Q&A: what’s the best model years of Dodge Ram Cummins?

[@palcho8857]

Great video as usual very informative. Recently, I switched to 2004.5 2500 123k Cummins auto trans this year from 2008 hemi. I love Cummins sound. Learning to upgrade weak points on my truck (currently the truck is all stock). Appreciate your Q&A

[@tommygreist9560]

I have an 06 2wd....been a very great truck. Great video.

[@livingeveryday777]

Had an 02.5, last of the 2nd gen 5.9 24V turbo. Sold it at 298 miles for $6500 and it still had its original unserviced transmission (minus fluid changes). So far my favourite while I’ve ever owned. BUT this week I’m picking up an early 03 with long box. So excited!

[@jerrettkihne2174]

This is the best explanation of this I have ever seen I have a 2006 with a messed up dash and my dad has a 2003 that never skipped beat

[@jamesb3092]

I own a 2006 mega cab 3500. The 06 was the last full year of the 5.9. In 07 it was a split year early being the 5.9 and late 2007.5 was the first 6.7 Cummins. Love my truck, has 210k miles with zero major issues. I’m going to put a Fass or Air Dog lift pump on it soon and probably replace the injectors afterwards, just to keep it reliable. At 24k miles I replaced the exhaust with a Banks turbo back 4” high flow Banks muffler, gutted cat. Also put in Banks intercooler, Ram Air cold Air intake and the Banks monster Ram intake horn. Edge Juice with attitude programmer. I get 19mpg unloaded on the highway with programmer on economy and couldn’t be happier with the truck. It’s my DD.

[@Alexjay1234]

Great video! Thanks for the information!

[@ryanvanrunkle]

Thanks for the informed opinions!

[@MarionBlair]

Great look back! You know your trucks!

[@trentm7964]

Dig your videos. Very informative. Love my 03 HO.

[@amolinari9]

Hell yeah awesome vid man. 07 for me esp if it’s an auto. Otherwise I’d go for the 18 as it was the last year of the 4th gen and g56!

[@shelbak65]

thank you great job

[@tkilg7169]

For me this is the best video you've done, because this info is valuable to me. I haven't seen any other vid that ranks these trucks as well, even if it is only your opinion My '03 5.9 is doing fine for me, since I replaced the heater/a/c plastic door gear problem with metal gears,(Heater Treater mod), taped up the dash and put a nice cap on it, and added a triple disk billeted torque converter. also a larger valve body for the 48RE tranny. I've owned it since new, and have about 180,000 miles on it. Many people ask me if I want to sell it, and I always laugh. I'm 70 now, and I will keep it and probably pass it on to my son.......if I don't get myself buried in it. Lol.

[@calvinsanders575]

early 04 HO, looked at everything around my area and with the market, was the best bang for the buck. Kind of slow compared to ford diesel but when i need to work on it way easier and enough money and mods it won't be slow

[@steveb2079]

Awesome video appreciate all the insight. Been looking at a 2012 Wkth 150k. Any thoughts on a 2012? Any info appreciated. Been doing as much research as I can but figured it couldn’t hurt to ask a group with more knowledge on the topic. Thanks I’m advance for any responses.

[@Bman01234]

Thanks for the info, still debating what year to get…

[@brianegeberg8497]

My 2005 has been my favorite vehicle ever, just turned 117k over the last 15 years...will likely outlast me...

[@yrojztluhcs1485]

I just bought 05 with 105k on it I love it

[@jjtt7408]

THANKS FOR THE NO B/S INFO / RIGHT TO THE POINT WITH FACTS AND YOUR HONEST OPINION / VERY GOOD VIDEO FOR PEOPLE WHO WANT TO KNOW THE TRUE DEAL / THANKS AGAIN / KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK / TRUTH IS WHERE IT'S AT

[@B.C.EpicExplorer]

Mines the 2007.5 loved it for 200k so far 2 head gaskets and a bunch of mods. First 6.7 2018 junk needs def.

