Need dealer in Atlanta who knows Ram CTDs

[cbconway]

My 98.5 Cummins diesel is still going strong but when traveling with our TT my wife wants less noise, more comfort. So I'm looking to buy a 2013/14 2500 from a Ram dealer in or near Atlanta who actually knows about CTDs. I went to one the other day where I knew more about options and delivery issues than anyone there -- they were clueless. My buddy took his to another local dealer who cross-threaded his oil filter! Can anyone in the metro area give me a referral to a dealer who:

1. Has at least one knowledgeable diesel mechanic
2. Doesn't let idiots touch diesels
3. Has a sales force which knows something about Ram HDs

Or am I dreaming?

[cbconway]

I went to Akins and was impressed with the whole operation. My salesperson, Ron Marsh, set me up with a new 2013 CTD 2500 Laramie SB. Wow! I need to go back to school to learn how to operate the electronics on this thing. It's so quiet, smooth, and very powerful. I do (sometimes) miss the raw clatter of my '98 24-valve, but I'm also glad that I don't have to endure it for hours on the road. I feel as if I've traded in my P51 Mustang for the starship Enterprise. Just wish I could have kept them both...

[cbconway]

Akins in Winder isn't too far from me, so I think I'll mosey on up there tomorrow. The Ramtrucks.com web site has been giving me fits all day. First, it hasn't been loading at times and I get error messages. But the real issue is I can't figure out what all the options mean and what models they are available on. The way they list standard and optional equipment is so confusing. Maybe looking at in-stock models will help clarify things for me.

Thanks to those of you who recommended dealers. That's very helpful & gives me some places to start looking.

[I_am_still_wayn]

Chevyman2006 wrote:
Akins Dodge in Winder

X2

[nremtp143]

There is a really good Cummins dealer that has very good techs but it is not in Atlanta. Just a little bit NE of there though. Ed Murdock in Lavonia. Also, Akins Ford Chrysler Dodge in Winder has a really good Cummins tech.

[SolidAxleDurang]

I don't care about the dealer's knowledge when I buy something.

I care about the dealer's knowledge when I need service.

I'll buy from whomever has the best price. Even if they are idiots.

[bucky]

I'm surprised I'm posting this as my opinion of Chrysler products is pretty low, but in the case of the CTD you are talking about you may never need a tech.

[bovellois]

It would be cheaper to buy DW a Bose sound-cancelling headset and install Firestone R4 Tech hybrid suspension and cab air-suspension.

[Chevyman2006]

Akins Dodge in Winder

[bovellois]

Nothing stopping you from getting your vehicle maintained at a Cummins authorized truck shop. Even under warranty, you're free to go to an independent garage. At a Chrysler shop it's a crapshoot, they mostly know about Neons and will get junior to change the oil on your truck and rip the air conditioning compressor wiring while undoing the oil filter. Been there.

[bmanning]

Sad but true, the average enthusiast (forum lurkers like ourselves) almost always know more than the salesperson.

A lifetime ago when I sold trucks I took a lot of pride in not only knowing my product but knowing the competition, industry news, etc., but most (not all) salespeople are too lazy and/or don't see the financial benefit in product knowledge.

Typically, they are much more focused in trying to put the spin on why you should buy whatever they're selling as opposed to investing the time to find out what you really want and helping you make it happen.

[cbconway]

coolbreeze01 wrote:
Actually normal to know more than the average salesman. If you order one, double check the order sheet yourself and get a copy.
Really capable and experienced diesel mechanics typically make more money with better benefits working on OTR trucks, heavy equipment and stationary engines. Rare to find one at a car dealer. Good luck.

I suspect you are right. Bummer. Good idea about checking the order sheet.

[coolbreeze01]

Actually normal to know more than the average salesman. If you order one, double check the order sheet yourself and get a copy.
Really capable and experienced diesel mechanics typically make more money with better benefits working on OTR trucks, heavy equipment and stationary engines. Rare to find one at a car dealer. Good luck.

[goducks10]

Try this site.http://www.cumminsforum.com/forum/2013-general-discussion/