M4wd&Fabrications
Projects place => Projects Section => Topic started by: etk300ex on June 26, 2020, 01:03:34 PM
-
Looking for a new truck for a camping rig. Will see minimal miles, no winters, and plan to keep for several years. Needs to be dependable and easy to work on/ get parts for. I often travel on shitty dirt roads +30 miles from anything with no cell service. Not married to any brands, I'm not really a fan of the look of super-duty's but I really like OBS Fords, but whatever fits the bill. Willing to travel South but NYS quarantine issues may impede that plan. My friend Brain is currently working near Memphis and travels back and forth every couple weeks.
-3/4 or 1 ton SRW
-Gas
-4x4, manual hubs & t-case preferred
-Crew cab, would consider regular 4-door
-Flatbed preferred, minimum 8' box
-No rust
-150kish miles
-I'd like to spend $7-8k, would go up to 10 for the right unit
-
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200626/a64098441cdc5397b88c5a9fe3353f86.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
-
crew cab 8' box will be a monster. get it from Memphis or somewhere between here and there. don't even shop here. seriously.
my 2007 Ram just now is starting to look like a NY truck with rust on things in places.
-
If you want old and simple I'd go Ford. You'll very much pay at the pump though. 10-12mpg likely for anything like that, not the 16-18 that something 2010 and up would do.
highway department or milatary retiree is where most of those SRW 8' crew cabs seem to come from. base trim level double bench seat sweetness.
-
Like this, but a gas job
https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/583689088953832/
-
https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/306797567161247/
https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/719294328598038/
almost seems hard to find in non-diesel.
I drove a 7.3 IDI 5 speed for a year or so, 2005-2006 I think? When I lived with Keith. Traded it in for my first TDI Jetta. It was a king cab long bed 4x2 and I think it was a 16-18mpg truck. Wouldn't win any races. never towed or hauled with it, but it was a really nice driver.
-
https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/192763015234112/
-
Sounds like you want a straight axle so GM's out, right?
IFS lives on shitty dirt roads.
-
I've been eying this one up right here in Canandaigua. I though the price was nuts, but local buy might be worth it. https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/466480264259622/
-
Sounds like you want a straight axle so GM's out, right?
IFS lives on shitty dirt roads.
IFS is fine.
-
I called on this yesterday but I didn't noticed Rebuilt title. I can't imagine the wait in NYS right now to get it inspected.
https://www.countrytruckandcar.com/details/used-2004-dodge-ram-pickup-2500/66380445
-
I'd consider a diesel also I suppose. I just don't know anything about wrenching on one and seems like a of extra parts and weight for my needs.
-
https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/192763015234112/
That would be sweet on a van chassis if it was 5k cheaper haha
-
I've been eying this one up right here in Canandaigua. I though the price was nuts, but local buy might be worth it. https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/466480264259622/
I really like the bumpers on that a lot. Very clean.
Price isnt nuts. It's what I am seeing down here too. They arent cheap trucks.
-
The Canandaigua truck is nearly diesel-price IMO but if it's southern clean plus local that's pretty sweet
-
silly
-
Find a good running 6.0/4L80/NV4500 4wd donor & some old truck body of your choosing.
drop them off with a $5k check at M4wd fabrication shop. Come back in couple of weeks.... win?
-
Those are cool for a daily. Need another three levels of attention to be rock solid reliable AND tolerably quiet and rattle free for a family road trip machine.
Ignoring crash safety. Which for this should maybe be a consideration.
-
you talking about overpriced shit box fords or trucks i build lol
-
the resto rods rattle.
both need a lot of attention to be severe family duty reliable.
-
Early 2000s GM from AZ or southern UT
-
Here's a beauty!
https://www.ebay.com/itm/164225656655
One problem... opposite coast of USA.
-
I had a 2002 2500HD 4 door long box and liked it. It was a 8.1 which was fine but 9mpg. Big but manageable.
Other one was 2003 ext can short box 6.0.