[@youngproductions1401]

love my 2002 24 valve with of course the 6 speed nv5600. do a lift pump on them 24 valve 2nd gens and ur golden man

[@massonmalone5473]

I have an '07 5.9 g56 and it's the best truck I've owned. New trucks are fancier but if you want a truck it'd be hard to beat mine!

[@skwerlee]

My early 04 Dodge 5.9 HO/6sp would average 26+MPG unloaded on the highway…amazing.

[@WestCoastRoller]

Had a 98' gas truck but prefer the 97-94 interior, dash, and seats. 97' 3500 rwd 12 valve auto gets my vote because that's what I drive.

[@sheepdawg6946]

2012 is desirable in my opinion because it was the last year to not have DEF.

[@al-mubdizahir8704]

Loved it

[@laymansworld9858]

I just sold my 01 HO Cummins manual to my son in law. Best pickup I ever owned. I wish I had known they were getting rid of the manual in 2018, I might have replaced it at that time.

[@javierramirez9747]

Loved your best model years for Dodge Ram Cummins video. I just bought a 2004.0 ram 2500 with an October 03 build date. This is my first diesel truck. Used all your advice on what to look at before buying. One owner, no rust, no blow by, quad cab, grandpa truck with 250k miles for 5k! My question is the 305/555 HO engine did it have a catalytic converter from factory (Texas Truck). The videos are awesome thanks!

[@OutpostCTD]

Wow I think you found a great truck at a great price. The 04.0 did not come with the cat. If you do see an 04 with a cat it likely has the 325 hp engine and is an 04.5. Or possibly it could be an early 04 that is the california compliant truck with 235 hp.

[@javierramirez9747]

Thanks for getting back to me and for all the great content

[@tutubee507]

I love my 04.5 3500 RAM Dually with 6 speed manual‼️

[@DirectCurrent4u]

I have to say I truly love my 2005. If You take the time to upgrade the front end with the T style and Most important Upgrade, the Transmission to a 3 or 4 stage build. Lift pump, Exhaust Cold Intake, Injectors, Head Studs, Turbo Tuning are also great Upgrades to consider. I have to agree with You. Over all the 3rd Gens are really hard to beat! Great content! Thanks for sharing...👍

[@pamelaciccanti6154]

An 05 2500 diesel with the 6 1/4 bed is my dream truck. Mostly because that is the year I was born so it would kinda be special building it to me. But I also only want it if it’s a manual, or an extremely low priced automatic with low miles. Is there anything I should know about purchasing one?

[@DirectCurrent4u]

@@pamelaciccanti6154 Try to find one that is stock and has not been upgraded or modified too much. With low milage if passible.And has not pulled a fifth wheel trailer. That way you know it won't have the potential to last you forever.That's what I did when I bought mine. Wish you the best of luck.

[@imissyoumom7644]

Why a lift pump?

[@DirectCurrent4u]

@@imissyoumom7644 If you are planning on increasing your horse power it’s a good idea to upgrade your fuel system as well like a lift pump. You don’t want to starve your truck from getting adequate fuel.etc…

[@imissyoumom7644]

@@DirectCurrent4u I mean I’m keeping it stock except for necessities like front end steering/suspension things.

[@KeystoneOutdoorsman]

Most people overlook the 305/555 engine and its perks. I had an 03 and 04.5 with manuals. Great trucks. My 04.5 was my baby until I sold it but thats because i had alot of upgrades done to it, there's videos on my profile. But now I just have a 1990.0 non intercooled 3- speed auto. Great video!

[@pamelaciccanti6154]

Damnnnn I would’ve loved your 04.5 I’ve been looking for a 05 manual for so long lmao

[@johnhalter8317]

04.5, 05, 06. My 91 was great also.

[@AutoAuctionRebuilds]

2007 you could also get the new 6.7 without DEF / DPF in a mega cab.

