@@Alpha_fitz it took a while He placed his order last year and got it about 3 months ago. Got it from Montana But it was a custom order so it took a little longer then normal truck
As plastic as the interiors are in the third gens, I must say, they are incredibly easy to work on.. A few of my hvac control lights went out, and I had it completely disassembled and reassembled in 10 minutes.. Everything just pops together.. The new tech is great and I love the look of the 5th gens.. But the simplicity of the 3rd gens is awesome
@@jasonbrown5014 Once upon a time, I did a boosted launch in 4wd and broke my second gear band... whoops😂 Thankfully a friend of mine is familiar with these trannys and walked me through fixing it.. And I must say, it was very easy.. 48re's really aren't nearly as bad as people make them sound. They can be built incredibly strong.. Would be nice having more gears though!
@@need4speed1967 Interesting. I keep reading that I should stay away from this generation of Ram, due to transmission issues. They are so cheap compared to a lot of other trucks though
I have a 2008 2500 Cummins Mega that i absolutely love. I hit a Texas sized pot hole over 100k miles ago and somehow lost weight and gained mileage and power. It is an automatic that got replaced with a better one almost 100k miles ago and still running strong. I had the seats recovered and driver seat rebuilt and all covered in Katskin custom leather that totally changed the look and feel of the truck. Non of the sound system is factory since I finally replaced the headunit with a touchscreen. Plan to keep it as long as possible.
You deserve everything you have gotten in terms of diesels. You are a true ‘down to earth’ diesel enthusiast. Im not *yet* a diesel owner but im doing my research before I buy.
Thanks for all your videos, you do a good job explaining things. As an 07 5.9 mega cab owner, you know my vote. I love my truck with Thuren 3", upgraded steering, built trans, and all the goodies. With the price of new trucks, even being able to afford one, I'll probably never own a new truck again. Keep up the good work!
Older all day long. Now to preface, I went from 69 beetle to a 92 4 runner to 08 scion to an 18 ram 3500. Ram was the first new tech vehicle I ever bought. First off the showroom vehicle I ever owned. I loved how insulated it was from road noise and how smooth it was. All the tech and things it came with stock. It was an amazing truck and I hate that I sold it. That being said I’m fixing to buy my buddies 05 ram 2500. And all day I would take the 05 over my 18 or even a 22. I love the mechanical feel of everything. I adore the g56. And probably more than anything the exhaust note. And it has more than enough power. I love all the new bells and whistles on new vehicles. Like a whole lot. But I’m a classics kind of guy. And like you said, there will only be fewer and fewer of them in existence as time goes on so, enjoy the fun older stuff if you can and while you can. In my mind if I’m going to spend 70+ thousand on a truck, I’d rather spend that money making something older exactly how I want it. Great video. Hit the nail on the head.
I have a 5.9 4x4 G56 Megacab. I like the older vehicles and worn out parts is an excuse to put the parts I want onto the truck (suspension, hydro ram steering, even aluminum blend doors for the HVAC when they failed). I prefer the old plastic over the new soft touch interiors as soft touch doesn't seem to last all that long especially with a little abuse. You can get the old trucks pretty close to the new trucks in terms of comfort. I took the time to Dynamat my truck cab and installed a 4 link rear suspension. The only thing that isn't available is tuned shocks for my air ride setup but that can likely be done with custom shock tuning given enough money. Too bad CA doesn't like you change anything close to emissions related; luckily that is not a limitation for me anymore. An upgraded turbo (likely VGT) is in my future.
I love my g56. I'm also about to put in aluminum blend doors lol. Can't wait to put in a new clutch next year and then she will be all good. Can't decide between the volair or south bend.
@@erictheoffle3239 yeah here in bc deletes are completely legal however ford and other brands have started making it physically impossible to delete their new diesels
What I LOVE about my 3rd gen is the feel hands down! You feel connected to the truck. You actually have to feel it to drive it smooth. Manual or not you feel the older trucks and that does SO much more for me than luxury and more stock power ever could
Bought my 06 new 17 years ago. Drive it every day. No emissions crap. New water pump at 100k, new AC compressor 125k, rebuilt 48re transmission at 135k!! $5000!! New original front seat covers. New paint with UV proof clearcoat. Had all body dings fixed. UV clearcoat on headlight lenses. New rear bumper (always bumping into things when backing into parking spaces). Long bed fully coated inside. Rides like a truck, sounds like a diesel truck. Regularly visit relatives 400 miles door to door with a little over half a tank of diesel left when I arrive. Last of the pre emissions pickups. 137,000 miles. Hope to keep it for the rest of my life.
When I was shopping for my truck I had pretty much decided I wanted an '03 to '06 5.9, but wanted to see what I was really missing by not going newer. I test drove a '14 from a local dealer and it went into limp mode less than 2 miles from the dealer. I do have to admit it was a very comfortable place to be broken down.
Can't beat the sound of the older Cummings & the ease of working on them but the comfort of the new trucks are hard to beat as well. So either way I think it's a win win situation.
Great comparison! I bought a new Dodge 2500 Cummins in 2004 and just in the last couple of years had the trans and converter rebuilt and upgraded, new Bosch injecters , CP3, total front suspension rebuild etc. This year plans - paint, sound deadening, entertainment/ camera unit, new door glass and seals, etc.
I picked up a clean 2001 3/4 QC long bed a couple months ago with only 121,000 miles for approx $20k. Planning on putting about $15k in it on suspension upgrades and new paint/bedliner and drive it for years.
Goodness, well I guess they’re worth that nowadays. Great trucks my 01 1 ton can keep up with the Jeeps in the sand dunes, mainly cos it’s on an 8in lift with 37s. Not Bad for a diesel 4x4 5 speed
Loved the video comparing New to pre-emmision trucks. I have a 2014 tradesman 2500 with the max tow package. Repairs to the DEF/DPF system are ridiculously expensive. Would like to see a video on the pros and cons of a full delete.
He won't being in CA. Pro more power no bs. Con federal crime don't go to NY or CA. I personally never cared about the crime since the presidents limo is deleted so screw em.
Then only con I can think of is the need for repair say something happens that alone can't fix and need to take to a shop unless that shop is able to take a chance I would not go for an full delete I honestly would keep.the egr on but just shut it down and keep it shut on top of that you must check your states local laws on that if they don't do emissions test do go for it
Got my ‘12 3500 6 years ago come April. Best truck I’ve ever had. Granted a few years ago it lost some weight after hitting a pothole, but I’ve never had any real issues with it in that aspect. And as the miles keep adding up, it only runs better and better
I love my 06 2500 cummins 4x4! I would not buy the 2019, you are exactly right in the fact that older trucks have character, but always need attention to the details. and by not spending $60-90k on a truck I have a lot left over for fuel and parts! Great video content thank you!
I went from ‘04.5 2500 to ‘15 3500 and now I just bought a ‘22 1500 hemi. I miss the 5.9 every single day, the 6.7 never replaced the fun I had driving the old 5.9. The 3rd gen was by far the most fun vehicle I’ve ever had. Great video, thanks.
Thanks for the info. I’m new to owning a diesel and or a truck really. I’ve owned a 1970 C-10 Chevy Suburban 3 door and a 1998 Ford Explorer XLT before purchasing a 2016 Ram Laramie Diesel Dually a few months back. I must admit I’m having fun learning from people like yourself what makes these trucks special. I look forward to hearing more about the ins and outs of these vehicles so that I may learn a bit more about them. Thanks again!
I daily an 07 5.9 4x4 G56. The 3rd gen hood slopes downward giving optimum frontal visibility. Starting with 4th gen, the hood leading edges got taller causing huge blind spot in front.
Lol, my 1997 f350 CCLB with a 10 inch lift on 40s and tinted windows is nothing but 1 giant blind spot 🤣. I can't see anything in front or behind me. I really need to get an "always on" backup camera to replace/coincide with my rearview mirror, as I can't tell you how many times I've been at a stoplight or something, and a little Honda Civic or something small is parked right behind me and I cannot see it. I also have no idea where the front of my truck/bumper is, so it's only a matter of time until I hit something
If you check under the hood, that bulge is because of the EGR plumbing. A nice scalding hot pipe located right where your arms want to sit while working on it!
Completely agree, 3rd gen is the best model design they had so far. I have an 06' Cummins 3500 g56 4x4 and 99 Cummins 2500 4x4 47re (both work trucks) electrical is total garbage though...99' 4x4 vacuum system is trash too...
Great job Adam. Well said. I personally love my 06 for all the reasons you mentioned. The sound, manual trans and they’re easy to work on. My wife isn’t a fan of all the things I mentioned and for that I’d get her a newer Ram if I could swing it. Thanks again Adam. Love the content your putting out.
I have an 05 diesel, six speed manual, crew cab, longbed, same dark grey paint as yours, just rolled over 125k miles. I bought it new and plan to keep it until the wheels fall off and then put them back on.
I love the character of the older trucks, but once you get used to how the new trucks drive and their interiors it's really hard to go back. Great video, thanks!
for me it was easy. i actually sat and drove a 2020 Ram and instantly said. NOPE im staying with my old 2nd gen. These new cars, yes all new cars for me not just trucks, feel way to cramped inside and all that elctronic wish wash, i dont need that. and they are not that much more comfortable for me. you just have to know how to care for the stuff you have and replace reppair intime. which is another point. i can disassemble my 2nd gen outside my door. cant do that with a new one.