The 6.0 eats and was my favorite. Both were 4x4 push button and I liked that.
There is no way I would go diesel again unless I’m hawgin a monster trailer.
-
There is no way I would go diesel again unless I’m hawgin a monster trailer.
Agreed. Diesel is great for towing but a 6.0 gasser is an awesome all-around unit.
-
There is no way I would go diesel again unless I’m hawgin a monster trailer.
Agreed. Diesel is great for towing but a 6.0 gasser is an awesome all-around unit.
Ehhhhhhhh. After taking my Duramax to rausch this weekend, I don't think I'd ever go back to gas. Too bad he wants rust free, my 06 6.0 is for sale.
Sent from my IN2019 using Tapatalk
-
https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/555344261844421/
-
https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/672626489960125/
-
I just got some quote to ship a car to California. Was $1300, for a ballpark reference.
-
That Ford looks like a nice truck for the money
-
Purchased a 2003 Ram, just got here from NC, 140k
-
excellent choice.
-
That is a sweet ride!
-
nice!
-
Any 3rd gen Ram issues to be aware of?
-
Blend door breaking off, typical dodge steering, exploding t-case. Not sure about factory transmission
-
check front driveshaft, lube or replace with 140$ ebay unit.
upper ball joints required like oil changes
flaky rear brake lights (some board or connection in tail light)
-
Ball joints aren’t QUITE that bad. Especially with (neat) stock size tires and factory offset on wheels.
-
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200712/b450454faf10f9874c70b29426793034.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
-
Removed the sweet pin stripes and chrome door things. Installed tow motors and radio. Fixed some other half ass PO mods.
It has what I believe are helper springs. Half leaf with a clamp. I’ll probably remove those.
Had some water drops coming out of drivers side visor clip. Need to investigate. Seals around the cab lights?
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
-
looks good!
-
Yup, cab clearance lights can leak.
Pull and RTV. Maybe put in replacement bulbs so you never have to do it again.
-
I though the window visors on here were for a different truck, but they are upside-down and on the wrong sides. ::)
-
Put 600 miles on in the Adirondack the last 4 days. Lots of rough dirt roads. The truck was great, big improvement in ride, handling and braking. I was afraid the ride was going to be harsh but its fairly smooth loaded. Next trip I'm going to pull the clamp that holds the add-a-leaf and see if it changes anything. It doesn't have the acceleration the Titan did but more torque, it doesn't need to downshift to 3rd on every hill. Blew a big hole in the muffler about 10 miles from home, always something!
I'd like to put on a flatbed and side boxes for outdoor stuff storage next year, unless a smoking deal pops up.
-
Oh the sun visors fall down every large bump. Removed after the 30th time haha.
-
Clearance lights reseal fail... Worse than before. I used sticky foam tape cut out to fit the pattern, siliconed the screw holes and screws. Can't believe it leaks. Will RTV as suggested.
-
I can believe it worked through open cell foam. Rubber probably maybe woulda worked
-
It is a rubberyish foam. It was leftover from sealing my tonneau cover. Same usage I thought...
-
Flowmaster 50 installed. Sounds good and quiet at speed. I swear it has improved acceleration, but its probably placebo effect haha.
Cab lights resealed properly. I could not find the bulbs in stock anywhere, only led replacements in super white, yuck.
-
thought they were just 194s, as long as they don't leak - that's the important part!
-
I stopped at parts plus and the zone as it was Sunday. I'm sure the better parts stores would have.
-
No leaks!
-
win!
-
Roof rack installed, canoe loaded
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200811/d1f065452da09dc97a3f2ee049acecf3.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
-
Definitely looks adventure ready
-
Careful in the drive-thrus ;D
-
Move to projects please?
Logged a few thousand this summer. I love it other than the the cruise is terrible and I miss the console shifter.
