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Dodge Dilemma - READ ONLY

6 messages,  Last post on Sep 05, 2003 at 5:57 PM

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What is this discussion about? Dodge Ram Pickup 1500, Engine, Sedan

Messages Page 2 of 2

#4 of 6 Dodge Dilemma by iowabigguy

Sep 02, 2003 (8:44 am)

Personally I would look at NEW Dodge Rams. I don't know what the new rebates will be since they end today but you can get into a base model Ram 1500 regular cab ST for about $15,000. This to me would be the better choice. You would have a new truck, financing should be similar to what you had on used with GOOD credit. The base model comes with a V6 and a 5 speed manual. Add a 4.7V8 and an automatic for about $1,600 more.
Dodge has had problems with automatic transmissions in the past but a large portion of the problem was lack of maintenance or use of the wrong type of transmission fluid. I have had 7 Dodge vehicles over the years and NEVER had a transmission problem! I do routine maintenance according to the owners manual for severe service.

#5 of 6 Desertrose.................. by dustyk

Sep 05, 2003 (11:47 am)

I could give you anecdotal evidence of transmission failures for any make and model. If you are really interested, visit a few transmission repair establishments and see what is on their lot needing repair. It may surprise you. My company operates a fleet of pick-ups and in our experience the GM drivetrain platforms have always exceeded Ford and Dodge in auto transmission failures.
 
(When someone dislikes a particular brand any example of a problem serves as reinforcement of their biased beliefs. Since the majority of people in my family own GM and Ford products, I can tell you that transmission failures are most certainly not unique to Dodge.)
 
My experience is that automatic transmission problems are most often linked to the type of service, use, and/or maintenance specific to that vehicle. It is true that from about 1989 to 1997 Dodge truck transmission failure rates were higher than industry average. This was due to two major areas: a component quality issue with shift solenoid packs, and marginal fluid flow to the overdrive unit in the transmission.
 
The basic "RE" series of Dodge trannsmissions are based on the A904 (smaller version) and the A727 (larger version) of the 1960s, both extremely rugged and reliable designs. When Dodge modified this series to incorporate overdrive in the late "80s, they did experience higher failures when used for towing and snowplowing, and exacerbated by conditions of low temperature operation. As noted above by another contributor, a fairly large portion of the failures in Dodge truck (RE) series was the result of incorrect automatic transmission fluid being used. Mercon should not be used in Dodge truck transmissions.
 
In 1998 the "RE" series received a number of fairly significant upgrades to the design which resolved any reliability issues. The "RE" series now has a lower repair rate that their competition.
 
The 545RFE transmission which was introduced in '00 (2001 in Dodge RAMs)is totally new and has proven to be a solid and extremely reliable design. There are very few reported problems with this transmission, and even fewer failures.
 
Best regards,
Dusty

#6 of 6 Dodge dilemma solved by desertrose1

Sep 05, 2003 (5:57 pm)

Thanks for all the input and insight. I made the decision to go with the 99. I got it for a good price (asking: 13990.00, paid: 12500.00) I will also be getting a 3 year bumper to bumper warranty from my bank at a very reasonable price. Picking it up Saturday, can't wait! Test drove it before buying, road really good. Personal mechanic gave it the thumbs up. It was traded by the original owner(an older couple) for a 4X4. Looks like God smiled on me in this deal.
Thanks again for your replies,
Happy truckin,
Mike M.

Messages Page 2 of 2

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