions, I got hung up on allocation. Ernie told me that being I was ordering through a large volume dealership, that I should touch base with the sales person regarding the allocation issue. I did on a Monday, and they told me it would clear by Wednesday. And it cleared. The greater the volume, the more slots offered to a dealership. Stay on the dealer like "white on rice." Ozark seemed to move between the raindrops, but even though my unit is "shipped" I am still classified as a "Quadwaiter."
Hey guys and girls, how about helping out a student working on a doctoral dissertation by participating in a painless survey. Go to topic 1693. Thanks.
I bought the Kenwood KDC-7011S head unit and I am pleased with the initial results. As far as the install goes it's a breeze. There is a plastic trim ring which goes around the entire dash. Tilt your steering wheel to the lowest position to help in the removal. You can use a screw driver to help get the trim strip off, it is one piece molded held on by small snap clips. once it is removed place it out of your way. You'll need a small socket to to remove the existing radio. There are 2 nuts visible, that's it! Do not cut ANY wires, simply unplug. When you purchase your new stereo tell the clerk you need the face adapter and the radio harness adapter. Follow the instructions regarding matching the wires together from the wire harness adapter and new head unit. They're color coded and marked. Put everything back the way it was and .....walla! custom install.
Looking at the doors and door speakers it looks like you will have to loosen the bottom half of the door trim to gain access to the speakers.
Ozark, I spent the $30.00 and also bought the wireless remote. It is easier to use it than to reach across the dash constantly if you are a channel hopper. My 12 year old son thinks he's kewl because he can sit in the back seat and work the stereo. Life is so tuff! Reply with any questions.
PS check out kenwoods homepage to help find the receiver right for you..........later.
Went to Albany, NY on a business trip and happen to stumble on the train off-loading site. There was no restricted access so I did a quick drive through just to check out the neighborhood. I saw 7 quad 4X4's in various colors. Some were V6's but most were V8's. For those still waiting for a build date, you may want to head to Albany if you live near there. You could probably find one that met the need.
A little something I tried - for what it's worth - with a Corvette back when you couldn't buy one for love or money (nope not even money). I had waited for nearly 6 months to get my Silver Anniversary model and kept getting put off. Finally, I blew up in my backyard one evening after my uncle's neighbor showed up in his - bought from the same dealer no less! My across the fence neighbor heard me whining to the future wife about it and gave me a suggestion. He said to call the nearest competing dealer and ask for the (same) zone rep to call me immediately. He did. In less than thirty mins. he or the dealer had found what I wanted about 500 miles from my house, and that dealer was ready to move his 'at any price.' Since I had the actual VIN # in hand I called my original dealer back and asked him if he could 'dealer transfer' that one. He said he'd find out ASAP. The next morning I got a call from the sales manager of my original dealer and he fessed up about some delay problem with paperwork or some bs and said that mine would be shipping by the end of the week. It didn't. It showed up at my door on Sat. a/noon; detailed, full of gas, glove box full of 8-tracks and 2 Chevy promo models sitting in the passenger seat. Since then I've bought a car and a truck from the 'other' dealer. Took em all in for the once or twice a year free interior cleaning and oil change my original dealer gave his 'preferred' clients... for ten years. :-P
ps - hang in there. You'll smile about it someday. We've all gotta have war stories about 'how hard it used to be' for the grandkids and the reunions.
Sorry a late post, but just now logged on. The first Quad I looked at (or noticed) was an Amber Fire "Sport" with flares. Went back to buy it, but it was gone. Went to a small town dealer to order and looked at a "Club Cab Sport" in same color, and this almost changed my mind. I pictured the Amber Fire Quad in my minds eye and thought, "no matter how ugly the Club looks I remember what that Quad looked like". Walked back in and told the dealer "Make mine Amber Fire".