Last Thursday the exhaust broke the weld and pulled out of the catalytic converter. Nothing to clamp to on converter. Was 3 hours away, drove to the nearest town. Loudly lol. I was turned down at Monroe Muffler and Mavis as there company policy is they couldn't put it on the lift because it was unbalanced. They have drive on lifts ::). Would have been an easy weld. After an hour on the ground in a Napa parking lot I ended up mending it with a band clamp and some water hardening exhaust wrap lol. It worked well and is hard as steel now. New converter on the way.
-
let me know if you want to throw this hog on a lift some time and give her a once over. probably have some time next week or week after.
-
Oh, also took it off-roading on what I would consider a blue trail at RC. Camper, canoe, and bikes on board. Nice dirt road quickly turned in to a Jeep trail, no warning, no place to turn around. Mountain on one side creek on the other. It had fresh stone and a new culvert 250' before this. After a quarter mile of white-knuckle 4-lo, maybe I'm exaggerating but it seemed like it, I run into a stock XJ coming back that said he had to turn around. He said there's no way you'll be able to go much further. Luckily, I had my DeWalt chain saw. I found the best spot I could, which was slightly off camber, and made a turnaround on both sides of the road and did a 15 point turn. Quote of the day from Abigail spotting me trying to back up into the turn around "Ok now really crank it." Me "that's as cranked as its getting lol."
-
nice!
-
let me know if you want to throw this hog on a lift some time and give her a once over. probably have some time next week or week after.
That would be good. I need to talk to you about some winter projects on this unit. Or may like two weeknights for you haha.
-
Flowmaster cat installed. Added a hanger to the muffler. I think lack of hanger on the driver side may have been the cause of failure, there was quite a bit of torque on the cat. Well, until my awful undertruck weld fails anyways :P.
-
CB and off-road lights installed. Did not hear any chatter on channel 19 on the thruway yesterday, so that’s not a good sign...
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201109/b1ff982de5569db659aa031288d41a24.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
-
cbs are still a thing lol
not betting they are
-
You can borrow my handheld if you want to check operation.
-
the one I put in Joe is dead. Found it's matching plug n play mate to swap in, but I haven't.
-
I still have one in the dually but not sure if actually works anymore have tried listening on a few trips but never hear much.
-
Ordered a (6) bike rack after threatening to make one for the past several years haha. Planning many bike trips this year!
loloracks.com/the-rack
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
-
Never heard any cb chatter. I’ll have to check it with you, Mark, when the Ram is back on the road.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
-
Thinking a Ranch Hand bumper for preventative deer incidents. Probably some rims and 33s also. All the rims are so bad looking. I just want some steelies.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
-
Picked up some door and cab seals and sun visors at the junk yard yesterday. It will be nice to drive in the rain without our arms getting wet haha.
Pro tip- The cab seals from the 2006-2008 Ram are tapered where the corner of the door by the mirror pokes into where mine, 2003-2005, are not tapered and ripped.
Ram 3rd gen is real confusing. My chassis/engine configuration was not even available according to Wikipedia.
-
Smike weld my exhaust joints last weekend. It kept comping apart at all locations. Used band clamps too. I've never had such an issue...
-
Hangers must pull the pipes apart instead of all pulling on one direction?
-
Yeah, the tailpipe hanger is opposite.
-
cant seem to get through to Express metals
(2) 2"x4" box tube steel 11 gage (1/8") 24' sticks
(3) 2"x2" box tube steel 7 gage (3/16") 24' sticks
(2) diamond plate sheet steel 11gage (1/8") 4'x8' sheets
-
I washed this unit for the first time. I didn't know these wheels had plastic chrome cover over them, gross.
-
yup, and I guess they sometimes rot behind them.