[@scottdowney4318]

Like very much the 2005 5.9 dually 4x4 8foot bed I have. 2005 is the higher output engine and has no significant emissions control. NO DEF, DPF, EGR. I get 17mpg on the highway. And the ride is not harsh, some people still won't like it. I added 2 improved fuel filters and left the OEM fuel filter in the middle. Also added an external trans filter, an improved doubled up trans cooler in front and took the water cooled trans cooler out of the circuit. Anything with a CP4 is bad idea

[@stonybuckner9928]

Good info man any issues you know of with the '17 2500 C auto/4wd thanks God bless

[@adambatchelder4121]

I largely agree. For me its 97 as thats the current diesel smog cut off in California

[@rubenmar9596]

Looking to buy my first Cummins 👀💪🏾

[@brocklee1996]

I'm holding on to my 2018 Ram 3500 4x4 G56.

[@TheProchargedmopar]

👍💪 Love my deleted 08.

[@4rember]

Same here 08 cummins deleted

[@spencersgarage]

Love my HO 2003!

[@LoneWolf-cf5tp]

I’ve owned 5 ctds. 94,96,04.5, and currently own an 06 and 2014. Unfortunately I have to say the 2014 is superior to any the other 4. Deleted of course that is. I love my 06 though. 👍🏻

[@user-gh3dg5mq2k]

I have early 04 Cummins it’s great

[@Harry11315]

05 front end swap that 06-08, third gen pre facelift was peak.

[@quentonmillstid850]

The ugly bubble lights no way

[@nicolasramirez6567]

2006 g56 I really like this truck far better than my 2003 5.9

[@dirtdiggler9293]

My 91 d350 No overdrive 3 speed automatic ❤😊

[@jacoe33333]

I am looking at a 2012. Would you recommend a 2012 or should I go newer?

[@victorforte1605]

What ya think about the 2005? Looking at one in a couple of days 250k miles

[@theoutdoorman4438]

Do a video on the 09 being under rated. I have the same truck but short bed

[@OutpostCTD]

I will add this to my future videos list

[@MsMrhawk]

Still have my 04.5 HO manual transmission, very low miles...I won't get rid of it!

[@ernestotrucker8652]

I bought a 2004.0 Dodge Ram 3500 Quad Cab Laramie long bed 3 years ago with only 15,000 miles. The owner kept it in the garage all the time for more than 15 years and hardly used it. I bought it for $27,500. It currently has 27,000 miles on it. Do you think it was a good buy? How many miles do you think this truck could last? with a proper maintenance and fuel filtration recomendations applied.

[@kennethbarras4628]

I am looking at the Cummings, dually for 3500 series. I am looking for power and towing capacity. What do you suggest? Oldest possible, simple less complicated.

[@deadliftD]

What do you think about the following deal? 06 Ram 2500 SLT Quad Cab 4x4, 5.9 Cummins short bed with 140k miles. Tuned. 99% rust free. Transmission currently being completely rebuilt by local shop with HD upgrades and 5 year tranny warranty. Around $19,000 from a private party. I also know the vehicle's history from my mechanic. Your advice would be much appreciated.

[@mattio79]

After about 3 years of research and searching, I bought a 2003 Ram 2500 2WD 5spd ST (Standard output) and use 28.5 gallons of fuel over 8 weeks for my dailies and hit 27mpg hwy. I got it with 262k miles for $8500 in Oct 2022. My plans include a NV5600-spec input shaft and clutch, new FASS lift pump and finer injectors and up the power to about 450hp.

[@bernardoturrubiartes1541]

Good buy! How’s the truck holding up?

[@mattio79]

@@bernardoturrubiartes1541 It's running perfectly, just needs ball joints, shocks and some seals. I also want, not need, to refresh the interior and get the rear window and slider replaced.

[@bernardoturrubiartes1541]

@@mattio79 that’s great to hear! I’m looking at a similar year dually with the 6 speed. If I get it, hopefully it turns out to be a good vehicle like yours. Any idea what it costs to replace the entire front end suspension components?