What your doing with it has EVERYTHING 2 do with your opinion. Im either constantly dragging a toyhauler, gooseneck, or tagalong trailer. The newer the truck the better hands down!
Excellent review Andrew. Straight to the point. I have 2 2gens and a 2020. I drive my 2gen more bcos it's my service truck and I also take it on an occasional road trip. I don't drive the 5gen as much, but when I wanna take my boat to the lake I will use it. There times when its nice to get into a comfortable truck and have car play and not worry about it. However, when things go bad in the new trucks (got contaminated fuel), things get complicated and expensive fast. I had to have all 6 injectors replaced at 8k miles. My 24v 2 gen has had water in fuel multiple times, and all I did was run the lift pump and some good fuel and it was fixed. If I didn't have both trucks, already paid for, I would keep my 2 gen and get a deleted manual 4 gen, no def
I went from a SLT 99 Cummins to a 17 SLT. Figured I didn’t need all the extra comforts in the cab till I go on a long 2000mile + road trip pulling my camp trailer with my family. Now I wished I’d spent the money on the little extras in the cab. I love my 17 but sometimes I also miss the old dawg. Great video!
A few weeks ago I went to start up our old 2003 pre emissions with no glow plugs or wait to start, and it hadn't been plugged in. It fired RIGHT up... So fast I called my dad and asked if he had been driving it and he said no That's just how the old ones are and that's why they liked them so much... I'll never go back
Best option, deleted 6.7. Better interior, sometimes better look, depends on your preference. But a more refined engine and trans if you get good tunes. Depending on where you live tho, you could get trouble coming your way
Unless you live in CT where you can’t pass emissions every couple years without the stock emissions system and if you can’t pass emissions you can’t re-register the truck every few years 😢
@@gregellaljr3072 it’s illegal everywhere. You just only get tested for emissions in certain places that’s why I said depending on where you live. I’d still do it anyway but just have a stock ECU and exhaust ready to put on when I gotta get tested
Awesome video! Very detailed, best part “if you based your manhood on not being comfortable in your truck, that’s ok” lmao - I prefer to be as comfortable as I can be, these trucks are meant for long rides on the road, I don’t like getting to a destination sore and beaten up by the rough ride.
Great vid. Every time I watch one of your videos, I am taken aback by how clean your truck is. That’s not a typical example of what you find on the used market, but it is a beauty for sure… I paid 45k for a new 2019 2500 4x4 (pre pandemic); tradesman quad with the 6.5 bed. I think the tradesman is the best value, all the benefits of a new truck and the interior is still better than the old trucks. It had the 8" screen and that's enough tbh. I spent about $1k upgrading headlights and door panels. Overall, I am happy with what I spent for what I get out of it. Tradesman was the way to go for me. Had I found examples like your truck on the used market when I was shopping. Damn, that would have been a hard decision...
I retired 2 years ago. Wife and I bought a new 5th wheel and had to make decision to get a new one or. So I made the decision to Put about 12k in my 05 manual dually. My son gets great discounts through his job on the parts and I did all work my self. So 12k bought me quite a lot. Really love my old truck and really like working it myself. So I now know I will never own a new one but like my wife I love the old one "the wife". Keep up the good work brother.
I have a brand new Superduty but your videos make me wish I had a 3rd gen to have fun with! If it was just me I would have a 3rd gen for sure but, being that I have a family and do long road trips the new trucks are where it’s at for me. Great videos as always!
i have a 2020 ram 2500 with carli pintop leveling kit and 37'" and method 704 and i love it. i wouldn’t trade it. my motor all stock and the putting def in really isnt a big deal to me. and for me the truck has more than enough power for what i do with it. there is nothing wrong with the older rams, but i like the new tech and heated and ac seats.
Just wait until you have 150k+ miles on it and you’ve dumped thousands of dollars into emissions related failures and sensors that put you in limp mode, when you’d be just breaking in an older pre-emissions truck.
@@psychology2217 I don't know. I think it's by case. Just bought 22 Cummins. I typically keep my trucks 150k to 175k miles. By that point, even a gasser isn't wore out for motor and transmission. Traded my 14 1500 in on it, 153k miles bought new. I replaced a wheel bearing, some of the latches like the tailgate was showing its age. I traded it because the wear parts were at the end of their life. I would have had to replace all of the wearable parts on the truck to keep it. The heavy trucks are the same. Had an F350 single wheel, 6 speed 6.0. Ran fine, bit it needed knuckle work, shocks, I had replaced the Ujoints couple times....etc. it had 175k, sold it private party. Like I said, not saying you are wrong, but it depends on the use case. Love my 22, and at the same time, it will be paid off a couple years before I'm tired of small stuff needing replaced, I will go find a new one.
Completely agree I live in NorCal in the country east of Stockton in the lower foothills. I have a 3rd Gen 04 and I will never get rid of it. In fact I try to get any extra parts I can for it. There are literally anywhere from 300-500 1st, 2nd and 3rd gens that drive by my house every day hauling livestock and equipment. I’m on the hunt for a late second Gen myself as I think these were the best truck in my lifetime. Yes like you said one day we will all have to give up our pre emissions trucks for the late great high efficient low emissions trucks and I will wait for a comfy truck until then. The price tag is not worth it for me. I’d rather be able to make my own fuel out of vegetable oils and be self sufficient if diesel were to become unavailable. You can’t run a newer truck off French fry oil but an old 24v 5.9 will take what ever you throw at it.
I have an 01 2nd gen and I love it! You are absolutely correct on the sound of an older Cummins. Turbo back straight 4” exhaust. Nothing sounds like it. I would love a new truck but I can’t justify $80k + for a new one. I don’t tow 20k + trailers and don’t have a contracting job to write it off on taxes. Maybe one day I can get one. Also the wife said that I would have to get rid of my old truck to get a new one.😞 Said I don’t need two trucks. She just doesn’t understand.
After owning both these trucks, this comparison is absolutely 💯 spot on. Up north we gut the emissions right away, making the 4th gen just as reliable and fuel efficient!!
Sup hero. I got a 06 3500 g56 dually i bought brand new 122,000 miles still absolutely love it. But those 5th gens are nice no doubt but I want spend that kind of money for the difference love your channel God speed brother 👍👍
Just bought a 06 3500 Laramie 4x4 manual crewcab long bed completely stock with 200k miles for 16k. Injectors weren't replaced so has blowby. So new engine with head studs and Big iron oil pan, bigger turbo, bigger Injectors, bigger exhaust manifold, dual disk clutch, coolant bypass, fass fuel pump and filtration, gauges, tuner and labor to have all work done. Im all in for 40k and im sitting at 450 hp when needed 😊
I have a bone stock 2006 quad cab 2500 4x4. 74k original miles. No mods and runs perfect. I love the truck but think the comfort and reliability of the new rigs are great too. Great video and I couldn’t agree more with your assessment.
Daily drive an 03’. Love every second of it. 465k miles so it’s showing it’s age. Just had to do a TPS sensor. But 15 minutes later and she was back to running strong as ever. I’m biased though, it’s my dream truck lol. Working on getting some updated steering components and wanting to get a carli suspension setup in the future. Just miss daisying her until then. Love the content.
I didn't read all the comments, but the new rams have hydraulic lifters, plus like you said all the emission stuff. Keep your truck. I have an 03 3500 with a manual.. no issues ever.
Love these videos. Glad you are back to posting some new content! I have to say, I agree with everything you’re saying about these two trucks. I have a 2013 Ford 6.7 that I deleted and tuned and it’s been stellar…that being said, the way I had it done it still passes emissions with flying colors here in AZ. I considered buying a new 2022 Super Duty but the prices on these new trucks is outrageous!
3rd gen all day easy to make lots of power especially with no emissions equipment. 3rd gen is the most refined 5.9 platform. The 48 is a amazing trans built if you wanna hot rod around. It’s a hot rodding diesel enthusiast dream truck just like the 12v
Maybe it’s just perspective but I love the 4 speed with the Cummins. I love the 4th gear dump in my 04’. Dumped the cash into the 04’ instead of a new one because I love the way it drives so much
Nice video. I’ve been diesel all my life. Currently have (2) 2002 F250 powerstrokes (his and hers) with over 340,000 miles each. The bummer is they are both 2wd super cabs and the kiddos are outgrowing the back for our long road trips. Been looking at finding a 4x4 crew cab Ford ‘99-‘02….buuuuuut really been digging the ‘06-‘07 mega cab with the 5.9. I’m in a different Position than most as being a plumbing contractor has afforded me the lifestyle to afford any truck or even sportscar that you can find on any lot in the country. With that said, it just doesn’t make sense to me to spend $80k + on a truck in this current market. I’d rather spend $30-$35k on a used ‘06-‘07 and be good to go for another 15 years. My local diesel repair shop has a nice boneyard full of DEF compliant diesels with 170,000 miles that basically require waaaaaay to much money to fix.