-
I see that water sits in the outside ring
-
under camper boxes?
https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/807647786531741/
-
WOW
steel prices are NUTS
i would recommend not doing this now eric
(2) 2"x4" box tube steel 11 gage (1/8") 24' sticks 297$ each
(3) 2"x2" box tube steel 7 gage (3/16") 24' sticks 270 each
(2) diamond plate sheet steel 11gage (1/8") 4'x8' sheets 478 each
quote good for 24hrs only
crazy
-
good god
-
looks like Mark and Jeffs place out towards buffalo is better, service steel im guessing
-
as someone that knows NOTHING about steel pricing, whats the "normal" price range for these?
-
1$/ lb is normal for prime steel.
i paid 1.34/lb earlier in the year when i bought materials for 2 flatbeds
those prices are pushing $2.61/lb
-
Dang
-
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210603/4f58494f9a22ea027ea44e1f3c86109b.jpg)
Boxes acquired
-
Those are sweet!
-
Just need flatbed now haha
-
Who are some flatbed distributors? Going to see what the cost is for a built unit. Contacted Wilbri's so far.
-
Ask Erik. I forget that truck outfit they deal with.
Check marketplace. I’m sure some advertise. I think thruway spring up fits and sells beds. They definitely do plows.
-
they had two stacks of aluminum flat beds last i drove buy a few weeks ago on way to Attica
https://davistrailerworld.com/
-
also this place says they are a CM truck bed distributor down in Avoca, they will be the best and most expensive probably, but worth a call
https://wilbriinc.com/
-
Custom truck creations is the buddy of Erik's in east roch I think, there's also unicell on brighton-henritte tl Rd, and pretty sure thru way spring has them
-
id say if you can get an aluminum or steel bed installed for 4K or less your doing alright
-
I thought they used to be 3500 or so cash n carry. 4k installed would be a steal?
You did buy one more recently than… oh wait I never have haha
-
3 years or so ago when I bought my cm truck bed i paid 2450 and got the install kit and total came to 2800 something
-
thats not horible at all for a quality bed, was that local or did you have to go states away to pickup?
my Cadet bed was like 4500 installed dealer price (outsourced to a PA install place, probably included a little mark up for dealer)
-
That was picked up in Albany. There was a cm dealer in bath or somewhere around there that was even cheaper but he didn't have the bed I wanted in stock
-
This truck has had this annoying rattle since I bought it. After traveling down 50 miles of dirt road this weekend, I noticed it doesn't rattle while braking. It's the rear passenger brake caliper. Slider bolts are tight, but caliper is loose. I can't imagine how that's possible. Slider bolts are worn? I need to take it apart.
-
Sound like need sliding boots/bushings, possibly clips. A hardware kit will replace them both.
-
Not really sure what the problem was but a new caliper fixed it haha. I think one of the pistons may have been stuck or not moving the same distance as the other. Hard to determine solo, so after a little debate, I threw parts at it.
-
drove by the trailer place on way to attica, they have about 3 trailers in stock on their lot but have like 3 stacks 6 tall of aluminum flatbeds. i think the brand was BNY?
wonder if the price is why they are sitting there
-
Their stock was so low last time I went to Attica I was wondering if they’d closed.
-
probably can't keep anything on the lot.. the dealer I bought our horse trailer from in Ohio, can't keep anything in stock.. anything coming from the manufacturers has been ordered and already sold and any trade-ins sell in just a few days
-
New orders for what Erik and Cora were looking for were about a year out.
-
I've email (via "contact us for quote") 7 distributors almost two weeks ago. Not one reply. I guess I have to get on the phone. Been so F'ing busy lately.
-
Seems reasonably priced @ current steel prices
https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/2877027615899966/?ref=facebook_story_share
-
I like smooth beds like that but it'll show dings/scratches easily in no time compared to a diamondplated bed.
-
I'm on it, thanks!
-
Seems like murderously slippery, but at that price and with a camper on it a lot, grip tape is cheap!
hope it's right length & width!
-
i saw those but saw superduty, maybe frame width is close enough?
-
Martins Outdoor Geneva
Aluma 81096 -$2895. Not in stock, no idea when, probably will cost more if you order. lol, ok
Aluma 81106 -$3058. (3) in stock.