[@mattio79]

@@bernardoturrubiartes1541 Done by a shop? around $1300-1600. Not sure how much the parts are for DIY, but I'm sure it's significantly less. Dodge used 1500-sized components in the 2500 and 3500 4WD trucks, and IMHO, that was a major mistake, because the 6BT/ISB 5.9/6.7 range of engines weigh in between 1160 and 1189lb. The 5.9 gas engine weighs about 550lb less

[@bernardoturrubiartes1541]

@@mattio79 okay, so it doesn’t sound too bad. DIY is probably less than half that price. Wow! I didn’t know they used the same components as the 1500! No wonder there’s a ton of issues with the front end. Thanks for the info man I appreciate it.

[@MLGtroll365]

I got the 98 24v the 07 5.9megab and 2014 6.7 cummins the best

[@francisstorry6753]

Enjoyed your video, very informative I have 98.5 awesome? You have a follower here.

[@IvanMorales-nm7hn]

What do you guys think of a 170k miles 2012 6.7 laramie ram

[@glitchthreesixty665]

I've had my 03 2500 Laramie since new. It has the 5.9HO with the NV5600. Only 120k in 20yrs. I'll probably never have to even buy another truck

[@Foxtrot_Vet]

A 2020 as well due to them going back to the cp3 pump

[@albertofuentes6762]

2015 you recommend yes or not

[@Genx4]

Early 1998 extended cab, shortbed, 12 valve, four wheel drive, 5 speed. The infamous unicorn

[@roylafleur1584]

Why don't you do a video on why the 09 is underrated. I have an 09 would be very interested. I am a new subscriber, thank!

[@OutpostCTD]

Thanks for the reminder. This will make a good video

[@patriotgaming2429]

Had a 2001 dodge 600k plug miles completely stock and would drive that bitch to the moon and back with no issues. Have a 2003 rn and it’s just as good 🙌🏼🙌🏼

[@josegutierrez9113]

Soo ? 5.9L (360) HO I6 CUMMINS TURBO DIESEL ENGINE. Is good ??

[@MrDippy-nm7xp]

I got a 03 cummins 6 speed with 351,000 miles and runs like it’s new pull trailers every weekend with it

[@bernardoturrubiartes1541]

That’s awesome! How’s the truck holding up!?

[@michaelportwood2450]

very best years. 1997, early 98. With p pump. super loud.Late 98 thrue 202 whent with crapy injection pump and Mexican block cracking. Dowel pin problum. O3 early o4 the best.in my opinion. No smog not even cat. Very good injection pump except easy to fix electrical piece on n itsmart to throw one in the glove box.easy side fuel pump. Smart to a new one on about the same time ya do the water pump.and you will be fine. 2 part injection wich make Realy quiet. If you use a 4 particular calculate fuel filter injectors were lost of super long time.. If you use a special bypass water bypass system helps keep the back two cylinders cool very easy fix. After late 04 thay started doing a lot of smog egr then thay whent nuts and realy problem. I had the 1997. Miss it except realy load.i have 03. I searched all over the united states for this truck very hard to get one ton speed manjake brake literate leather into he did see it's nice truck. Not a lot of power it was the three twenty five horsepower. And I bought a new 18 Dodge ram which was extreme powerhouse had eat death problems and got rid of it and wouldn't bought my oath 3 Dodge ram. Very happy with it. Needs a few fixes to make dependable. Is very quiet running dependable.

[@fredsiegfried1707]

03 to 07

[@sunnysmarket]

I have a 2006 3500. 5.9 . It's the worst truck every I buy. Always ford are the best. I wish I can sale it as soon as possible. But thanks for the video

[@Hoosierangler926]

I have a 6.7 2014 Cummins and the 68rfe transmission is a hand grenade with a broken pin.

[@josephpuchel6497]

Hey Had a 2006 Dodge Cummins sold it 5 years ago regret it but now looking at a 2005 Dodge Cummins low mileage. What you think excellent video

[@OutpostCTD]

Low mileage 3rd gens are great. I’m hoping to find a low mile 04.0 as my next truck if I decided not to go for a 4th gen

[@CarGuy87]

Thanks for the info.

[@SODMG.]

😂 wut

[@jimschaffroth5652]

My 1995, 2500 4x4, would get 26 mpg on highway.

