Yesterday (02/02/00) I visited my local Ford dealer, to check out the F-150 Supercab, and to glean information regarding the upcoming Sport Trak and F-150 Crew Cab. The reasoning behind the visit was to cover myself in light of the current restrictions affecting delivery of my ordered Quad Cab truck. The salesperson that I deal with at the Ford dealership is a friend, and the person from whom I obtained my present mount, a leased Expedition with a 5.4. I discovered that the Sport Trak is not to my liking, and the new Crew Cab is available only with automatic transmission. The reason that I am driving an Expedition, is because my company leased it for me, as they did not want regional managers driving up to distributors in a truck. It has to do with image and prestige, neither of which means doodly-squat as far as I am concerned. Prior to that I drove my '95 Dakota Club Cab SLT with V8 and five speed. It had an A.R.E. fiberglass lid, and I truly loved that vehicle. The Expedition was the first automatic transmission I had driven in many years, except of course for rental cars when traveling. I can't think of anything I like less, than driving through snow and ice with an automatic. Gilding that lily, is the electric over mechanical transfer case engagement. A problem waiting to happen, although I do admit that they have improved somewhat in time. After sitting in the F-150, and viewing the preliminary literature on the Sport Trak and F-150 Crew Cab, I decided to take my chances on waiting. I retired as of 12/31/99, and the Company told me to use the lease vehicle until the lease expires in early Spring of 2000. A very kind gesture. So here I sit, driving the "refinery's dream car". I feel that the 2000 Dodge Dakota Quad Cab rules. A sentiment that is shared by many of you within this forum topic.
Fellow TAMPA QUAD CABBER, see ya around. By the way 10 mpg is exactly what I got for the first tank of gas. The second tank got a little better than 12 mpg, the third tank went in her this morning so I hope it continues up. I will be making a trip to Miami next week so I should get a good idea of highway mileage then. 4.7/auto/3:55 ltd slip.
I noticed most everyone is getting the 40/20/20 seat configuration. I found a quad cab unlocked Sunday on a dealer lot, so I climbed in. It had a 40/20/40 seat - it seemed to be a pretty tight fit with the center armrest down - does anyone know if the bucket seats with the center console are any wider? By the way, 86 in a quarter mile is pretty impressive for any 4 door vehicle.
Hey! What dealer did you purchase with? I bought at Bob Wilson Dodge on Florida avenue. I was real pleased with the deal I got there. Hope my mileage improves as your's did.
POOLGUY, I prefer the bench as you can always put the armrest up for room if necessary. All but one of the Quads I looked at had the bench so I don't have a real clear memory if the buckets were any "better". Besides, I like the big armrest for storing all of my junk.
I posted several days ago after I got my QC- Love it even more-I must say it's exceeded my expectations. If this is the truck you want-be patient and wait. I think part of the purpose for the restrictions is to insure a quality product. No transmission horror stories here yet. Anyway, several months ago someone posted about tow hooks for the Dakota. Dodge wants 160 big ones for theirs. I think they're crazy. But they look like they are custom. Does anyone know where else they might be available?? Thanks in advance.
How about the problems GM had years ago with aluminum heads on cast iron blocks. Didn't they used to blow head gaskets? Dosen't the 4.7L have aluminum heads? Anymore updates on hard shifting with the new auto trans? Also could someone remind me of the wheelbase on the QC. By bud's Durango 4X is 115.9".
I had posted a question in Dec for tow hooks for my new Dak Quad Cab. I'm not sure exactly where the stock ones would mount but it definitely looks like you'll need the factory ones. I'll probably just go with a hitch and a hook that will slide into the receiver. You would think that every 4x4 should come with a set of hooks such as our 98 Blazer.
It is kind of you to think that the reason for the restrictions are related to quality control. The actual reasons are more in line with insufficient production schedules by vendors, and poor planning, forecasting and marketing feedback from Daimler/Chrysler. I'm happy that you have your truck and wish you well with it. I'm really only a wee bit jealous.