-
one of my rear calipers is doing the same as yours. driver side has like 1/4" of slop on the slide bolts.
-
Davis trailer world. (Has there own country theme song hold music ;))
Aluma 81096 -$2670. Not in stock, September with order and deposit.
Aluma 81106 -$2835. Not in stock, September with order and deposit.
I found a price list online from 2020. $2k and $2115.
-
This looks decent https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/293327029139395/?ref=saved&referral_code=null. Maybe a little taller than I wanted but price is right.
-
I asked for exact dimensions, I'm guessing OBS dodge is a bit narrower than mine.
-
800 miles thurs-sun. I’m so happy that rattle is gone. Noticed that drivers side sway bar link bushings are all shredded. It was replaced when I bought it.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210719/445a8b2e653018f6acc7481e7a934737.jpg)
-
weird. mine had a bent rear swaybar link when I bought it 110,000 miles ago. I just straightened it. the other side is real near the exhaust stream and it's still solid.
-
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210731/9627c5d2ac71abf937949ebd4feb0b37.jpg)
-
Cheap replacement or another issue? It was broken right off when I bought it, I don’t remember exactly how.
-
chance it was overtightened?
I'm also guessing by color that is poly and not rubber. poly isn't a good fit for that application IMO, asking too much deformation with that link style.
-
I have some of the replacements for that from the cheap auto zone kits if you want to try again lol
-
https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/327456555435193/
alum flat bed, looks good. listed 1 hour ago, 1600$
-
Scheduled to pick up tonight. Said I'm first in line. Fingers crossed.
-
looks minty. 🤞🏻
-
Looks like he's selling the 8.1l truck in the background too.
-
Obtained
-
Noice
-
its nice.
def score.
-
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210804/25d9c421d17fc978e2158c493c63f112.jpg)
-
sweet! looking forward to pics of it installed!
-
That’s a nice flatbed.
I probably missed it, why flatbed?
I debated to ditch the bed for flatbed or preferably a utility bed, but playing with numbers and looks like regular bed or flatbed are best if I stay SRW. Utility bed make 19.5” SRW wheels (yuck) or dually mandatory. Going dually will really open up availability on flat beds & utility beds to choose from.
-
I want to run side boxes for camp stuff storage.
-
sweet unit!
-
donzo
she gone
-
Man... I worked on the wiring all day Saturday, dusk until dawn. Long story short, I deleted half of the wiring got it all hooked up how I wanted it and no turn or brakes. I used an old 3-2 wire converter I had laying around so I figured it was shot. Went and got a new one, same results. Input fine, no output. I searched for an LED flasher to find out there isn't one for this model, its all in the computer. I went and bought some incandescent taillights lights, no change. I decided f-it, I'll just use the outermost running lights for turn signals. I was about to take my third trip to every auto parts story in Canandaigua to go get some incandescent 2.5" round lights when it dawned on me that it has factory 4 and 7-wire trailer receptacles and they work on trailers with 2-wire lights just fine... Plugged in the 4 wire pigtail and wired it up and wallah. Doesn't even hyper-flash.
Bonus, this allowed all factory wiring to remain in tact. I would like to figure out a way to mount the factory lights under the bed to get rid of the "lamp out" light but they're super bulky. Maybe they'll fit in the spare tire.
-
It was a very demoralizing day as an electrical person lol. I don't understand why the 3-2 wire converters didn't work.
-
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210830/7772e99aa02c8ec3b2e8a6932a20d77f.jpg)
-
It was a very demoralizing day as an electrical person lol. I don't understand why the 3-2 wire converters didn't work.
Because it is a Dodge.
The canbus on the Dodge trucks of this generation is a very hard system to work with. If its not perfect it will not work. Nice call on using the trailer wiring.