I'm going to go with the vintage truck. Don't have to worry about something going wrong with the extra exhaust systems if the factory never put it on the truck to begin with (and on the really old trucks, the diesel exhaust doesn't smell as bad as the newer exhaust does with whatever is being mixed with it, I think it's ammonia, not too sure tho).
When looking for a Ram 7 years ago, I knew DEF was going to be a continual issue. Deletes are/were passé and illegal. So I focused on pre-DEF and got an 07 5.9 megacab. I glance at the newer trucks occasionally, but keep coming back to mine being paid off. Last week, noticed a guy analyzing the truck in the post office parking lot. Announcing myself, I said, "It's not for sale." He knew a lot about the upgrades I had made. Obvious he liked it. He also knew a lot of each generation Ram Cummins truck. 3 spots back was his. A 2017 Ram Cummins. He hated the DEF system. But, he knew old school. He also had a '95 1st Gen.
I have a 2007 2500 laramie with the 5.9 Cummins and I love it. I bought it brand new and it has 122,000 miles on it. Sadly I had to put a transmission in it this week. I went with the Jasper stock. I have pulled some heavy boats with it across mountains and it never bother it a bit. No plans on trading it or selling. I also have a 1989 4wd also I bought new with the 318. Still use it as my old work truck. Loved your video because I felt it was honest and true. Thanks
I have purchased a 1-ton 3rd gen dually 2006 and absolutely love it and currently here in San Diego this California truck is getting a rebuild from the engine to the suspension transmission my first diesel truck and glad it has already have a delete muffler a aftermarket intercooler 5in exhaust
I bought my 07' Mega Cab in 2020 with only 119 000 miles in great shape. It took me about a year to find one, but it was worth it. I love the hood on it, the huge cab, simplicity since I work on it and plan on owning it for the next 20+ years. One thing I will do though is an upgrade to Allison once the 48RE is done:)
For me it all revolves around what is affordable. I can not see spending 100K or more for a diesel rig. All the other things like comfort reliability and looks take a back seat to being affordable, I paid just under 18K out the door from my friendly local Chevrolet dealer 4 years ago. I have a 2004.5 Dodge Ram 2500 with the 325 HP engine. Dead stone reliable, completely stock and it can easily haul my 5th wheel.
@@Brandon68plus1 i dont understand who has the money for these trucks. i have a masters degree and i cringe at the thought of paying $35,000 for a vehicle, let alone $70,000 lmao. There must be a demand for it though because you can barely even find single cab, long bed work trucks on the lot these days. You can find plenty of $60k trucks though. It's just...who the hell is buying them?
I had the same decisions my friend. I sold my 2003 2by 2 2500 after 10 years. Loved it. The 2by2 was super fast with a 63 MM turbo and a Smarty. Then purchased a MEGA CAB 4 by 4 Yeehaa. Oh Crap 1500 pounds heavier then the 2 WD model , time for injectors and a Dragon CP3. The 5.9 engine is the winner in beast wars. I have twin snales/turbos and love it, the boost gauages come up to 50PSI very fast. My mechanic mentioned do not get a newer then 2007 truck. His words are the holy water for diesel performance. :) I love the simplicity of the 5.9. I do like how you mention that the 2018 or newer are much better the older gen truck. I was not aware of this. Great comparison video my fellow diesel brother. I have to post my video of my Cummins rims. Yes each hub on my wheel has the Cummins emblem. I love Cummins do not car about dodge...But the 5.9 is as good as the best pole dancer you will ever find :) :) I owe you a couple of cases of beer for your great video. If you comment back I will send you my Cummins rims. On a Side note I am interested in creating a TESLA look for my 2007. Something that matches the Ford Lightning. If I get there I will share defiantly share that video with you. Need to create the grill and light combo. Take care my friend.
I had 2 Cummins equipped Dodge trucks, a 1993 and a 1998. Both were 12 valve with manual transmissions. They were both really great trucks. Wish I still had one of them. My son bought a 2021 last year and I have to say it is a great truck. Comfortable, powerful and great looks. While I wish it were available with a manual, the 6-speed automatic shifts nicely and smoothly and feels very efficient. If I were in the market for a 3/4 ton truck I would have no problem buying one of these but it is simply more truck than I really need at this point. Thanks for the comparison.
I came from the 05 Duramax world and when Ram had a special on 2014's with free Cummins, I went and got a 2014 Laramie CCSB 2500. It's been a great truck other then it had a ton of recalls being it 2014 was the first year of the 4th gen 2500. There was a couple of emission system recalls and I've never had any emission issues. I love Ram's interiors compared to Ford and GM. My 68RFE had a couple of updates from Ram and it's never been a problem.
Moved from a compound turbo 97 12v manual that I had for 15 years. Got a 2021 HO 3500 SRW and fully deleted it plus some other fun parts. I effing love my 2021. Switching was one of the best decisions. As for reliability, my 12v was constantly breaking down. It was just old and tired. Was throwing so much money at it. My new truck is worry free. No nickel and diming
Love your content. Keep it up. I went with an 04 5.9. Looks just like yours just not as clean. Put a built tranny in it and a 100 hp smarty setting. Happy as can be. It does nickel and dime me. But I own it outright. Pulled 20k on a gooseneck flatbed from Portland to Montana last week. Got 12-14 mpg and towed like a dream. If I could afford (pay cash) for a newer one I would. But for now I’m good.
Great video, keep in mind though the newer 4th gens are crew cab not quad cab. A little bigger than quad cab. I just wish the quad cab was a little bigger in the backseat and they’d be perfect (like the current crew cab)
I have a '05 that had its tranny gone through so it's got the billet torque converter and it's exactly like you say, lots of power, it just doesn't seem to translate to the ground and it seems to need an extra gear and is too high of RPM at 60mph. I wish there was a way to put the truck in Hwy mode when it's flat so you can lower the cruising RPM. The owner I bought my truck from had a brand new 2022 in his driveway that looked identical to what you had in this video and he said the ride is incredible and the towing is really great. He flew from OR to TX to get the blacked out version he wanted and drove it back. I laughed because the truck I was buying from him is a Laramie sport that he blacked out himself with aftermarket parts. You have nicer wheels than I have, and a sunroof. Super jealous of that sunroof. I'm super glad I bought a pre-emissions truck. I almost went with a newer 6.7 just to get the mega cab but said fuck it. So glad of my choice.
Going from my 2nd gen to my late 4th gen and even dads 5th trucks is a huge night a day difference. I’ve taken the 2nd gen to Houston a few times about 5hr drive for me and I needed a chiropractor after. But, the new trucks have a numb feeling like your just holding the steering wheel. So there are trade offs. I’m just impressed with the quality of the new rams because for years they’ve been cheaper built mainly interior wise. To me the later 3rd gens have the worse seats out of them all and that’s saying a lot considering my 2nd gen seats weren’t great.
I have a 06 Big Horn 2500, quad cab, long bed, 48re that I bought new. Love the the truck. Went full Banks (CARB legal) from the air filter to the exhaust tip, including his intercooler and Economind tuner. Tuner level 6 gives 425 hp an 845 ft lb of torque, but the truck is always driven in level 2, which gives more power and better mileage than stock. You said that you updated your steering, but still get wandering. The best single mod I made to my truck was installing a steering box brace. The truck tracks like a car now and the wonder lust problem is solved. If you didn't include one of those in your upgrade, you should try it.
I agree with the reliability point. You may not have the catastrophic drivetrain malfunctions, or emissions problems, but if you like to properly maintain your truck, the little things are going to nickle and dime you. Interior stuff is hard to find, electrical problems may start to arise because of material breakdown, door seals may start to go out, door hinges etc. You're not saving in that area, just spending differently.
I have an 05 with 6 speed manual. It has 215,000 and is currently having new Bosch reman injectors, head rebuild, and a high flow two piece exhaust manifold. I rebuilt the front Axial, not the pig, and added manual front hubs. I'm in Michigan and the county like to dump salt all over even when they don't need it so rust is setting in. I'm examining replacing the cab and putting an aluminum flat bed on it. It is a farm truck but I'd still like to keep it nice. The other thing I am looking at is Smarty Jr tuner. At my job we bought a 2009 6.7 liter. The milage was terrible. 10 to 15 mpg. I didn't think this truck had much more than my 5.9 did. When the emissions system started acting up we had it deleted with a 40 HP single set tune. Its getting 17 to 18 just running around. I get 23 mgp empty on the highway and 19 to 20 hauling a three horse trailer with two horses hay and gear. Hit 26.9 empty in the Smokey Mountains.
I’d love to have both. Such different animals. However, I think the elephant in the room in this comparison is that you’re missing the single best modification to these 3rd gens - a properly built 48. It literally transforms the truck. There’s something to be said for the “experience” and “drama” of the older trucks - especially when built. I’d love to see you get a Firepunk/Randy’s transmission and reassess. Great video, man!