I find them much more comfortable than the 40/20/40, especially because you can adjust the lumbar support. Now, the Lumbar control IS rather cheap and cheasy, but it still works. It clicks into three positions.
I pushed back hard one time while driving and stripped the adjuster. Dodge replaced it. Had no trouble since. I usually have it set on the middle adjustment. The power seats help in adjusting the drivers seat in a million different ways to find that sweet spot for long trips. I just with it had a memory so if I or another driver change the settings, I could push a button and have it adjust back (like Silveradoes). The lumbar system is very poor when compared to the Ford F150 and Silverado power seats (I'm unfamiliar with Ram seats so I can't compare) but it is the best we can get in the Dakota so it will have to do.
I think Dodge should find better power seat units for the truck. Those of us that choose to pay for this option would likely be willing to pay a tiny bit extra for better lumbar adjustment system, seat position memory, etc. Those that do not want it can get the standard seats.
Thanks Chad for the info. I think the buckets are the way to go - I'm not very big, and I had a hard time fitting in the seat comfortably. I was hoping the buckets were wider. Power seats are nice, but I usually spend half my trip trying to get the seat adjusted the way I like it. Manual seats definitely limit your position choices, and sometimes that's not bad.
(sharp6)Most automakers have overcome the initial troubles caused by the expansion properties of the different alloys. It was just an engineering problem that needed to be solved.
On the 4.7L I understand they use a mirror finish and special gaskets that allow some movement without damage. Some designs use special head bolts designed to stretch and maintain constant 'pressure' on the gasket. Others have re-engineered torque specs (torque-to-yield) to ensure a better seal. Try this URL for further info. (http://www.aera.org/Library/tl95-11.htm)
Besides, the 4.7L was designed for longevty (Ref. the nodular-iron/graphite composite girdle, added piston ring sealing, chain driven OHV cams and intake-thermostat cooling system. ) If anyone knows of another street engine with a girdle, please post it here.
With that said... The 4.7 is not without its concerns although I have not heard of anyone complaing about this engine in any forum. (And I read for hours about the Dakota and the Jeep Grand Cherokee which has had the 4.7 for a couple of years)
I love those 6x9 mirrors on my Dak Quad! Also I added some factory wheel flares just because I like the look, but with the 8 inch wheels I think it will help save my paint job (from rock dings). The wider wheels stick out past the wheel well about an inch. The flare cover that easily.
I want to thank all of you who have posted messages here. It has been a great benefit to me when I bought my new Quad cab today. I ordered it on December 23,99 and it was delivered yesterday. It is the light silver color with the grey interior. It has all options except the sliding rear window. I needed a good truck that could pull a 26' trailer with dry weight of 4500 pounds and this fit the bill with the 3.91 gear ratio(the 3.55 can only pull 4,000 pounds),towing package and heavy duty package. You all are right, the 4.7 auto is a good running engine and the truck is so responsive. Of course this is just a quick response since I just got it, so I will keep you all informed. I am heading to Colorado for a few weeks at end of May, will let you know how she pulls. I am sure I will be doing short trips before that to test the water on the Quads handling capabilities. I also noticed the rear hitch said 3,500 pounds and before I closed the deal I got some answers to take away any concern. They put a type 4 hitch on the quad. With this hitch, the beefed up suspension, cooler, tire package etc. and especially the 3.91, you can tow 6,100. Without the 3.91 you will be stuck with 4,000 unless you move up to the 5.9 engine, then the numbers change a bit and go higher. I will be watching for the foaming oil and hope I don't have any problems with the trans. I spoke to Ernie at Chrysler several times( that was great infor.)and he said he hasn't had anything come across his desk concerning the trans in the Dakota, but the Ram is another story.I guess I had better wrap this up. Oh I ended up paying for the truck 22,200. The sales lady, Veronica was great.I bought it from Maggie's Heart of Texas. I hope the service dept. is as good as the sales department. This is my first Dodge so I can compare it to the Chevy's and Ford's I have had over the many years. Again my heart felt thanks all of you for the good information.
