Bionic Man wrote:
Interesting read. I am very satisfied with my current truck, but am happy that there are options out there.
You have made quite a few references to the fact that the HDT is a fraction of the price you paid for your RAM. I am curious how the interiors and driver comfort compare? Have you compared to the newer trucks? How many miles are on the HDT? Did the PO refurbish interior when they made it into an RV hauler.
And, for those of you that have spoken about cost to license, I must say I am jealous. My truck is now 2 years old, just got the registration renewal. Almost $800. I love living in Colorado, but not when it comes time to buy tags.
Howdy Bionic Man,
Some cost break downs, I bought my Dodge new $38K, two built transmissions the first one failed because of a bad torque converter, 6K each time, air intake and exhaust mods 2K, air bags-sway bar-heavy duty shocks-spring movement limiters 2K, bolt on camper tie downs 1K, Super-Hitch and extension 1K, B&W goose neck and 5th wheel hitch 1.3K, Pac-Brake exhaust brake 1K, Super-Cooler for the transmission 1K, Front bumper and winch 2.5K, Rino-Liner in the bed .8K, CB radio .25K, running boards-fender flairs-mud flaps 1K, I know that I am forgetting a lot of little things that would easily add up to at least another 1K or more so to date I have at least $62,850.00 dollars in my Dodge that now has 89,000 miles on it. Oh I just thought of this, the Dodge will soon need its third set of tires, the tires on the HDT will dry rot before I'll ever wear them out.
The HDT has 735,000 miles on it, I paid $25,000.00 dollars for the HDT setup the way it now is.
Of course the interior of the Dodge is nicer but it is NOT more comfortable, the ride in the HDT is not only more comfortable its a lot quieter and less stressful as the HDT just does the job without me having to constantly be watching EGT's and taking the truck in and out of cruise control while driving in hilly terrain or climbing mountains. Just letting the Jake brake work going down a grade is so much better then the exhaust brake not to mention better fuel milage with the HDT.
So like I have said before, for "me", the HDT just makes sense it may or may not make sense for others but it is an option that should NOT be over looked if your dragging a heavy trailer.
Dave