Very good video, as a dodge ram fanatic myself i agree with almost all of these points, but as a diesel master tech, i disagree with the reliability portion. Hand in hand the engine portions of the 5.9l and 6.7l are absolutely reliable as can be better then any other diesel thats ever been made in my 18 years of working on them, however the emmisions still to this day have an extreme amount of issues, nox sensors, def pumps, dosing valves, egr issues, vgt problems in the turbo all are extremely common failures on a daily that i see in my shop ( issues you obviously would not have in the 5.9l ), i would say in most instances i see customers with the 6.7ls around 100k have had to replace the turbo, vgt actuator, egr, def dosing valve, and def pump ( around 12k worth of parts) where a 5.9l is still just getting its 10th oil change. However, i have also seen many deleted 6.7ls come through that are just as reliable as any 5.9l ( due to the fact that there is no activated emissions now).
I've owned probably 20 diesel trucks over the years, my daily driver is an 06 Cummins 4x4 ,manual 6 speed, long bed, stock. I got on an airplane and flew 1000 miles to buy it when I found it. I installed leather lariat longhorn seats from a 4th Gen to improve comfort. Only complaint is the small back seat and hearing my children complain. Lol
Bought my 06 new in 06 for $48,000. 4.10s front and rear. Problems...water pump at 75k, AC at 100k, transmission rebuild at 135k(!!!). Darn 48RE! No emission controls. Has 900 freeway and interstate mile range on fillup. No dents or dings. Repainted and coated with UV proof clearcoat. Looks like brand new and beautiful and simple to my wife and I compared to new diesel trucks and it's ours. No payments.
I own a 2016 Long Horn Laramie with King Thuren suspension. I love it. I like and would have liked a 3rd gen but the rear seating for kids/dogs whatever, was just not great. As for this video and your question, which would you take..... either.. both are killer. I have had a new and old body Tacomas, I had a 2nd gen raptor, I had 7.3 Superduty but genuinely enjoy my RAM. Regardless of the emission stuff, the Ram is overall one of the easier trucks to work on IMO, which is a huge plus.
I’m a new Subscriber. Love the content being put out. I personally have a 3 gen (2008) mega cab w/Carli Suspension and use it for my plumbing business. Saving up for a 5th gen Ram for the reason you mentioned. Comfort
@Just Diesels Best upgrade I did to my 3rd gen (among a very long list) was a 4th gen seat swap (electric/lumbar) + Katzkin leather and heated seats. Fabbed up a conversion harness for the drivers side electric seat with the help of my multimeter. Got the seats out of a wrecked low mileage 2018. The seats are so much better than the 3rd gens and the whole cab just feels like a better made vehicle (not a parts bin feeling truck like you refer to). Close second was sound deadening the doors, roof, c-pillars and rear panel of the cab. Long drives while towing are 100% better.
We have a 2007 3500. We tow a 10,000 trailer, in which we live in full time on the road, and are full time musicians (not very rich). We're also retired and on SSS, so again not rich. Our truck has 200k plus miles, and has a bunch of problems, although the engine still runs strong and MANY things have been done to it, We have a fully built trans, aftermarket exhaust brake (currently inop), all possible front end mods, locking hubs, etc. However, as I said, lots of problems, the worst being overheating when pulling long hills towing our house. I replaced the radiator with a higher efficiency aluminum one, and replaced the thermostat, and of course, the water pump twice. The other major prob is that it wanders when pulling, which feels like it's trying to swap ends all the time.I can alleviate this somewhat by dropping down the rear airbags, but still.... Then, the CD player is fried, heated seats don't, has exhaust leak (gasket), exhaust brake is dead (reason unknown at this time), electric seat movement is now mostly dead, etc.... Just trying to decide which way to go. We're in our late 60's/early 70's and I no longer take pleasure in crawling under the truck or hanging under the hood, especially in the winter here in Washington (used to be in Calif, but people on the road are SO VERRRRY much nicer here!!!). Oh yeah, I forgot to mention.. It gets around 15 MPG towing, and has gotten 25MPG with our fiberglass cabover work type camper, as long as I don't put my foot in it and keep the speeds lower! I figure we have maybe 10-15 years left before we have to hang up the old steering wheel, and want something that will make it that far.. Don't know if I'm looking for advice or just spewing....
Glad your uploading again. Good video for me especially. As I'm shopping for a good 3rd gen but was looking into 4th gens. This video made me rethink getting a 4th gen
My daily driver is an 08 1500 5.7 Hemi TRX 4. 6" Cali lift on 295/70/r17 on zero offset rims and a true trac dif. It dose all I need it to do on and off road. And easy to fix and parts are cheap/ warrantied. Wouldn't give this one up even if they gave me a new 22 RAM trx4. My truck has been well taken care of 💓
there's a caveat you're missing here; don't make the truck TOO old otherwise you'll spend new truck money to get to there. Bought an OBS 7.3 with this mindset, and quickly realized antiquated technology is WORSE than emissions hassle. Ideally I should've bought a late model super duty 7.3 and did all my work to IT, or a third gen cummins or LBZ, but noooo I was ignorant and now I'm wasting money breaking my back on an old school vehicle. Wonderful video explaining the differences :)
here is what I hate on the new RAM Laramie - I rented one for a weekend to try it out - The hood. It's too high and takes up too much of my visual area out the front windsheild. It was hard enough on the third gen, but now it's terrible. This is not just against RAM but all the new trucks. Bring the hoods down so I can see better! I ended up finding a 2004 2500 w/o DEF and virtually no rust. I paid almost 20000 for it but now I think I could sell it for a lot more. I like the older trucks for several reasons and interior is one of them. They are well insulated and still very comfortable. I replaced the stock radio in the truck and now it has backup cam and carplay. it looks great inside/out and runs great.
My ‘19 plugged the DPF to the point in needed to be replaced at 500 miles. The CP4 was also waiting on parts for a recall to move it back to a CP3. They also run through a ton of DEF compared to my ‘14. I went back to a 4th gen with 5” TBE and EFI live. I miss the a few things, but I don’t miss the payment!
Original ‘03 with 300k. I’ll never get rid of it. It takes money for upkeep- but that’s on my terms. It’s reliable, and can be upgraded in a million ways, and the sound never disappoints.
Loved the content, got an 06 and plan on keeping it. If china decide to mess with the additive supply those trucks will be shut down. I’m barely into mine, with injectors and a torque converter. Bought a VGT turbo ( not installed) I’ve heard said the back cylinder has factory heating issues so no tunes till that is addressed. I’m getting 23 mpg on a 1ton. It’s a great start and pulls a 5th wheel with ease.
For cool shirts, sweatshirts, and more check out the Just Diesels merch store: just-diesels.com
You legit told the future aren’t they already getting rid of gas trucks by 2030??
@Justdiesels what do you think about the 5.7 tundras ??
Deff I don’t like ither.
Hey where could I buy the same double din and dash kit for my 08 dodge 6.7
My brother just got his 2022 ram 3500 with the high output. It’s an amazing truck… drove my 05 around today and loved the way it screams lol
I like that my 03 is paid off for a long time now. lol
@@chrism1966 Me too, paid it off when new for 32 k, SLT 4 dr, Cummins back in 2004. Still have it and updating it soon.
How long did it take from order date to get his truck?
@@Alpha_fitz it took a while
He placed his order last year and got it about 3 months ago. Got it from Montana
But it was a custom order so it took a little longer then normal truck
did your brother get the bagged suspension option?
As plastic as the interiors are in the third gens, I must say, they are incredibly easy to work on.. A few of my hvac control lights went out, and I had it completely disassembled and reassembled in 10 minutes.. Everything just pops together.. The new tech is great and I love the look of the 5th gens.. But the simplicity of the 3rd gens is awesome
Same in my 2020. Two screws and the whole center stacks pops out
How was the transmission on your third gen?
@@jasonbrown5014 Once upon a time, I did a boosted launch in 4wd and broke my second gear band... whoops😂 Thankfully a friend of mine is familiar with these trannys and walked me through fixing it.. And I must say, it was very easy.. 48re's really aren't nearly as bad as people make them sound. They can be built incredibly strong.. Would be nice having more gears though!
@@need4speed1967 Interesting. I keep reading that I should stay away from this generation of Ram, due to transmission issues. They are so cheap compared to a lot of other trucks though
@@need4speed1967 😂😂
I have a 2008 2500 Cummins Mega that i absolutely love. I hit a Texas sized pot hole over 100k miles ago and somehow lost weight and gained mileage and power. It is an automatic that got replaced with a better one almost 100k miles ago and still running strong. I had the seats recovered and driver seat rebuilt and all covered in Katskin custom leather that totally changed the look and feel of the truck. Non of the sound system is factory since I finally replaced the headunit with a touchscreen. Plan to keep it as long as possible.
This is by far the best diesel Channel I wish he made more videos
Thank you!! Getting back to once a week uploads again!
Please do. Also purchase a p7100 12v. You’re missing out lol
You deserve everything you have gotten in terms of diesels. You are a true ‘down to earth’ diesel enthusiast. Im not *yet* a diesel owner but im doing my research before I buy.
I can sell you my 2003, 5.9, 2x4, QCLB, with 166000 miles, for 15k.
Thanks for all your videos, you do a good job explaining things.
As an 07 5.9 mega cab owner, you know my vote. I love my truck with Thuren 3", upgraded steering, built trans, and all the goodies. With the price of new trucks, even being able to afford one, I'll probably never own a new truck again. Keep up the good work!