[@keithmorrison6176]

you got it dead on buddy.

[@billyze1103]

Hi I have a 03 2500 planning to do Rv pulling a 9300lb 5th wheel. My question is how reliable are the transmissions? Thanks

[@OutpostCTD]

Automatics are fairly reliable on stock trucks. I have an 03 which is an auto and still has original trans at 410k but I consider myself lucky with that. When adding power via tuning or fuel upgrades a stock trans may not hold up for very long though. The manuals are very reliable, particularly the 6 speed one.

[@EkzdeeLFT]

not even a mention of 04.5/early 05. The last non TIPM trucks. Known for going bad but easy to fix.

[@al-mubdizahir8704]

So 04 is the best. Next best one is 2007 correct???

[@email8378]

Got an 06. Just started having issues. Purrs and idles great. As soon as you get up around 60-65 it starts cutting out and knocking intermittently. What's up. Mech told me it acts like gas in fuel. Drained all fuel and filter including aux tank. Fresh fuel. Still does it. After market intake, fass system. Injectors check out ok. I'm scratching my head. Mech says only other thing he can figure is possibly getting ready to drop a valve. Suggestions, ideas??

[@fitdadjourney]

I’m not sure who your mechanic is. But if you had a valve issue. It would be a problem all the time not just at a certain speed. One thing you can check is wire chaffing of the A/C sensor harness. If it runs through and occasionally shorts out, it affects the CPS and will make the truck spit and sputter almost like water in the fuel.

[@texasproud975]

I have a 2004 1/2, any issues if I remove the cat on it? New diesel owner here so just asking, thanks.

[@OutpostCTD]

You will be ok. The truck won’t know the difference.

[@davekana8388]

Okay question here, I have a 2000, 2500 with 253K. I have the opportunity to go to an 06 Big Horn Mega Cab with 135K stock truck, what’s your opinion? Thanks, Dave.

[@OutpostCTD]

This sounds like a good opportunity. Low miles stock 5.9 mega cab is very sought after. With that said I have an appreciation for the older trucks too. It’s a tough call but either way I don’t think you’d be making a bad choice.

[@davekana8388]

@@OutpostCTD it seems like every time I take out the 00, I have some kind of issue with it. I love the truck but my wife is getting fed up with it!🤷‍♂️ Thanks

[@tylerstevens4904]

hey, I'm in the search of a 2009 just like yours! is it a g56?

[@OutpostCTD]

Yes sir!

[@SvoBrianRobles]

2007.0?

[@shelbak65]

What year was last year before the D E F tank ?

[@OutpostCTD]

2012 was the last pre def year

[@mudslutmusic9052]

Best work truck…6.7 Chassis Cab

[@janamaro5894]

98 12v Cummins is the way reliable. Except the 98.5-02 24v Cummins are reliable too.

[@krishermanowski3599]

How do you know if your truck is a 2004.0 or 2004.5

[@OutpostCTD]

There should be a tag on the valve cover that says 305 for 04.0 or 325 for 04.5. You can also look at the vin. I believe if the 8th character is a C then it is a 04.0. If it is a 6 then it is a 04.5.

[@jjthesavage]

91.5 is when they got intercoolers.

[@trappervirginia1368]

Early 04 HO all the way

[@alexnav85]

Why is 09 underrated?

[@LAVODKA12]

IN MY OPINION I think 1994-1998 was the best

[@TylerEarling]

Hopefully I buy a Cummins this year 🙏🙏

[@Lepermessiah2386]

Best ram/dodge is 2040 when go out of business.

[@cappyjpadgett]

Says the guy that likely drives a prius

[@bartfart2123]

the only problems i have with my 03 2500 are the odometer gremlin and the blend door problem. but with over 600,000 miles on it that ain't much to bitch about. plus everything is capable for the DIYer

[@blaineangstadt2163]

Great video man, what I needed. I’m buying real soon, I was wondering - you want to exchange instagrams? Or Facebook or something similar? We can exchange numbers and I’d like to call & go over some questions that I want answered before pulling the trigger. You look like my guy dude!