Of course the power seat and lumbar option is available even on the 40/20/40 (I've got them) but I'm 5'9" / 170# and the bench really took some getting used to. If the center section will stay put - I'm considering getting a set of Recaros or something. Though I am getting more comfortable (or less whiny) as the miles roll up. So many gizmos to buy - so little dinero left...
fireflyerr, ordered the flares for my 2wd too - they're in at the dealer, and... check them out at the site below.
bhorton1, take a look at YOUR truck with the new style 'runners' at [www.starboards.com] = very, very sharp.
for those of you worried about restrictions, i ordered my 4X2 quad loaded last friday 1/28 and called the dealer to get the von# this friday 2/4 and it already had a vin# and was in d status with a build date of 2/4. i think (hope) this means that it is well on its way to being delivered maybe in less than 4 weeks. hope this helps those of you worried about ordering just what you want
Hello all, First of all thanks for all the info on the Quad cabs. It's been a tremendous help to read all the posts. I'm now ready to order and i've decided to order a 4x4 with quite a few options. I wanted to ask about these "restrictions" i've read about. The dealer, who says they are the largest volume dealer in New england, says the truck will take about 8-12 weeks to get in. Is that a fair estimate? Also, the potential deal seems pretty straight forward except for $385.00 in "zone charges" that I've never heard of. Any comments on this? Thanks for the help. Tom (dalpilot1)
I have read a number of different comments about folks having the ticking noise. I do too. It's not too loud but, it is there nonetheless. The radio hides most of it, but I don't like knowing it's there - I wouldn't expect it to be.
I would like to hear from anyone those out there so we can compare notes.
Has anyone been to a dealer and had it fixed? Is anyone aware of a service bulletin?
Thanks to Bookitty for the info. You said the restrictions are for what i want to order, the 4x4 with tire and handling, limited slip and the 3.55 axle. Does this mean an indefinite wait? I still don't know exactly what is implied by "restrictions". Also, the dealer holdback is pure profit on an ordered vehicle. Do I have any leverage with this? The dealer wants to sell me the truck for $200 over invoice plus his $385 zone fees and a $199 "dealer conveyance". I told him I would be doing my homework and the way I figure it he's making over $1600.00 on the sale which I think is too much. Thanks again.
Not sure if the ticking is an issue or not. I am attempting to collect data from individuals regarding the ticking to see if there is someting common among those with tickers.
What engine / transmission was in the ticking vehicle you drove?
Thanks to everyone who has submitted into this board, its been a world of help. This is a great forum to get much needed info. I'm looking to purchase a QC soon here in Hawaii. I test drove one and loved it, however, the dealer would only come down to $4000 over MSRP. (All the trucks over here in Hawaii have a dealer markup of $6000 over MSRP. Apparently dealers here love to rape unsuspecting consummers, due to the high cost of doing business here of course.) I'm arming myself with all the data and plan on starting the haggle war soon.
A couple of engine questions. I've seen lots of 'love its' from the 4.7 V8 owners, but none from the V6 owners. I test drove the V6 and it seemed fine. Is the V6 a good reliable engine? Is the 4.7 that much better that I need to ignore the added cost and just go for it? Thanks.....Govno
Tom, $200.00 over invoice is not bad. You are correct in that the dealer will incur no holdback or floor plan costs, and that figure is 3%. I don't know what a conveyance fee is, and I would question that. My dealer is working on a $125.00 over invoice plus the zone fee (differs by area). We negotiated the price down from $225.00 over invoice after I mentioned that as an ordered vehicle, they would not be encumbered by the holdback, either in its entirety or proportionately. Restrictions are at this point relegated to shortages in vendor supplied items, and/or factory produced components. They are in no way related to safety or engineering issues. I would suggest that you read previous posts in this topic as well as other "Dodge Dakota" topics. It will require quite a bit of reading, and you might see some repetition here and there, but it will be a good learning experience for you. Until participating in this forum, I was not aware of the $500.00 Farm Bureau discount along with great gobs of information supplied by bright articulate contributors. There are a lot of guys and gals out there with something that will ultimately produce educated buyers.