Older all day long. Now to preface, I went from 69 beetle to a 92 4 runner to 08 scion to an 18 ram 3500. Ram was the first new tech vehicle I ever bought. First off the showroom vehicle I ever owned. I loved how insulated it was from road noise and how smooth it was. All the tech and things it came with stock. It was an amazing truck and I hate that I sold it. That being said I’m fixing to buy my buddies 05 ram 2500. And all day I would take the 05 over my 18 or even a 22. I love the mechanical feel of everything. I adore the g56. And probably more than anything the exhaust note. And it has more than enough power.
I love all the new bells and whistles on new vehicles. Like a whole lot. But I’m a classics kind of guy. And like you said, there will only be fewer and fewer of them in existence as time goes on so, enjoy the fun older stuff if you can and while you can.
In my mind if I’m going to spend 70+ thousand on a truck, I’d rather spend that money making something older exactly how I want it.
Great video. Hit the nail on the head.
I have a 5.9 4x4 G56 Megacab. I like the older vehicles and worn out parts is an excuse to put the parts I want onto the truck (suspension, hydro ram steering, even aluminum blend doors for the HVAC when they failed). I prefer the old plastic over the new soft touch interiors as soft touch doesn't seem to last all that long especially with a little abuse. You can get the old trucks pretty close to the new trucks in terms of comfort. I took the time to Dynamat my truck cab and installed a 4 link rear suspension. The only thing that isn't available is tuned shocks for my air ride setup but that can likely be done with custom shock tuning given enough money. Too bad CA doesn't like you change anything close to emissions related; luckily that is not a limitation for me anymore. An upgraded turbo (likely VGT) is in my future.
I love my g56. I'm also about to put in aluminum blend doors lol. Can't wait to put in a new clutch next year and then she will be all good. Can't decide between the volair or south bend.
nothing beats a deleted diesel, its really the best of both worlds
The legal and illegal one?
I watched a good vid from a young fellow in Canada where it is at least marginally legal, deleted a new HD Cummins and it was a BEAST!
@@erictheoffle3239 yeah here in bc deletes are completely legal however ford and other brands have started making it physically impossible to delete their new diesels
Agreed
Ca smog tests😫
What I LOVE about my 3rd gen is the feel hands down! You feel connected to the truck. You actually have to feel it to drive it smooth. Manual or not you feel the older trucks and that does SO much more for me than luxury and more stock power ever could
Bought my 06 new 17 years ago. Drive it every day. No emissions crap. New water pump at 100k, new AC compressor 125k, rebuilt 48re transmission at 135k!! $5000!! New original front seat covers. New paint with UV proof clearcoat. Had all body dings fixed. UV clearcoat on headlight lenses. New rear bumper (always bumping into things when backing into parking spaces). Long bed fully coated inside. Rides like a truck, sounds like a diesel truck. Regularly visit relatives 400 miles door to door with a little over half a tank of diesel left when I arrive. Last of the pre emissions pickups. 137,000 miles. Hope to keep it for the rest of my life.
When I was shopping for my truck I had pretty much decided I wanted an '03 to '06 5.9, but wanted to see what I was really missing by not going newer. I test drove a '14 from a local dealer and it went into limp mode less than 2 miles from the dealer. I do have to admit it was a very comfortable place to be broken down.
Lol! 😄
pahhahahaha salemans probably was sweating bullets.
Can't beat the sound of the older Cummings & the ease of working on them but the comfort of the new trucks are hard to beat as well. So either way I think it's a win win situation.
Great comparison! I bought a new Dodge 2500 Cummins in 2004 and just in the last couple of years had the trans and converter rebuilt and upgraded, new Bosch injecters , CP3, total front suspension rebuild etc.
This year plans - paint, sound deadening, entertainment/ camera unit, new door glass and seals, etc.
I picked up a clean 2001 3/4 QC long bed a couple months ago with only 121,000 miles for approx $20k. Planning on putting about $15k in it on suspension upgrades and new paint/bedliner and drive it for years.
My husband bought that exact truck new in 2002. It just rolled over on 627k. Love that truck!
Goodness, well I guess they’re worth that nowadays. Great trucks my 01 1 ton can keep up with the Jeeps in the sand dunes, mainly cos it’s on an 8in lift with 37s. Not
Bad for a diesel 4x4 5 speed
Loved the video comparing New to pre-emmision trucks. I have a 2014 tradesman 2500 with the max tow package. Repairs to the DEF/DPF system are ridiculously expensive. Would like to see a video on the pros and cons of a full delete.
He won't being in CA. Pro more power no bs. Con federal crime don't go to NY or CA. I personally never cared about the crime since the presidents limo is deleted so screw em.
There are no cons.
if you drive like your saposed to the emissions give next to no problems. run long run hard. idel time messes up the emissions.
Then only con I can think of is the need for repair say something happens that alone can't fix and need to take to a shop unless that shop is able to take a chance I would not go for an full delete I honestly would keep.the egr on but just shut it down and keep it shut on top of that you must check your states local laws on that if they don't do emissions test do go for it
The only con is if the feds show up or a law is passed. Everything else is a pro
I can’t believe how much the old trucks are going for now 😳😳
I can't believe how much the new trucks are going for.
Got my ‘12 3500 6 years ago come April. Best truck I’ve ever had. Granted a few years ago it lost some weight after hitting a pothole, but I’ve never had any real issues with it in that aspect. And as the miles keep adding up, it only runs better and better
I love my 06 2500 cummins 4x4! I would not buy the 2019, you are exactly right in the fact that older trucks have character, but always need attention to the details. and by not spending $60-90k on a truck I have a lot left over for fuel and parts! Great video content thank you!
I went from ‘04.5 2500 to ‘15 3500 and now I just bought a ‘22 1500 hemi. I miss the 5.9 every single day, the 6.7 never replaced the fun I had driving the old 5.9. The 3rd gen was by far the most fun vehicle I’ve ever had. Great video, thanks.
I wish I could like a video twice. Super well done comparison! I have an 09 mega cab with a 6.7/68rfe. I wish I had the g56!
Swap a g56 into it or trade it for one. I have g56 and it’s not relaxing to drive long trips like an auto but I prefer to pull with a manual.
Thanks for the info.
I’m new to owning a diesel and or a truck really. I’ve owned a 1970 C-10 Chevy Suburban 3 door and a 1998 Ford Explorer XLT before purchasing a 2016 Ram Laramie Diesel Dually a few months back.
I must admit I’m having fun learning from people like yourself what makes these trucks special.
I look forward to hearing more about the ins and outs of these vehicles so that I may learn a bit more about them.
Thanks again!
I daily an 07 5.9 4x4 G56. The 3rd gen hood slopes downward giving optimum frontal visibility.
Starting with 4th gen, the hood leading edges got taller causing huge blind spot in front.
I actually had a whole section of the video talking about that but decided to cut it. You’re spot on! Third gens are WAY easier to see out of though!
Lol, my 1997 f350 CCLB with a 10 inch lift on 40s and tinted windows is nothing but 1 giant blind spot 🤣. I can't see anything in front or behind me. I really need to get an "always on" backup camera to replace/coincide with my rearview mirror, as I can't tell you how many times I've been at a stoplight or something, and a little Honda Civic or something small is parked right behind me and I cannot see it. I also have no idea where the front of my truck/bumper is, so it's only a matter of time until I hit something
If you check under the hood, that bulge is because of the EGR plumbing. A nice scalding hot pipe located right where your arms want to sit while working on it!
Completely agree, 3rd gen is the best model design they had so far. I have an 06' Cummins 3500 g56 4x4 and 99 Cummins 2500 4x4 47re (both work trucks) electrical is total garbage though...99' 4x4 vacuum system is trash too...
Love my 05' 5.9 G56 Ram ... becoming a bit of a unicorn in the north
Great job Adam. Well said. I personally love my 06 for all the reasons you mentioned. The sound, manual trans and they’re easy to work on. My wife isn’t a fan of all the things I mentioned and for that I’d get her a newer Ram if I could swing it. Thanks again Adam. Love the content your putting out.
Just doing oil changes is sooo much easier on a 3rd gen!
You need a new wife
I have an 05 diesel, six speed manual, crew cab, longbed, same dark grey paint as yours, just rolled over 125k miles. I bought it new and plan to keep it until the wheels fall off and then put them back on.
Congrats on approaching break in lol
I love the character of the older trucks, but once you get used to how the new trucks drive and their interiors it's really hard to go back. Great video, thanks!
for me it was easy. i actually sat and drove a 2020 Ram and instantly said. NOPE im staying with my old 2nd gen. These new cars, yes all new cars for me not just trucks, feel way to cramped inside and all that elctronic wish wash, i dont need that. and they are not that much more comfortable for me. you just have to know how to care for the stuff you have and replace reppair intime. which is another point. i can disassemble my 2nd gen outside my door. cant do that with a new one.
@@Madhuntr was easy for me as well. I went back to an older truck from my 21’ ram with no second thoughts.
