Looking for a reliable diesel truck

Reddog1 wrote:

allendlung wrote:
What are other good years of dodge trucks?

What should I look out for. I'm guessing I need to expand my budget, that's fine. I just want something that will last a long time.

You should make it clear if you want 2WD or 4WD.

If you do not mind smog check every two years, then a 1998 or newer is good. If you do not want smog, then you want 1997 or older.
In Texas at least, diesels are not subject to smog check regardless of year. I realize that will vary by state - the OP may want to check his state regulations.

Exhaust brakes on automatics in their stock form do not work until 2003 (I think). A torque converter upgrade is required and 60 lb exhaust valve springs are required pre-2003, as I recall. The torque converter must be able to lock up, and if so, the valves are subject to float without the 60 lb exhaust valve springs. The 60 lb valve spring change only applies to the Cummins 12V diesels used up to January 1, 1998. The Cummins 24V diesels do not require any mods to use an exhaust brake - they were set up to use the Jacobs brake from the factory, and it was a dealer-installed option. My 2002 had the Jacobs exhaust brake installed at the dealer before I took delivery, but it was a 6-speed manual. As you state, use of an exhaust brake with the 47RE automatic was "iffy" - many exhaust brake suppliers offered torque converter lockup and line pressure supplemental controls that were installed along with the exhaust brake when used with the 47RE.

The 1995 through 1997 and 1st half of 1998 do not use a computer for fuel, it is mechanical. Unlike the mid 1998 and newer do not have issues with the lift pump or injector pump.

I have had my 1996 since 2001. It is 2WD, and last time on the dyno I was at 250 hp. I get 17 to 19 MPG empty, and 12.5 to 13.5 with my 4000 lb TC. I have the mods above, and a less than year old $4,500 transmission with a triple disc converter. My 1996 is setup for 5th wheel, TC and TT. It has a U.S. Gear exhaust brake. It has been my pride and joy, with a list of modifications too long to list. I post this to suggest I am far from a stranger to the 5.9.My 2002 was an ETH/DEE (Cummins HO/NV5600 6-speed) 3500 2WD dually that was mildly "bombed" for towing with an Edge EZ, DD Stage 2 injectors, BHAF and 4" exhaust along with a South Bend CON O/FE clutch. It made 347/762 at the rear wheels and was extremely reliable. A really great towing machine, but my wife was never comfortable towing with the 6-speed manual - thus, our current truck.

OI really like my new to me 2004.5 DRW Quad cab due to its creature comforts, but in it's stock form it does not hold a candle to my 1996, power or MPG wise.