(govno) I justified getting the 4.7 in several ways. (No specific order)
It is a V8 that sounds like a Ferrari
The window sticker MPG is IDENTICAL to the V6
More POWER than the V6
This is a heavy truck
Do not forget that if you are considering an automatic xmission, the 4.7L V8 has the brand-new 4-speed automatic that has to faces to it.
It shifts like silk and is very nice indeed.
It shifts with a bang and sometimes things break
However... the V6 is essentially one of DC's most reliable V8's with two cylinders lopped off. It is based on a 1960s design that has proven itself over many years. Reliability should not be a concern.
How do you tell by looking at the sticker what type of rear end the truck has? If nothing is listed, does that mean it has the 3.55? Also checked out seats today in a regular cab with a center console, seats look to be the same width as in the 40/20/40 setup - does anyone have any solid information on seat width? 99% of all Dakotas I see have the split bench setup. Anyone looking for 4X4 QC's need to come to Oklahoma City, found 3 gorgeous trucks ready to roll off the lot for $25k.
dalpilot1 You might look at the Business Link ($300) discount - all you need is a State Tax ID# at closing. It also gives you some other 'down the road benefits & parts discounts.' This is in lieu of the Farm Bureau Discount...
Bookitty Hey, if I'd known about the Farm Bureau deal I'd've sung 'Greeeeen Acres' with the best of em!
govno I'm not Magnum PI, but I think you ought to be able to ship one from Calif. for a lot less than 4k - I've shipped Porsches (and 1 Ferrari) from Germany to Tx. for 1.2 - 2k several times...
poolguy1 The axle ratio (3.55) is located on my window sticker in the center far right (as you read it), directly above (1 1/2") the highway mpg 20 in bold, itty bitty munchkin print... Also, most of the Quads I've seen in W. TX. have the buckets - must be to catch all the 'suckers' that pay above retail out here!
Restriction-Good News/Bad News (bookitty) Mon 07 Feb '00 (06:09 AM)
Spoke with Ernie a few moments ago, and he gave me the "good news" and the "not so good news". The "good news"; There are no more material restrictions on your order. The "not so good news"; Your dealer's allotment is on hold at this time. He further explained that as a large dealer that should soon clear. Also, once past build material restrictions, it would be unusual for the particular order to face that problem again, unless another component (or more) should suddenly appear difficult to obtain.
NOW READ THIS!!!
This is not a general lift of restrictions, and is applicable to this particular order. Not that it means my order only, but a group of orders that were processed within a certain time frame. Here's hoping.
The ticking I heard on the test drive was with the 4.7l/4 spd auto and seemed to be most noticeable when about to shift from 1st to 2nd on accelerating.
Getting ready to make the deal! Any specific information on fuel mileage difference between axle ratio 3.92 vs. 3.55 mated with 4.7 ltr. 4x4 automatic 31x10.50 tires? Dealer is no help here. Dealer says "may be a little difference". Thanks
Depending upon the terrain you traverse, the differnce may be minimal to a little difference. To explain this, when I covered West (by God) VA in my '95 Dakota 4X4 club cab with 5.2, 3.55 and five speed, there were some hills where I started to lose speed despite the efforts of the cruise control. If I hit them going faster, I did somewhat better, but I think it was Sandstone Mountain that could get me out of fifth and into fourth gear. With an automatic transmission, it would constantly be shifting up and down, but the 3.92 would not demand the same number of shifts as the 3.55. In that case, there might not be a significant mileage difference. On flat ground @ 60 MPH there would be some difference over the 3.55, but more difference @ 70 MPH. Pulling a trailer the 3.92 axle would not shift as often, and tend to equalize the equation. I am sorry that I cannot give you first hand information, only a little theory to think about.