Well folks, today I received a call from my dealer that my Quad had arrived. Went to the dealership tonight (my wife drove me there) and did all of the paperwork. Went to delivery, only to discover that it was equipped with 3.92 ratio differentials. Refused the truck, salesman came over and showed me that the order manager had changed the ratio because you cannot get the 3.55 with 4.7 and 5 speed with towing. Problem is, that no one informed me and I have been waiting since 12/24/99. They were rather casual about the whole thing, but I was very upset, since no one bothered to call or inform me. They said that they could order me another truck, but that was all they could do. Now I'm wondering if the combination of 4X4, 4.7, 5 speed, and tow is available with 3.55. Unfortunately, it was 9:45 PM and the manager was not there. Please respond by post if you have the same combination and a 3.55. I can call D/C tomorrow, but right now I am crushed. Perhaps themacguy's prophecy is accurate.
Thank you troops. I did ask for an extended warranty, but the salesman is not empowered to rectify or do anything, and it was late in the evening and everyone else had gone. It does have limited slip. The salesman showed me where the order manager (mangler) had a written notation that only 3.92 was available with 4.7 5 speed. The fact is, that I was not in the loop. I am really upset, and anxious to find out for certain if that is true. If it is, I will be upset that the information was not passed on to me, if it is not so, then I will be livid.
I am holding in my hand the window sticker from a my delivered 4x4,4.9,5spd, lsd, 3.55 with towing package. It even states that the towing capacity is 4900 lbs with the 3.55 rear end. My salesman even wrote on the order "must have 3.55 rear end" and that appears to be what I've got. Try to get them to change it for you as per themacguy's suggestion. I know they can do it. I am very sorry that this happened for you. If we can be of service let us posters and lurkers know.
Checked with D/C, and the combination is completely allowable. Error on the order manager (mangler) and subsequently the salesman who was supposed to call me, but did not. Another case of the misunderstanding the word "restrictions." I spoke with the sales manager, and told him that although I wanted to be reasonable, an additional long wait is not an option. I told him that if I asked to use the Quad until another came in, that would not be reasonable. Or, if I asked to use his vehicle, that would not be reasonable. Changing the differentials, or gifting an extended warranty such as the one they proposed (7 year, 75K, $100.00 deductible, major coverage) for $1,298.00 would in my estimation combine fairness and reasonability. I await his call. The truck is really nice (or keen in my era) and looks super. Again troops, thank you for your support. Next phase; We storm the Bastille!
Thanks. That is just the sort of information that I was looking for and you have given me a little more confidence about the install. Just needed a place to get started. I have been net shopping the Kenwood and the Pioneer head units. Some are pretty cool. I am trying to find a combination cd/cass tuner 'cause there doesn't seem to be any good place to put a changer. Looked at a Jensen head unit that fits in the dodge dash (1.5 Din) but don't know anything about that brand. Thanks again for your info.
might start at DC by providing a copy of dealer entered order to the customer so that one might start out the process thus: DC Verification: "here's what your dealer ordered would you please review?" Customer: "Thank you so much, since it's a new line and there may be a long wait, we certainly do want to make sure we finally receive exactly what we ordered" I guess that would be 6 stars...
They would not come up with an acceptable offer, and I really did not want the 3.92. I could get an attorney, but that is not practical. While it is against my principal to re-order, I have done so, and they have promised to push through the order. Principal is an expensive hobby, and I really don't have the time to wade into battle. It was an honest mistake, but my mother always told me that I would have to pay for my mistakes; She never mentioned that I would have to pay for Reedman Dodge's mistakes as well. You're a great bunch.
I'd offer you my spot but I'm not sure you want it. Looking on the bright side, I'm sure the dealer is going to give you the difference between the order price and the nice Quad they now have sitting on the lot and will sell for more than you were going to pay?
I would suggest you stay away from Jensen and Pioneer, your problems with them I fear will be many and you'll be disapointed in the quality. just an opinion!
You could go with the Kenwood cassette unit and it appears to be plenty of room to mount a changer under the passenger seat(at least w/buckets).
The MASK Face is a great feature, never have to take the face off when you turn off the truck it closes disguising it from would be thieves. Also if they remove it from the truck they will have to enter in your security code to turn it on. Without it its just a brick.
