After talking to a few friends who own newer Ram 3500 and since I am wanting to save money on my TV, they suggested looking into a 1998-2001 12V Cummins as opposed to a later model 24V.I am looking at two trucks both have 200,000 miles1 is a 1998 Ram 3500 with 12V CumminsThe other is a 2004 ram 3500 with 24V CumminsBoth a DRW and in very good condition. Problem is both are high mileage and about $8000 difference for the 2004.Given the mileage, which would make more sense and less overall trouble towing. The newer model, or buying the 1998 and planning to rebuild trans/engine before I retire and start towing fulltime?

Couple years ago I went from a 1994 with 235,000 miles to a 2005 with 108,000 miles and have been very pleased. Now have 140 K on the 2005 with no problems . Good mileage and lots of power. Probably depends on how they are maintained.

I would go with the 04 but really don't like either choice due to high mileage for fulltiming.If only to stay local it would be ok.

No comparison, the 04 is a far more advanced platform and will get the same or better mileage.

Well your are talking a Cummins engine, I bought mine with 234,000 miles and currently have 260,000 still pulling strong with an 11,000# 5er in tow.I have done some maintenance and upgrades, but the engine has been fine, uses less than a quart of oil in a 10,000 oil change interval.Worry more about the condition of the truck, body and interior, the engine will likely be fine, diesels are made to work.

What do you consider high mileage? Regardless I'd go with the 2004 hands down. Personally I have an 03 Ram DRW and love it. Tows beautifully whether it's a small 5000 lb TT or a 14,000 lb 5er.

2004 Dodge Ram high mileage 24V vs 1998 12V | Good Sam Community

45 Replies

greenenvy1
Explorer
Jun 13, 2013
What do you consider high mileage? Regardless I'd go with the 2004 hands down. Personally I have an 03 Ram DRW and love it. Tows beautifully whether it's a small 5000 lb TT or a 14,000 lb 5er.
rhagfo
Explorer III
Jun 13, 2013
Well your are talking a Cummins engine, I bought mine with 234,000 miles and currently have 260,000 still pulling strong with an 11,000# 5er in tow.
I have done some maintenance and upgrades, but the engine has been fine, uses less than a quart of oil in a 10,000 oil change interval.
Worry more about the condition of the truck, body and interior, the engine will likely be fine, diesels are made to work.
ScottG
Nomad
Jun 13, 2013
No comparison, the 04 is a far more advanced platform and will get the same or better mileage.
cabanaman
Explorer
Jun 13, 2013
I would go with the 04 but really don't like either choice due to high mileage for fulltiming.If only to stay local it would be ok.
Camreal
Explorer
Jun 13, 2013
Couple years ago I went from a 1994 with 235,000 miles to a 2005 with 108,000 miles and have been very pleased. Now have 140 K on the 2005 with no problems . Good mileage and lots of power. Probably depends on how they are maintained.

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2004 Dodge Ram high mileage 24V vs 1998 12V

45 Replies

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