I purchased My Quad cab Dakota on January 20, 2000 and noticed a fluid leak on January 27. It looked like and smelled like motor oil. I took it to the dealer on the 31st and he told me that two quarts of oil had leaked into the radiator. Great News Huh? My truck has been sitting at the dealership since that time waiting on the Chrysler Zone Rep to locate another motor. Oh yea, I bought the next generation 4.7L V-8. I had only driven about 435 miles and the engine had less than thirteen total hours on it. The dealer is telling me that replacing the entire motor assembly is in my best interest. I'm not sure I like the sound of that. I think the dealer or Chrysler should, in good faith, replace the entire truck and not just the engine. I did purchase an extended warranty. Looks like I may need it for the duration
bookitty, Thanks for the information. I would expect the dealer would have published EPA numbers for the vehicles produced. They could not provide me those numbers. Of course these EPA numbers are always subject to differences due to the situations you described. Also, specific mileage may vary due to exact position of the moon relative to the earths equator. :-) Thanks
Don't buy the V6. My experience with a 95 Ext Cab was to order the Quad Cab soon as it was available. The V6 doesn't cut the mustard. Slightest hill causes the transmission to hunt hunt hunt. Learned to take it out of overdrive, but that also is a pain. Even low hills are problems. The 4.7 is too good to pass up. Have you considered buying from the Dealer in Idaho and have it shipped via Matson to Honolulu? Understand the Dealer is very helpful and sells for something like $250 over invoice. Ocean freight is low, but it could be awhile getting from the Dealer to Seattle. Matson sails weekly. If Matson doesn't sail from Seattle, American President Lines probably does. Autos are loaded in open side containers, loaded on deck. However, autos have a low priority and are often left behind if the ship is full. Worth exploring if your Dealer wants $4,000 over invoice. Wish you well--Bill.
I'm curious if anyone knows or has read what the "rear wheel" HP and Torque numbers are for the 4.7 Dakota. I believe the 235hp and 290ft lbs. torque are taken from the flywheel? Also would be curious how much more hp & torque is lost in the auto trans vs the 5-speed manual by the time the rubber meets the road.
I ordered a Quad on 1/17 and via DC customer sevice have learned that it is no longer on "restriction" but is on "allocation". Surely I won't see this truck for under 30 days so I wonder if I could or should join my local Farm Bureau to try and recieve the $500 rebate. Does anyone know if the rebate would still be honored even after I've signed the deal? Obviously, had I known about the rebate beforehand I would have gladly plunked down $75 to join. Is it too late? Also, is the cd/cassette stereo essentially the same as the cd stereo (i.e. the same wattage,the same speakers,ect.)? I can't find any quads in this area to compare how they sound. Since my truck still doesn't have a build date I still have time to amend my order if I want to. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.
Okay you experts out there. When I get my new Quad can I disable the passenger side airbag or get a switch put on it. I've got an ten year old fishing partner that will probably occupy the passenger seat for quite a few miles and I'm concerned about horror stories that I hear concerning youngsters and airbag deployment. Thought I might ask some of you if you had any thoughts. Seems like the on-off option was available for the club cab. Is this going to be impossible or outrageously costly? Does the shop manual address this at all?
the farm bureau discount applies to all dakotas except the ones with the 4 cyl, i dont remeber it being 70 dollars to join and i just joined a few months back for the truck, you only have to be a member for 30 days to get the certificate form farm bureau, and you just bring it at closing and show it to the finance manager as hes typing up the final deal, it doesnt matter that you have already ordered your truck.
the farm bureau discount applies to all dakotas except the ones with the 4 cyl, i dont remeber it being 70 dollars to join and i just joined a few months back for the truck, you only have to be a member for 30 days to get the certificate form farm bureau, and you just bring it at closing and show it to the finance manager as hes typing up the final deal, it doesnt matter that you have already ordered your truck.