For comparing units online, Crutchfield is pretty good. However, they are kinda pricy.
Found a great buy at Sam's Club today. It was so kewl I had to have it for the summer. For all you guys like myself who have the tow package you'll like this!
While shopping I came across a device that you plug into the hitch receiver of the truck. When assembled, you have a portable picnic table and an umbrella all built into this tailgators delight. The tailgate in the down position is the seat for 2 adults. perfect for camping,ball- games, parties or whatever. This thing even can be used as a bike carrier. Storage is a breeze it comes in a heavy duty bag (the size of a small suit case that everything is stored in).
Now for the best part............................. ......................it sold for $29.95!!!!!!!!!!
Thanks guys for your heartfelt support. Unfortunately, stupidity is not a crime. Were it so, most of the dealerships would suffer an extreme shortage of sales people. Stupid is defined as taking an order, having the order manager misinterpet the meaning of "restriction", then not informing the customer of the change. I realize it is extremely difficult to gather together enough inept people to perform thus, but Reedman Dodge is steep with this type of talent. They did offer extended warranty, and I don't think I would want them changing out components of or whole differentials. The level of trust is just not there. I have reordered, and I allegedly have been awarded a high priority profile, but it is difficult to believe some of these people. I truly appreciate your concern for my situation. If this is the worst thing that ever happens to me, then I consider myself lucky. Thanks again, I'll keep you "posted."
Well after a long week of traveling on business, I picked up my Quad on Saturday. Wow I love that truck.
Sorry to hear about your rear end.
I have the 4.7 5spd w/3.55lsd (& tow pkg), and I guess I will have to wait for a heavy load to try 1st and 3rd gears. Empty you only need 2nd, 4th, and 5th gears. Note the owners manual states that you shouldn't skip gears. I didn't think my wife would like the 5spd, but she says it's a lot easier to drive than my 5.0 5spd Mustang was, except the truck isn't a convertable. Would you believe that my wife made me pick up and haul a new diswasher home in the truck ON THE WAY HOME FROM THE DEALER. First scratch at 4.3 miles. Many more to come. Wait... it is a truck! Well it's bed time... I need to check on the truck, the kids, and the dog (in that order). Good luck to all (bootkitty) and to all a good night.
I have the AM/FM, Tape, CD player with 8 speakers and let me say... WOW. Best sound system I've ever had. (Of course a minivan isn't designed for great music.) I did the Volkswagon thing this morning (you know... Mr. Roboto). I put the CD in, turned up the volume... WOW.
Anyone have any luck getting a good deal on a 4.7L Quad Cab in either Sonoma or Marin counties. The ones I've visited don't seem willing to play "Lets make a Deal" Thanks!
Went KZM on 3/11. Visited Cleveland for a week. Lost its destination on 3/18, Regained its destination on 3/20. Sitting in Fonda NY since 3/21 with 569 other DC vehicles ( 38 railcars assumed 15 vehicles per railcar) Only 200 some odd miles to go to NJ. Maybee it'll be here by EASTER BUNNY time #$#%^&*()_ Signed Frustrated
Would like to hear your frustrations also.../. Maybee from all 569 of you?????
I would like to carry an Aluminium Ext Ladder on my soon to arrive Quad. Has anyone had any luck with the Mopar rack in the accessory catalog , the one on the cover. With the odd configuration of the Quad it seems that a bed mounted ladder rack is kind of out of the question. May I have ur comments???
One of my geophysicist buddies from Dallas who also happens to market kayaks part-time at various shows / locales these days, has a friend in Houston who makes & sells a removable upright that fits in the receiver hitch of vehicles and supports long loads over camper tops, etc. in pickups, and roofs on suv's. It is a fairly simple device for a welder to make, so you might have a local welder or welding hobbyist make one for your Quad for a song. I understand it's a very simple device. Hope this helps.