@Madhuntr the new trucks are alot bigger inside then the old ones
I owned a 2nd gen loved it but I own a 22 3500 cummins and I absolutely love it it's comfortable and tows amazing I'll never go back to older trucks
What your doing with it has EVERYTHING 2 do with your opinion. Im either constantly dragging a toyhauler, gooseneck, or tagalong trailer. The newer the truck the better hands down!
I really enjoy finding things at auction you find some nice gems occasionally.
Excellent review Andrew. Straight to the point. I have 2 2gens and a 2020. I drive my 2gen more bcos it's my service truck and I also take it on an occasional road trip. I don't drive the 5gen as much, but when I wanna take my boat to the lake I will use it. There times when its nice to get into a comfortable truck and have car play and not worry about it. However, when things go bad in the new trucks (got contaminated fuel), things get complicated and expensive fast. I had to have all 6 injectors replaced at 8k miles. My 24v 2 gen has had water in fuel multiple times, and all I did was run the lift pump and some good fuel and it was fixed. If I didn't have both trucks, already paid for, I would keep my 2 gen and get a deleted manual 4 gen, no def
I went from a SLT 99 Cummins to a 17 SLT. Figured I didn’t need all the extra comforts in the cab till I go on a long 2000mile + road trip pulling my camp trailer with my family. Now I wished I’d spent the money on the little extras in the cab. I love my 17 but sometimes I also miss the old dawg. Great video!
A few weeks ago I went to start up our old 2003 pre emissions with no glow plugs or wait to start, and it hadn't been plugged in. It fired RIGHT up... So fast I called my dad and asked if he had been driving it and he said no That's just how the old ones are and that's why they liked them so much... I'll never go back
Glow plugs? What?
The cummins uses a heater grid in the intake, none if the ISB engines have plugs
Best option, deleted 6.7. Better interior, sometimes better look, depends on your preference. But a more refined engine and trans if you get good tunes. Depending on where you live tho, you could get trouble coming your way
Unless you live in CT where you can’t pass emissions every couple years without the stock emissions system and if you can’t pass emissions you can’t re-register the truck every few years 😢
@@gregellaljr3072 it’s illegal everywhere. You just only get tested for emissions in certain places that’s why I said depending on where you live. I’d still do it anyway but just have a stock ECU and exhaust ready to put on when I gotta get tested
That green truck is absolutely gorgeous!
Awesome video! Very detailed, best part “if you based your manhood on not being comfortable in your truck, that’s ok” lmao - I prefer to be as comfortable as I can be, these trucks are meant for long rides on the road, I don’t like getting to a destination sore and beaten up by the rough ride.
Had to say it since someone comments something about that on every video!
Great vid. Every time I watch one of your videos, I am taken aback by how clean your truck is. That’s not a typical example of what you find on the used market, but it is a beauty for sure…
I paid 45k for a new 2019 2500 4x4 (pre pandemic); tradesman quad with the 6.5 bed. I think the tradesman is the best value, all the benefits of a new truck and the interior is still better than the old trucks. It had the 8" screen and that's enough tbh. I spent about $1k upgrading headlights and door panels. Overall, I am happy with what I spent for what I get out of it. Tradesman was the way to go for me.
Had I found examples like your truck on the used market when I was shopping. Damn, that would have been a hard decision...
2 years ago I bought a 2005 Ram 2500 with the 5.7 Cummins,and I love it 👍
I retired 2 years ago. Wife and I bought a new 5th wheel and had to make decision to get a new one or. So I made the decision to Put about 12k in my 05 manual dually. My son gets great discounts through his job on the parts and I did all work my self. So 12k bought me quite a lot. Really love my old truck and really like working it myself. So I now know I will never own a new one but like my wife I love the old one "the wife". Keep up the good work brother.
Older the better I have a 93/ first GEN. And it’s been a great truck.
I have a brand new Superduty but your videos make me wish I had a 3rd gen to have fun with! If it was just me I would have a 3rd gen for sure but, being that I have a family and do long road trips the new trucks are where it’s at for me.
Great videos as always!
The quality of your videos is unmatched. Great looking green ram
i have a 2020 ram 2500 with carli pintop leveling kit and 37'" and method 704 and i love it. i wouldn’t trade it. my motor all stock and the putting def in really isnt a big deal to me. and for me the truck has more than enough power for what i do with it. there is nothing wrong with the older rams, but i like the new tech and heated and ac seats.
Just wait until you have 150k+ miles on it and you’ve dumped thousands of dollars into emissions related failures and sensors that put you in limp mode, when you’d be just breaking in an older pre-emissions truck.
@@psychology2217 I don't know. I think it's by case. Just bought 22 Cummins. I typically keep my trucks 150k to 175k miles. By that point, even a gasser isn't wore out for motor and transmission. Traded my 14 1500 in on it, 153k miles bought new. I replaced a wheel bearing, some of the latches like the tailgate was showing its age. I traded it because the wear parts were at the end of their life. I would have had to replace all of the wearable parts on the truck to keep it.
The heavy trucks are the same. Had an F350 single wheel, 6 speed 6.0. Ran fine, bit it needed knuckle work, shocks, I had replaced the Ujoints couple times....etc. it had 175k, sold it private party.
Like I said, not saying you are wrong, but it depends on the use case. Love my 22, and at the same time, it will be paid off a couple years before I'm tired of small stuff needing replaced, I will go find a new one.
Even stock they’re very slow with emissions don’t lie
@@psychology2217 my def filter on my 18 went at 64,000......lol...I got that fixed
Cole’s truck is literally my dream truck. It’s the best looks rig on the road. I have no idea why Ram never made that color in the night package
Completely agree I live in NorCal in the country east of Stockton in the lower foothills. I have a 3rd Gen 04 and I will never get rid of it. In fact I try to get any extra parts I can for it. There are literally anywhere from 300-500 1st, 2nd and 3rd gens that drive by my house every day hauling livestock and equipment. I’m on the hunt for a late second Gen myself as I think these were the best truck in my lifetime. Yes like you said one day we will all have to give up our pre emissions trucks for the late great high efficient low emissions trucks and I will wait for a comfy truck until then. The price tag is not worth it for me. I’d rather be able to make my own fuel out of vegetable oils and be self sufficient if diesel were to become unavailable. You can’t run a newer truck off French fry oil but an old 24v 5.9 will take what ever you throw at it.
I have a 2018 3500 dually. Deleted the emissions, I have 80 000 miles on it. No issues at all. I love it.
I have an 01 2nd gen and I love it! You are absolutely correct on the sound of an older Cummins. Turbo back straight 4” exhaust. Nothing sounds like it. I would love a new truck but I can’t justify $80k + for a new one. I don’t tow 20k + trailers and don’t have a contracting job to write it off on taxes. Maybe one day I can get one. Also the wife said that I would have to get rid of my old truck to get a new one.😞 Said I don’t need two trucks. She just doesn’t understand.
Your wife said you can't have two trucks? Is she paying the bills?
After owning both these trucks, this comparison is absolutely 💯 spot on. Up north we gut the emissions right away, making the 4th gen just as reliable and fuel efficient!!
Sup hero. I got a 06 3500 g56 dually i bought brand new 122,000 miles still absolutely love it. But those 5th gens are nice no doubt but I want spend that kind of money for the difference love your channel God speed brother 👍👍
Just bought a 06 3500 Laramie 4x4 manual crewcab long bed completely stock with 200k miles for 16k. Injectors weren't replaced so has blowby. So new engine with head studs and Big iron oil pan, bigger turbo, bigger Injectors, bigger exhaust manifold, dual disk clutch, coolant bypass, fass fuel pump and filtration, gauges, tuner and labor to have all work done. Im all in for 40k and im sitting at 450 hp when needed 😊
I have a bone stock 2006 quad cab 2500 4x4. 74k original miles. No mods and runs perfect. I love the truck but think the comfort and reliability of the new rigs are great too. Great video and I couldn’t agree more with your assessment.
Daily drive an 03’. Love every second of it. 465k miles so it’s showing it’s age. Just had to do a TPS sensor. But 15 minutes later and she was back to running strong as ever. I’m biased though, it’s my dream truck lol. Working on getting some updated steering components and wanting to get a carli suspension setup in the future. Just miss daisying her until then. Love the content.
I didn't read all the comments, but the new rams have hydraulic lifters, plus like you said all the emission stuff. Keep your truck. I have an 03 3500 with a manual.. no issues ever.
Love these videos. Glad you are back to posting some new content!
I have to say, I agree with everything you’re saying about these two trucks. I have a 2013 Ford 6.7 that I deleted and tuned and it’s been stellar…that being said, the way I had it done it still passes emissions with flying colors here in AZ. I considered buying a new 2022 Super Duty but the prices on these new trucks is outrageous!
I’m running a 2006 ram 3500, love it to death
3rd gen all day easy to make lots of power especially with no emissions equipment. 3rd gen is the most refined 5.9 platform. The 48 is a amazing trans built if you wanna hot rod around. It’s a hot rodding diesel enthusiast dream truck just like the 12v
Did you just say the 48RE is a amazing trans? Lmao thats the worst thing about the old cummins and now the 68RFe is an even bigger POS
My 04 3500 srw is would love higher than 16mpg on highway..... 24mpg empty at 70 should be an option
200K miles on my 48RE and still running strong, new fluid every 50k miles no a single issue knocking on wood.