The interpretation of the discount parameters is I believe, that you must be a member for 30 Days prior to taking possession. It takes a while to get the card, but they date it from the day of application (or in my case that was so). The check is made out to the county bureau, but sent to the state office, processed and then forwarded to the local (county) office. I would call and make certain, but I think that if you are a member for thirty days before purchasing (not ordering) you are qualified. You then request the certificate from the Farm Bureau (email will probably suffice) giving them your membership number and they send the certificate. The certificate is presented to the dealer when the paperwork is processed at delivery.
i went in and joined and 2 weeks later i had all my membership stuff. i asked my local farm what would happen if i didnt have my card yet and they said it didnt matter, they knew i wasf a member and the individual offices have the dodge certificates, you walk in, tell them what your getting , they call dodge and get a coupon number and they give you the coupon, i was in and out in 5 min.
If you're a stereo nut, buy the top of the line job (RAZ), & if you do that get the steering wheel audio controls (RDZ). I gave $561 & $64, for each respectively. The next level down (& it's definitely a noticeable quality drop) is $408 & you can't get the little steering wheel audio control thingies. For the 217 buck difference you get sound that I couldn't reproduce for $1,500 in a Porsche I had 'upgraded.' A lot of this seems to be the depth of the doors + the natural 'rear box area' of the back seat. Plus, if you order the warp speed 4.7l / 4-spd auto combo and the tire / handling package, you won't have any time to reach for the radio anyway! Guaranteed. :-P
Well, we picked up our 4x4, 4.7, 5spd, dark garnet, slt+, loaded quad today (ordered 11/22). I spent a good 30 minutes going over the truck at the dealer, couldn't find a thing wrong, everything looked great (except they put the dealer sticker on that I asked them not to).
I love the truck! I put about 70 miles on it today in break-in mode. My only gripe is with the 40/20/40 bench seat, it's more like 35/20/35, not exactly uncomfortable, but will take some getting used to. We sat in a Durango with a bench prior to ordering, same seat according to the salesperson at the time, I don't think so.
I did notice the "idle hunting" right away, but it doesn't stall on me nor cause a problem.
Now to get 300 "break-in" miles on it before towing on 2/18. What a chore ;-) :-B
I am curious about this farm bureau discount. Is it only available in the states? Does anyone know if Canada has a program like this? (probably not cause this country sucks). It would be well worth it to join for $75 and get a $425 return on it.
Okay guys, Thanks for all the info! I ordered my Quad a couple of days ago while it was not on restriction. Got it loaded for $200 over invoice. (Papa's Dodge in New Britain, CT) We'll see on the time it takes... Now must decide on the bedliner when it comes in. Dealer had both Duraliner and Mopar and syas they are the same, only name is different but actually both made by same manufacturer. True? Any comments on the liner debate are appreciated. Also am considering underrail liner with diamond plates on caps. Any thoughts? Dalpilot1 (Tom)
First thanks to all who have posted - this is the first time in my life I feel like I'm buying a vehicle fully educated.
I began negotiation with local Annapolis MD dealer to order 4.7/5sp/SureGripAxle/Anti-Lock/4X4/Hitch, and he was saying invoice plus $250 _plus_ and advertising fee of approximately $475. Has anyone heard of the advertising fee - is it jive or legit? That would put me at about $25.5k versus the 25 even I hoped to get (not incl. F Bureau which I plan to do). I departed.
If anyone knows about the advertising fee thing please inform. Meanwhile I'm going to check out a tip I got from about 100 posts ago re an Aberdeen, MD dealer who is going $720 below invoice (incl. F. Bureau). No mention of $475 ad fee. A 90-minute drive is worth $1000 to me...
That was probably my post about cook motors in Aberdeen MD. They do have a Baltimore DDA,Metro, and other Charges of 479.00 but still are 720 under dealer invoice with FB discount which they will process (cost=50.00) Linda Verbeten cookmotors@erols.com
(I ordered closer to home for same numbers after faxing cookmotors quotes to a half dozen dealers in central Pa)
Comments
Bookitty
POOLGUY, I prefer the bench as you can always put the armrest up for room if necessary. All but one of the Quads I looked at had the bench so I don't have a real clear memory if the buckets were any "better". Besides, I like the big armrest for storing all of my junk.
http://www.cs.fredonia.edu/~stei0302/www/DAKOTA/order_status.html
Bookitty
Bookitty
I find them much more comfortable than the 40/20/40, especially because you can adjust the lumbar support. Now, the Lumbar control IS rather cheap and cheasy, but it still works. It clicks into three positions.