I too have been looking at the Mopar roof rack and other systems to carry two canoes and/or a canoe and kayak side-by-side on a Quad (Ernie said mine would be finished by tomorrow, 3-27.) At this point, I'm thinking that I could start out with the Mopar rack but only use the rails that are attached to the roof. It seems that both Thule and Yakima have "feet" that can attach to the factory rails and then allow you to attach their cross bars. These cross bars and their attachments for bikes, skis, cargo, and canoes / kayaks come in various lengths. In my case, I would still think that tying down the bow and stern of these water craft makes a lot of sense.
This approach may work for ladders too. I've looked at the trailer hitch type rack and while it does provide you with a cross bar at the back of the truck, you still need something on your cab to bear some of the weight and provide a tying down point. The last thing you want to have happen is to launch a ladder through the car in front of you during hard braking or in my case have a canoe lift-off and cause an accident behind me.
If you do go with a roof system, I hope you're strong and tall. If you start out with an already high roof on a 4WD and then add another 6"-8" - that's getting up there to lift a 12'-17' long ladder / canoe by yourself without scratching some paint. The only other way would be to "walk" the ladders or canoes up through the bed and then on to the roof rack. This method rules out covering the bed with a cap.
Also think about antennas. I keep my CB antenna on the same side as the AM/FM, which in the case of the Dakota, does provide for more optimum radiation. This keeps one side clear to come up and over onto the roof rack. Maybe you could solve that problem with a retractable antenna.
The roof rack seems like a good project for a design engineer. The Dodge Truck Rack (at least from the pictures) doesn't seem to enhance the look of the truck. Maybe it looks better in person. Spike50 / aolsen if you go the MOPAR route I'd be curious to hear what you think? Although not a roof rack, have you seen the product called a Hitch Hand? It is a bed extender that extends the bed approximately 39" past the edge of the lowered tailgate. Fits into the receiver hitch. Might work for canoes and kayaks. Looks like it might be a handy accessory for the Quad for hauling lumber,ladders, etc.
I keep coming back to needing / desiring a system that distributes the weight over as large of an area as possible. A big "foot-print" for the rack is better too. A 17' canoe is between 50-80# and hitting a bump or turning with two up there could dent in the roof. Don't know for sure but if the roof dents in the door jam mounted rack feet on Thule and Yakima may become dangerously lose. Can't see where an "in the bed" option works when the truck is 18' long, the bed can only hold 5.3' of a 17' canoe. Overall length would be about 30'. Big problem in Pennsylvania with 12' of canoe hanging out.
I, like 4daughters, am finally jumping in with my Quad story after months of interesting reading - thanks for all your posts. Ordered Feb 14, drove it home Mar 15, 4.7, lsd, 3.55, auto with a rear axle offset of 3/4" to the right though the bed lines up fine with the cab - all much like 4daughters. But, I've got concerns weighing heavy on my mind that I need to run past all of you. I don't like how my 'multispeed' tranny needs such high RPMs to get the truck rolling and does not translate engine speed into wheel speed efficiently - in other words it slips in a way I feel is unacceptable. If I romp on it I get the 4.7 V8 spunk you guys rave about but I can feather the gas 300-500 rpm and the truck doesn't do a thing. Also, when it's cold the fan clutch takes a minute or 2 to warm up and causes the engine to sound like it is running at 6000 rpm when I'm just creeping along. Getting out of my parking garage on a cold day (up 2 floors) is embarrasing as I drive the noisiest vehicle in the place and can hardly get the thing moving...i can't even get it to shift and simmer down. The truck has some nice things going for it, quiet highway, tight engineering, looks but this multispeed dog is sub par and must contribute to the lowsy gas mileage (ozark proposed topic). I could be in topic #745 - Dak tranny probs - but that one seems to be petering out so I tho't I'd ask this vibrant bunch if they have any tranny misgivings. Thanks for your time and your input if you have any and I hope I grow to like this thing more. KC
As for the setup you've got; mine's the same less the lsd. I like actually like the near vertical hp 'curve' because I'm used to Porsches & just sort of 'prefer' it. Corvettes I've owned in the past have the low torque it seems you're looking for - the only way to get that in a Quad is with the 360 (5.9 liter) setup. OR - possibly by remapping the torque curve (though it might not amount to much) with a chip bought specifically for that purpose.
