2003 Dodge Ram 2500 5.9L Diesel 4x4 question

[EMT Snow]

We have the chance to get this truck in a package deal with a 5th wheel. It has 270,000 miles on it but they have done a lot of maintanence on it recently and have just put new load range E tires on it. Do you think this would be ok to buy with this many miles on it? I know Cummins can go for 500,000+ miles so basically with the package, the truck would be $8000 and they have recently put over $4000 worth of maintenence in it. It is in really good shape and runs like a new truck when we test drove it. Any and all replies would be great! Thank you and have a great and safe week!

Sincerely,
Snow and Anton

[lynn boyd]

no question the Cummins is tried and true. 8k sounds like an ok deal but one needs to look at the whole package to know. I would check both kelly bluebook and NADA for retail value for the truck and trailer. that will give you a pretty good idea of the value. GOOD LUCK! and enjoy

[RustyJC]

I don't know that any of us could give a reasonable evaluation of the truck's condition via the internet. If in doubt, my advice would be to invest in the time required for a trusted mechanic to go over the vehicle and to give you his assessment of its condition.

Rusty

[Cat320]

That's a lot of miles, nearly 34k a year. JMHO, and I know Cummins makes a fine and tough engine, but that's too many for me.

[Fjrogers]

I have have checked what like trucks are selling for at Manhiem Auto auctions. The wholesale price is $6,500. Depending on the work completed on the the truck and the condition the price of eight thousand is a fair retail price. A dealer would pay no more then $7,000 in my opinion. Good luck and happy travels!

[Cyclone Dave]

No doubt, that's a good truck. You don't mention what you will be towing. Consider checking the towing capacities before you buy.

[hacksaw1340]

Turbo and transmission is what I would be worried about. Having the transmission in my 2004 rebuilt today.

I agree someone needs to look it over very closely.

Oh, Also look up dodge death wobble, make sure the front end is right.

[Loren B.]

Snow & Anton,

Here is a link to a comprehensive buyers guide for Dodge diesel trucks:
Turbo Diesel Buyers Guide

At the bottom of that page is a link to download it in PDF format. It's a 3.2 MB file.

It should answer virtually all of your questions.

Good luck,
-- Loren