Maybe it’s just perspective but I love the 4 speed with the Cummins. I love the 4th gear dump in my 04’. Dumped the cash into the 04’ instead of a new one because I love the way it drives so much
I too love the 4 gear dump in my 06 so throaty.
Nice video. I’ve been diesel all my life. Currently have (2) 2002 F250 powerstrokes (his and hers) with over 340,000 miles each. The bummer is they are both 2wd super cabs and the kiddos are outgrowing the back for our long road trips. Been looking at finding a 4x4 crew cab Ford ‘99-‘02….buuuuuut really been digging the ‘06-‘07 mega cab with the 5.9. I’m in a different Position than most as being a plumbing contractor has afforded me the lifestyle to afford any truck or even sportscar that you can find on any lot in the country. With that said, it just doesn’t make sense to me to spend $80k + on a truck in this current market. I’d rather spend $30-$35k on a used ‘06-‘07 and be good to go for another 15 years. My local diesel repair shop has a nice boneyard full of DEF compliant diesels with 170,000 miles that basically require waaaaaay to much money to fix.
I'm going to go with the vintage truck. Don't have to worry about something going wrong with the extra exhaust systems if the factory never put it on the truck to begin with (and on the really old trucks, the diesel exhaust doesn't smell as bad as the newer exhaust does with whatever is being mixed with it, I think it's ammonia, not too sure tho).
When looking for a Ram 7 years ago, I knew DEF was going to be a continual issue. Deletes are/were passé and illegal. So I focused on pre-DEF and got an 07 5.9 megacab. I glance at the newer trucks occasionally, but keep coming back to mine being paid off. Last week, noticed a guy analyzing the truck in the post office parking lot. Announcing myself, I said, "It's not for sale." He knew a lot about the upgrades I had made. Obvious he liked it. He also knew a lot of each generation Ram Cummins truck. 3 spots back was his. A 2017 Ram Cummins. He hated the DEF system. But, he knew old school. He also had a '95 1st Gen.
I have a 2007 2500 laramie with the 5.9 Cummins and I love it. I bought it brand new and it has 122,000 miles on it. Sadly I had to put a transmission in it this week. I went with the Jasper stock. I have pulled some heavy boats with it across mountains and it never bother it a bit. No plans on trading it or selling. I also have a 1989 4wd also I bought new with the 318. Still use it as my old work truck. Loved your video because I felt it was honest and true. Thanks
Your 06 is clean!!! the color match and badge delete really set it off. I would definitely buy a 2006 Ram.
I have purchased a 1-ton 3rd gen dually 2006 and absolutely love it and currently here in San Diego this California truck is getting a rebuild from the engine to the suspension transmission my first diesel truck and glad it has already have a delete muffler a aftermarket intercooler 5in exhaust
I bought my 07' Mega Cab in 2020 with only 119 000 miles in great shape. It took me about a year to find one, but it was worth it. I love the hood on it, the huge cab, simplicity since I work on it and plan on owning it for the next 20+ years. One thing I will do though is an upgrade to Allison once the 48RE is done:)
For me it all revolves around what is affordable. I can not see spending 100K or more for a diesel rig. All the other things like comfort reliability and looks take a back seat to being affordable, I paid just under 18K out the door from my friendly local Chevrolet dealer 4 years ago. I have a 2004.5 Dodge Ram 2500 with the 325 HP engine. Dead stone reliable, completely stock and it can easily haul my 5th wheel.
The price of the new ones is absolutely ridiculous you can get a decent house for the price of a F450 Platinum
Got the same truck, Vin C rather than 6
@@Brandon68plus1 i dont understand who has the money for these trucks. i have a masters degree and i cringe at the thought of paying $35,000 for a vehicle, let alone $70,000 lmao. There must be a demand for it though because you can barely even find single cab, long bed work trucks on the lot these days. You can find plenty of $60k trucks though. It's just...who the hell is buying them?
@@jasonbrown5014 I paid cash for one two days ago. Sad state the world is in, but if you want a new truck you have to pay to play
@@Mistro07 😞
I had the same decisions my friend. I sold my 2003 2by 2 2500 after 10 years. Loved it. The 2by2 was super fast with a 63 MM turbo and a Smarty. Then purchased a MEGA CAB 4 by 4 Yeehaa. Oh Crap 1500 pounds heavier then the 2 WD model , time for injectors and a Dragon CP3.
The 5.9 engine is the winner in beast wars. I have twin snales/turbos and love it, the boost gauages come up to 50PSI very fast. My mechanic mentioned do not get a newer then 2007 truck. His words are the holy water for diesel performance. :) I love the simplicity of the 5.9. I do like how you mention that the 2018 or newer are much better the older gen truck. I was not aware of this. Great comparison video my fellow diesel brother. I have to post my video of my Cummins rims. Yes each hub on my wheel has the Cummins emblem. I love Cummins do not car about dodge...But the 5.9 is as good as the best pole dancer you will ever find :) :) I owe you a couple of cases of beer for your great video. If you comment back I will send you my Cummins rims.
On a Side note I am interested in creating a TESLA look for my 2007. Something that matches the Ford Lightning. If I get there I will share defiantly share that video with you. Need to create the grill and light combo.
Take care my friend.
I had 2 Cummins equipped Dodge trucks, a 1993 and a 1998. Both were 12 valve with manual transmissions. They were both really great trucks. Wish I still had one of them. My son bought a 2021 last year and I have to say it is a great truck. Comfortable, powerful and great looks. While I wish it were available with a manual, the 6-speed automatic shifts nicely and smoothly and feels very efficient. If I were in the market for a 3/4 ton truck I would have no problem buying one of these but it is simply more truck than I really need at this point. Thanks for the comparison.
I don’t want to tinker and wrench anymore. New truck all day. Great video.
I came from the 05 Duramax world and when Ram had a special on 2014's with free Cummins, I went and got a 2014 Laramie CCSB 2500. It's been a great truck other then it had a ton of recalls being it 2014 was the first year of the 4th gen 2500. There was a couple of emission system recalls and I've never had any emission issues. I love Ram's interiors compared to Ford and GM. My 68RFE had a couple of updates from Ram and it's never been a problem.
Moved from a compound turbo 97 12v manual that I had for 15 years. Got a 2021 HO 3500 SRW and fully deleted it plus some other fun parts. I effing love my 2021. Switching was one of the best decisions. As for reliability, my 12v was constantly breaking down. It was just old and tired. Was throwing so much money at it. My new truck is worry free. No nickel and diming
You said the key word though. Deleted!
Love your content. Keep it up. I went with an 04 5.9. Looks just like yours just not as clean. Put a built tranny in it and a 100 hp smarty setting. Happy as can be. It does nickel and dime me. But I own it outright. Pulled 20k on a gooseneck flatbed from Portland to Montana last week. Got 12-14 mpg and towed like a dream. If I could afford (pay cash) for a newer one I would. But for now I’m good.
Great video, keep in mind though the newer 4th gens are crew cab not quad cab. A little bigger than quad cab. I just wish the quad cab was a little bigger in the backseat and they’d be perfect (like the current crew cab)
My 05 came with emissions equipment, a Catalytic converter and it was gone 1 hr after purchase! No CEL no BS. It runs like a champ!! 216k
This truck is very nice especially the 5th gens they look amazing
I have a '05 that had its tranny gone through so it's got the billet torque converter and it's exactly like you say, lots of power, it just doesn't seem to translate to the ground and it seems to need an extra gear and is too high of RPM at 60mph. I wish there was a way to put the truck in Hwy mode when it's flat so you can lower the cruising RPM.
The owner I bought my truck from had a brand new 2022 in his driveway that looked identical to what you had in this video and he said the ride is incredible and the towing is really great. He flew from OR to TX to get the blacked out version he wanted and drove it back.
I laughed because the truck I was buying from him is a Laramie sport that he blacked out himself with aftermarket parts.
You have nicer wheels than I have, and a sunroof. Super jealous of that sunroof.
I'm super glad I bought a pre-emissions truck. I almost went with a newer 6.7 just to get the mega cab but said fuck it. So glad of my choice.
Going from my 2nd gen to my late 4th gen and even dads 5th trucks is a huge night a day difference. I’ve taken the 2nd gen to Houston a few times about 5hr drive for me and I needed a chiropractor after. But, the new trucks have a numb feeling like your just holding the steering wheel. So there are trade offs. I’m just impressed with the quality of the new rams because for years they’ve been cheaper built mainly interior wise. To me the later 3rd gens have the worse seats out of them all and that’s saying a lot considering my 2nd gen seats weren’t great.
I have a 06 Big Horn 2500, quad cab, long bed, 48re that I bought new. Love the the truck. Went full Banks (CARB legal) from the air filter to the exhaust tip, including his intercooler and Economind tuner. Tuner level 6 gives 425 hp an 845 ft lb of torque, but the truck is always driven in level 2, which gives more power and better mileage than stock. You said that you updated your steering, but still get wandering. The best single mod I made to my truck was installing a steering box brace. The truck tracks like a car now and the wonder lust problem is solved. If you didn't include one of those in your upgrade, you should try it.