I pushed back hard one time while driving and stripped the adjuster. Dodge replaced it. Had no trouble since. I usually have it set on the middle adjustment. The power seats help in adjusting the drivers seat in a million different ways to find that sweet spot for long trips. I just with it had a memory so if I or another driver change the settings, I could push a button and have it adjust back (like Silveradoes). The lumbar system is very poor when compared to the Ford F150 and Silverado power seats (I'm unfamiliar with Ram seats so I can't compare) but it is the best we can get in the Dakota so it will have to do.
I think Dodge should find better power seat units for the truck. Those of us that choose to pay for this option would likely be willing to pay a tiny bit extra for better lumbar adjustment system, seat position memory, etc. Those that do not want it can get the standard seats.
Chad
PoolGuy
On the 4.7L I understand they use a mirror finish and special gaskets that allow some movement without damage. Some designs use special head bolts designed to stretch and maintain constant 'pressure' on the gasket. Others have re-engineered torque specs (torque-to-yield) to ensure a better seal. Try this URL for further info.
(http://www.aera.org/Library/tl95-11.htm)
Besides, the 4.7L was designed for longevty (Ref. the nodular-iron/graphite composite girdle, added piston ring sealing, chain driven OHV cams and intake-thermostat cooling system. ) If anyone knows of another street engine with a girdle, please post it here.
With that said... The 4.7 is not without its concerns although I have not heard of anyone complaing about this engine in any forum. (And I read for hours about the Dakota and the Jeep Grand Cherokee which has had the 4.7 for a couple of years)
fireflyerr, ordered the flares for my 2wd too - they're in at the dealer, and... check them out at the site below.
bhorton1, take a look at YOUR truck with the new style 'runners' at [www.starboards.com] = very, very sharp.
First of all thanks for all the info on the Quad cabs. It's been a tremendous help to read all the posts. I'm now ready to order and i've decided to order a 4x4 with quite a few options. I wanted to ask about these "restrictions" i've read about. The dealer, who says they are the largest volume dealer in New england, says the truck will take about 8-12 weeks to get in. Is that a fair estimate? Also, the potential deal seems pretty straight forward except for $385.00 in "zone charges" that I've never heard of. Any comments on this? Thanks for the help. Tom (dalpilot1)
folks having the ticking noise. I do too. It's not
too loud but, it is there nonetheless. The radio
hides most of it, but I don't like knowing it's
there - I wouldn't expect it to be.
I would like to hear from anyone those out there
so we can compare notes.
Has anyone been to a dealer and had it fixed?
Is anyone aware of a service bulletin?
Respond here or send to myersed@clas.net
What engine / transmission was in the ticking vehicle you drove?
this board, its been a world of help. This is a great forum to get much needed info. I'm looking to purchase a QC soon here in Hawaii. I test drove one and loved it, however, the dealer would only come down to $4000 over MSRP. (All the trucks over here in Hawaii have a dealer markup of $6000 over MSRP. Apparently dealers here love to rape unsuspecting consummers, due to the high cost of doing business here of course.) I'm arming myself with all the data and plan on starting the haggle war soon.
A couple of engine questions. I've seen lots of 'love its' from the 4.7 V8 owners, but none from the V6 owners. I test drove the V6 and it seemed fine. Is the V6 a good reliable engine? Is the 4.7 that much better that I need to ignore the added cost and just go for it?
Thanks.....Govno
Restrictions are at this point relegated to shortages in vendor supplied items, and/or factory produced components. They are in no way related to safety or engineering issues. I would suggest that you read previous posts in this topic as well as other "Dodge Dakota" topics. It will require quite a bit of reading, and you might see some repetition here and there, but it will be a good learning experience for you. Until participating in this forum, I was not aware of the $500.00 Farm Bureau discount along with great gobs of information supplied by bright articulate contributors. There are a lot of guys and gals out there with something that will ultimately produce educated buyers.