Another way is by 'opening up' the intake (air inlet) passages with a free flow 'Airaid' type system - part #300-117, available at the end of April for a couple of hundred bucks, and added to headers and a more' free flowing' exhaust (smooth mandrel bent type)(Gibson, Flowmaster, etc.), should give the 4.7 some much more noticeable low end grunt. Of course to really make the 4.7 a torque monster you'd need to get more fuel delivered (higher psi pump), burn more efficiently (better plugs; possibly more voltage) and change the 3.55 rear to a 3.92. But the intake, a cat back exhaust and plug changes should give you a large % of what you're looking for - for less $$$.
The fan noise - as has been discussed before by much more knowledgeable posters than me - is simply the viscous fluid getting up to flow temperature when cold. The only way around this that I know of is to switch to electric fans for cooling. By the way, I've heard MUCH noisier cars & trucks that have the same process to go through when warming up. I ride (several different) large displacement [non-permissible content removed] multicylinder bikes. They have similar warmup noises, too. One positive aspect of the noise is that it virtually forces you to warm up the car (give it a stretch, so to speak) every time it's cold, which is very good for the truck. :-)
Comments
Allen
i have a 2000 dakota quad, 4.7, auto, 4x2, 3.92 rear, towing package and just basically loaded.
i traveled from the mississippi gulf coast to just 40 miles east of kansas city missouri which was 850 miles one way. i ran 70 mph the whole trip out of overdrive, and the rpm was 3500rpm. i pulled a 1200lb 6x12 uhaul trailer up there empty, and i averaged 10mpg, the return trip was with an additional 1000lbs in the trailer and still averaged 10mpg, i dont think the weight really matters to the truck, i think it is more the wind drag, my boat is more aerodynamic and it weighs 4900lbs and i average about 10 mpg with it also, i think once you lock out that overdrive its just gonna hang in the 10mpg range if your rpm's are in the 3500rpm range.
well i hope this helps any body thats interested in trips and towing.
robert
p.s. i know someone will ask why i didnt just rent a trailer in missouri, well it costs 125.00 to rent local for 4 days, it costs 250.00 to rent one way, so i figured in estimated fuel costs and i decided it would be cheaper to pull it with me than rent it there.
I would advise anyone ordering a vehicle to have the dealer fax you a copy of the order receipt that lists all of the options ordered that they get back from the carmaker.
jazztbone
Bookitty
Bookitty
p.s. "amber, ergo, zoom!"
Bookitty
Who would have thought that I would be associating with a bunch of Shakespeare quoting pickup drivers!!!!!!
Zoots, me thinks it is too much, I must away (there is a really interesting discussion going on 'in another place' on the merits of crimping or soldering connectors in a Jaguar XJ-S).
My God, has it really come to this.
stock radio. Went to Circuit City and bought
a Hi-End Kenwood reciever: AM-FM CD, mask face
security, wireless remote. Installed it myself
in about 1 hour start to finish. Front dash
piece removes easy.
Later I plan on replacing the stock speakers
with POLK or Infinity coaxial 2-ways.
With plug in connectors you will not be "cutting"
any wires on your new truck. I could have the
stock rig in place of the Kenwood in about 10 min. and know one would know the difference.
For the same money as the "infinity system" you
can have a whole lot more. I would reccomend
looking at some of the stereo shops in your area
and find a rig that meets your needs. I prefer
Kenwood or Alpine... stay away from the bargin
brands now is not the time to be cheesy......
....otherwise you would be driving a FORD! LOL
renegade69
Bookitty
robert
I will let you guys know what he has to say.
E-mail me with your exact order and where you ordered. I'm only at 7 weeks but I'm interested in the exact process and and have a loan rate good for only x amount of time.