I agree with the reliability point. You may not have the catastrophic drivetrain malfunctions, or emissions problems, but if you like to properly maintain your truck, the little things are going to nickle and dime you. Interior stuff is hard to find, electrical problems may start to arise because of material breakdown, door seals may start to go out, door hinges etc. You're not saving in that area, just spending differently.
I have an 05 with 6 speed manual. It has 215,000 and is currently having new Bosch reman injectors, head rebuild, and a high flow two piece exhaust manifold. I rebuilt the front Axial, not the pig, and added manual front hubs. I'm in Michigan and the county like to dump salt all over even when they don't need it so rust is setting in. I'm examining replacing the cab and putting an aluminum flat bed on it. It is a farm truck but I'd still like to keep it nice. The other thing I am looking at is Smarty Jr tuner. At my job we bought a 2009 6.7 liter. The milage was terrible. 10 to 15 mpg. I didn't think this truck had much more than my 5.9 did. When the emissions system started acting up we had it deleted with a 40 HP single set tune. Its getting 17 to 18 just running around. I get 23 mgp empty on the highway and 19 to 20 hauling a three horse trailer with two horses hay and gear. Hit 26.9 empty in the Smokey Mountains.
I’d love to have both. Such different animals. However, I think the elephant in the room in this comparison is that you’re missing the single best modification to these 3rd gens - a properly built 48. It literally transforms the truck. There’s something to be said for the “experience” and “drama” of the older trucks - especially when built. I’d love to see you get a Firepunk/Randy’s transmission and reassess. Great video, man!
Very good video, as a dodge ram fanatic myself i agree with almost all of these points, but as a diesel master tech, i disagree with the reliability portion. Hand in hand the engine portions of the 5.9l and 6.7l are absolutely reliable as can be better then any other diesel thats ever been made in my 18 years of working on them, however the emmisions still to this day have an extreme amount of issues, nox sensors, def pumps, dosing valves, egr issues, vgt problems in the turbo all are extremely common failures on a daily that i see in my shop ( issues you obviously would not have in the 5.9l ), i would say in most instances i see customers with the 6.7ls around 100k have had to replace the turbo, vgt actuator, egr, def dosing valve, and def pump ( around 12k worth of parts) where a 5.9l is still just getting its 10th oil change. However, i have also seen many deleted 6.7ls come through that are just as reliable as any 5.9l ( due to the fact that there is no activated emissions now).
Most underrated comment out there. What you think of a deleted non emission 6.7 tho
@@cesarbarragancesarjr5279 I would say that in my opinion a deleted 6.7l is just as good as any old 5.9l at that point.
I've owned probably 20 diesel trucks over the years, my daily driver is an 06 Cummins 4x4 ,manual 6 speed, long bed, stock. I got on an airplane and flew 1000 miles to buy it when I found it. I installed leather lariat longhorn seats from a 4th Gen to improve comfort. Only complaint is the small back seat and hearing my children complain. Lol
Bought my 06 new in 06 for $48,000. 4.10s front and rear. Problems...water pump at 75k, AC at 100k, transmission rebuild at 135k(!!!). Darn 48RE! No emission controls. Has 900 freeway and interstate mile range on fillup. No dents or dings. Repainted and coated with UV proof clearcoat. Looks like brand new and beautiful and simple to my wife and I compared to new diesel trucks
and it's ours. No payments.
I own a 2016 Long Horn Laramie with King Thuren suspension. I love it. I like and would have liked a 3rd gen but the rear seating for kids/dogs whatever, was just not great. As for this video and your question, which would you take..... either.. both are killer. I have had a new and old body Tacomas, I had a 2nd gen raptor, I had 7.3 Superduty but genuinely enjoy my RAM. Regardless of the emission stuff, the Ram is overall one of the easier trucks to work on IMO, which is a huge plus.
I’m a new Subscriber. Love the content being put out. I personally have a 3 gen (2008) mega cab w/Carli Suspension and use it for my plumbing business. Saving up for a 5th gen Ram for the reason you mentioned. Comfort
@Just Diesels Best upgrade I did to my 3rd gen (among a very long list) was a 4th gen seat swap (electric/lumbar) + Katzkin leather and heated seats. Fabbed up a conversion harness for the drivers side electric seat with the help of my multimeter. Got the seats out of a wrecked low mileage 2018. The seats are so much better than the 3rd gens and the whole cab just feels like a better made vehicle (not a parts bin feeling truck like you refer to). Close second was sound deadening the doors, roof, c-pillars and rear panel of the cab. Long drives while towing are 100% better.
We have a 2007 3500. We tow a 10,000 trailer, in which we live in full time on the road, and are full time musicians (not very rich). We're also retired and on SSS, so again not rich.
Our truck has 200k plus miles, and has a bunch of problems, although the engine still runs strong and MANY things have been done to it, We have a fully built trans, aftermarket exhaust brake (currently inop), all possible front end mods, locking hubs, etc. However, as I said, lots of problems, the worst being overheating when pulling long hills towing our house. I replaced the radiator with a higher efficiency aluminum one, and replaced the thermostat, and of course, the water pump twice.
The other major prob is that it wanders when pulling, which feels like it's trying to swap ends all the time.I can alleviate this somewhat by dropping down the rear airbags, but still....
Then, the CD player is fried, heated seats don't, has exhaust leak (gasket), exhaust brake is dead (reason unknown at this time), electric seat movement is now mostly dead, etc.... Just trying to decide which way to go. We're in our late 60's/early 70's and I no longer take pleasure in crawling under the truck or hanging under the hood, especially in the winter here in Washington (used to be in Calif, but people on the road are SO VERRRRY much nicer here!!!).
Oh yeah, I forgot to mention.. It gets around 15 MPG towing, and has gotten 25MPG with our fiberglass cabover work type camper, as long as I don't put my foot in it and keep the speeds lower!
I figure we have maybe 10-15 years left before we have to hang up the old steering wheel, and want something that will make it that far..
Don't know if I'm looking for advice or just spewing....
Glad your uploading again. Good video for me especially. As I'm shopping for a good 3rd gen but was looking into 4th gens. This video made me rethink getting a 4th gen
Look for a pre 2013 4th gen they don’t have DEF and you get some more technology than 3rd gen.
@@Brandon68plus1 yeah I figured. My dad has a 2012 and I love the fact it has no DEF
My daily driver is an 08 1500 5.7 Hemi TRX 4. 6" Cali lift on 295/70/r17 on zero offset rims and a true trac dif. It dose all I need it to do on and off road. And easy to fix and parts are cheap/ warrantied. Wouldn't give this one up even if they gave me a new 22 RAM trx4. My truck has been well taken care of 💓
My daily driver is a 1st gen, 1993 Dodge W350 4x4 with a manual transmission! No BS sensors or Emissions!
I just went from new to old. Im selling a 2020 L5P Chevy High Country and just bought an 06 Cummins G56 4x4. I have no regrets.
there's a caveat you're missing here; don't make the truck TOO old otherwise you'll spend new truck money to get to there.
Bought an OBS 7.3 with this mindset, and quickly realized antiquated technology is WORSE than emissions hassle. Ideally I should've bought a late model super duty 7.3 and did all my work to IT, or a third gen cummins or LBZ, but noooo I was ignorant and now I'm wasting money breaking my back on an old school vehicle. Wonderful video explaining the differences :)
here is what I hate on the new RAM Laramie - I rented one for a weekend to try it out - The hood. It's too high and takes up too much of my visual area out the front windsheild. It was hard enough on the third gen, but now it's terrible. This is not just against RAM but all the new trucks. Bring the hoods down so I can see better!
I ended up finding a 2004 2500 w/o DEF and virtually no rust. I paid almost 20000 for it but now I think I could sell it for a lot more.
I like the older trucks for several reasons and interior is one of them. They are well insulated and still very comfortable. I replaced the stock radio in the truck and now it has backup cam and carplay. it looks great inside/out and runs great.
My ‘19 plugged the DPF to the point in needed to be replaced at 500 miles. The CP4 was also waiting on parts for a recall to move it back to a CP3. They also run through a ton of DEF compared to my ‘14. I went back to a 4th gen with 5” TBE and EFI live. I miss the a few things, but I don’t miss the payment!
I live in michigan with no emissions, got a 03 cummins with the 6 speed and is definitely the most fun truck ive ever driven
Your darn right! Ive had both bare bones and fully loaded! No going back!
Original ‘03 with 300k. I’ll never get rid of it. It takes money for upkeep- but that’s on my terms. It’s reliable, and can be upgraded in a million ways, and the sound never disappoints.
I'm actually going to disagree with the warranty. My 2018 had a terrible pcm problem and they would not replace the pcm so it just had to be sold
Loved the content, got an 06 and plan on keeping it. If china decide to mess with the additive supply those trucks will be shut down. I’m barely into mine, with injectors and a torque converter. Bought a VGT turbo ( not installed) I’ve heard said the back cylinder has factory heating issues so no tunes till that is addressed. I’m getting 23 mpg on a 1ton. It’s a great start and pulls a 5th wheel with ease.
great content I love the older trucks
I think I would still go with an older truck only because I’m into highly modifying them but the new trucks are soooooo good. Good vid.