Bookitty
- It is a V8 that sounds like a Ferrari
- The window sticker MPG is IDENTICAL to the V6
- More POWER than the V6
- This is a heavy truck
Do not forget that if you are considering an automatic xmission, the 4.7L V8 has the brand-new 4-speed automatic that has to faces to it.- It shifts like silk and is very nice indeed.
- It shifts with a bang and sometimes things break
However... the V6 is essentially one of DC's most reliable V8's with two cylinders lopped off. It is based on a 1960s design that has proven itself over many years. Reliability should not be a concern.Bookitty Hey, if I'd known about the Farm Bureau deal I'd've sung 'Greeeeen Acres' with the best of em!
govno I'm not Magnum PI, but I think you ought to be able to ship one from Calif. for a lot less than 4k - I've shipped Porsches (and 1 Ferrari) from Germany to Tx. for 1.2 - 2k several times...
poolguy1 The axle ratio (3.55) is located on my window sticker in the center far right (as you read it), directly above (1 1/2") the highway mpg 20 in bold, itty bitty munchkin print... Also, most of the Quads I've seen in W. TX. have the buckets - must be to catch all the 'suckers' that pay above retail out here!
Spoke with Ernie a few moments ago, and he gave me
the "good news" and the "not so good news". The
"good news"; There are no more material
restrictions on your order. The "not so good
news"; Your dealer's allotment is on hold at this
time. He further explained that as a large dealer
that should soon clear. Also, once past build
material restrictions, it would be unusual for the
particular order to face that problem again, unless
another component (or more) should suddenly appear
difficult to obtain.
NOW READ THIS!!!
This is not a general lift of restrictions, and is
applicable to this particular order. Not that it
means my order only, but a group of orders that
were processed within a certain time frame. Here's
hoping.
Bookitty
Bookitty
Thanks for the information. I would expect the dealer would have published EPA numbers for the vehicles produced. They could not provide me those numbers. Of course these EPA numbers are always subject to differences due to the situations you described. Also, specific mileage may vary due to exact position of the moon relative to the earths equator. :-)
Thanks
Thanks...
Also, is the cd/cassette stereo essentially the same as the cd stereo (i.e. the same wattage,the same speakers,ect.)? I can't find any quads in this area to compare how they sound. Since my truck still doesn't have a build date I still have time to amend my order if I want to. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.
good luck,
robert
good luck,
robert
Bookitty
good luck,
robert
I love the truck! I put about 70 miles on it today in break-in mode. My only gripe is with the 40/20/40 bench seat, it's more like 35/20/35, not exactly uncomfortable, but will take some getting used to. We sat in a Durango with a bench prior to ordering, same seat according to the salesperson at the time, I don't think so.
I did notice the "idle hunting" right away, but it doesn't stall on me nor cause a problem.
Now to get 300 "break-in" miles on it before towing on 2/18. What a chore ;-) :-B
-Curt
Thanks!
1) I know of no farm bureau equivalent in Canada, but have a look at the link that dalpilot posted - you may be able to find something.
2) This country doesn't suck.
I began negotiation with local Annapolis MD dealer to order 4.7/5sp/SureGripAxle/Anti-Lock/4X4/Hitch, and he was saying invoice plus $250 _plus_ and advertising fee of approximately $475. Has anyone heard of the advertising fee - is it jive or legit? That would put me at about $25.5k versus the 25 even I hoped to get (not incl. F Bureau which I plan to do). I departed.
If anyone knows about the advertising fee thing please inform. Meanwhile I'm going to check out a tip I got from about 100 posts ago re an Aberdeen, MD dealer who is going $720 below invoice (incl. F. Bureau). No mention of $475 ad fee. A 90-minute drive is worth $1000 to me...
-Joe
Linda Verbeten cookmotors@erols.com
(I ordered closer to home for same numbers after faxing cookmotors quotes to a half dozen dealers in central Pa)