Does anybody have a clue as to how allocations are actually parcelled out, is it based on overall sales during x amount of time, specific sales of new stock, or a combination of what factors?
I agree that other factors, including dealer or zone allocations, are at work here, but I can't get any specifics and worse yet don't know how to get around it. Called the dealer two days ago to find out what the zone manager had to say, but haven't gotten a call back. That's not a good sign.
Bookitty
Bookitty
pleased with the initial results. As far as the
install goes it's a breeze. There is a plastic
trim ring which goes around the entire dash.
Tilt your steering wheel to the lowest position
to help in the removal. You can use a screw driver
to help get the trim strip off, it is one piece
molded held on by small snap clips. once it is
removed place it out of your way. You'll need a
small socket to to remove the existing radio.
There are 2 nuts visible, that's it! Do not cut ANY wires, simply unplug. When you purchase your new stereo tell the clerk you need the face adapter and the radio harness adapter. Follow the
instructions regarding matching the wires together
from the wire harness adapter and new head unit.
They're color coded and marked. Put everything
back the way it was and .....walla! custom
install.
Looking at the doors and door speakers it looks
like you will have to loosen the bottom half of
the door trim to gain access to the speakers.
Ozark, I spent the $30.00 and also bought the
wireless remote. It is easier to use it than
to reach across the dash constantly if you are
a channel hopper. My 12 year old son thinks he's
kewl because he can sit in the back seat and
work the stereo. Life is so tuff! Reply with
any questions.
PS check out kenwoods homepage to help find the
receiver right for you..........later.
renegade69
KnK
ps - hang in there. You'll smile about it someday. We've all gotta have war stories about 'how hard it used to be' for the grandkids and the reunions.
cowtownkid
that my Quad had arrived. Went to the dealership
tonight (my wife drove me there) and did all of the
paperwork. Went to delivery, only to discover that
it was equipped with 3.92 ratio differentials.
Refused the truck, salesman came over and showed me
that the order manager had changed the ratio
because you cannot get the 3.55 with 4.7 and 5
speed with towing. Problem is, that no one informed
me and I have been waiting since 12/24/99. They
were rather casual about the whole thing, but I was
very upset, since no one bothered to call or
inform me. They said that they could order me
another truck, but that was all they could do. Now
I'm wondering if the combination of 4X4, 4.7, 5
speed, and tow is available with 3.55.
Unfortunately, it was 9:45 PM and the manager was
not there. Please respond by post if you have the
same combination and a 3.55. I can call D/C
tomorrow, but right now I am crushed. Perhaps
themacguy's prophecy is accurate.
Bookitty
Bookitty
Bookitty
DC Verification: "here's what your dealer ordered would you please review?"
Customer: "Thank you so much, since it's a new line and there may be a long wait, we certainly do want to make sure we finally receive exactly what we ordered"
I guess that would be 6 stars...
and I really did not want the 3.92. I could get an
attorney, but that is not practical. While it is
against my principal to re-order, I have done so,
and they have promised to push through the order.
Principal is an expensive hobby, and I really don't
have the time to wade into battle. It was an
honest mistake, but my mother always told me that I
would have to pay for my mistakes; She never
mentioned that I would have to pay for Reedman
Dodge's mistakes as well. You're a great bunch.
Bookitty (Quadwaiter)
Pioneer, your problems with them I fear will be
many and you'll be disapointed in the quality.
just an opinion!
You could go with the Kenwood cassette unit and
it appears to be plenty of room to mount a changer
under the passenger seat(at least w/buckets).
The MASK Face is a great feature, never have to
take the face off when you turn off the truck
it closes disguising it from would be thieves.
Also if they remove it from the truck they will
have to enter in your security code to turn it
on. Without it its just a brick.
For comparing units online, Crutchfield is
pretty good. However, they are kinda pricy.
Good luck..............LMK.
renegade69
kewl I had to have it for the summer. For all
you guys like myself who have the tow package
you'll like this!
While shopping I came across a device that you
plug into the hitch receiver of the truck. When
assembled, you have a portable picnic table and
an umbrella all built into this tailgators
delight. The tailgate in the down position is
the seat for 2 adults. perfect for camping,ball-
games, parties or whatever. This thing even can
be used as a bike carrier. Storage is a breeze
it comes in a heavy duty bag (the size of a small
suit case that everything is stored in).
Now for the best part.............................
......................it sold for $29.95!!!!!!!!!!
Later..........renegade69
Bookitty
Sorry to hear about your rear end.
I have the 4.7 5spd w/3.55lsd (& tow pkg), and I guess I will have to wait for a heavy load to try 1st and 3rd gears. Empty you only need 2nd, 4th, and 5th gears. Note the owners manual states that you shouldn't skip gears.
I didn't think my wife would like the 5spd, but she says it's a lot easier to drive than my 5.0 5spd Mustang was, except the truck isn't a convertable.
Would you believe that my wife made me pick up and haul a new diswasher home in the truck ON THE WAY HOME FROM THE DEALER. First scratch at 4.3 miles. Many more to come.
Well it's bed time... I need to check on the truck, the kids, and the dog (in that order).
Good luck to all (bootkitty) and to all a good night.
I did the Volkswagon thing this morning (you know... Mr. Roboto). I put the CD in, turned up the volume... WOW.
Lost its destination on 3/18, Regained its destination on 3/20. Sitting in Fonda NY since 3/21 with 569 other DC vehicles ( 38 railcars assumed 15 vehicles per railcar) Only 200 some odd miles to go to NJ. Maybee it'll be here by EASTER BUNNY time #$#%^&*()_
Signed Frustrated
Would like to hear your frustrations also.../.
Maybee from all 569 of you?????
May I have ur comments???
This approach may work for ladders too. I've looked at the trailer hitch type rack and while it does provide you with a cross bar at the back of the truck, you still need something on your cab to bear some of the weight and provide a tying down point. The last thing you want to have happen is to launch a ladder through the car in front of you during hard braking or in my case have a canoe lift-off and cause an accident behind me.
If you do go with a roof system, I hope you're strong and tall. If you start out with an already high roof on a 4WD and then add another 6"-8" - that's getting up there to lift a 12'-17' long ladder / canoe by yourself without scratching some paint. The only other way would be to "walk" the ladders or canoes up through the bed and then on to the roof rack. This method rules out covering the bed with a cap.
Also think about antennas. I keep my CB antenna on the same side as the AM/FM, which in the case of the Dakota, does provide for more optimum radiation. This keeps one side clear to come up and over onto the roof rack. Maybe you could solve that problem with a retractable antenna.
Although not a roof rack, have you seen the product called a Hitch Hand? It is a bed extender that extends the bed approximately 39" past the edge of the lowered tailgate. Fits into the receiver hitch. Might work for canoes and kayaks. Looks like it might be a handy accessory for the Quad for hauling lumber,ladders, etc.
Another way is by 'opening up' the intake (air inlet) passages with a free flow 'Airaid' type system - part #300-117, available at the end of April for a couple of hundred bucks, and added to headers and a more' free flowing' exhaust (smooth mandrel bent type)(Gibson, Flowmaster, etc.), should give the 4.7 some much more noticeable low end grunt. Of course to really make the 4.7 a torque monster you'd need to get more fuel delivered (higher psi pump), burn more efficiently (better plugs; possibly more voltage) and change the 3.55 rear to a 3.92. But the intake, a cat back exhaust and plug changes should give you a large % of what you're looking for - for less $$$.
The fan noise - as has been discussed before by much more knowledgeable posters than me - is simply the viscous fluid getting up to flow temperature when cold. The only way around this that I know of is to switch to electric fans for cooling. By the way, I've heard MUCH noisier cars & trucks that have the same process to go through when warming up. I ride (several different) large displacement [non-permissible content removed] multicylinder bikes. They have similar warmup noises, too. One positive aspect of the noise is that it virtually forces you to warm up the car (give it a stretch, so to speak) every time it's cold, which is very good for the truck. :-)