-
I was making sloppy electrical mistakes all day Sunday rewiring around bad sensors on the BMW top. I was equally embarrassed, shit I should have had right took me four tries. (just needed to make a basic DC motor reversing relay pack, driven directly from existing buttons. I wired it wrong three different ways, and then shorted my feed wires and had to change the fuse before connecting THOSE backwards too and having nothing work. I do not have an excuse of dealing with CAN bus BS since I was explicitly bypassing safety and limit things that have gone bad over the past 20 years)
-
Having these boxes is freakin' awesome. All my outdoor shit is in there. No more crap stuffed in the camper.
-
nice! you were headed camping tomorrow right! should be a sweet setup upgrade!
-
Thursday morning
-
Just put in some sweet mud flaps. 24x24 cut in half is perfect.
-
Mounted underneath via plastic holes. Doubt it’s going to last a rough as this thing rides…. Zip ties for when they break off
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210911/f0da0ff8fd1b12c7f3b8b6e4266fc7b7.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210911/060853ca18a5f3ddff38b63a0c30750c.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210911/c0a759ee7048c75976fc89b427e21858.jpg)
-
1200 miles WV trip
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210923/20bfb00d9a64a4769c47350345c1dc9f.jpg)
-
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210923/96661670d388beb668a95abbaf76bb94.jpg)
-
This was one of the best trips I've ever taken. It's like high peaks Adirondacks x 10. Endless outdoor activities, parks, facilities, camping.
-
I love snowshoe and I love the fact the resort is on the top of the mountain instead of the bottom like most resorts.
-
Main reason I went was to watch Downhill MTB World Cup. It was absolutely wild. 1,000+ people 3 day party.
-
It is a cool resort, We had a condo with an amazing view. It sucked having the downhill finish at the bottom of the hill though. Had to walk up. The lift line was hours long after the race lol.
-
sweet trip! how did the new storage and bling bed do?
-
Also got to see the first American ever to win a XC world cup race.
-
The storage is a game changer. Put it in park, pop the top up and done. I got compliments on it everywhere I went, people giving my thumbs up on the highways, it's funny.
-
It is a cool resort, We had a condo with an amazing view. It sucked having the downhill finish at the bottom of the hill though. Had to walk up. The lift line was hours long after the race lol.
Ahh, for a DH race... resort at the bottom is better for spectating lol
-
Some photos https://photos.app.goo.gl/fPcaJXe59wnHSYZs9
You guys may particularly like the steam engine. 12 wheel drive. It has a two steam cylinder transmission to drive shafts to differentials. The engineer said it could go up a 12% grade fully loaded with logs. It also had a steam powered water pump so it can stop at any water source and fill up, which we did on our ride. Pretty neat. It was barely puffing hauling 4 passenger cars on a flat grade. https://www.railwaywondersoftheworld.com/heisler_locomotive.html
-
oh, the railroad has a fleet of OJ body style Broncos ;D
-
I’d never heard of such a thing, that’s wild
-
Interesting observation. After 8 tanks of gas ::) I have lost an mpg with the flatbed. The camper is 2-3 inches higher than it was. Solid low 9's lol.
-
bit more windage down low where the bedsides were around the rear tires. surprised it's a full em pee gee though. I guess the extra height matters. wonder if an air dam of some sort between the cab and cab-over would help
-
I was thinking about that, mostly because it makes some extra noise now.
-
getting rid of the canoe would help too
-
Canoe is essential outdoors equipment ;D. I actually don't notice any difference with the canoe on or off.
-
Looking for onboard air options. I was a little low in West Virginia and my old trusty harbor freight unit was not up for E-rated air pressure lol. All gas stations in WV have the same air compressor where you pre-set the pressure and the max is 70. Luckily I wasn't low enough for concern but vulnerable for future.
Looking at this compressor/tank unit: https://www.quadratec.com/products/92043_611.htm
It seems all stand alone compressors rated to directly inflate tires are much more expensive than this whole unit...
-
I have a Viair 70P that I bought back in 2015 and its been fantastic. Use it all the times and fits under the rear seats with the seat folded up. A bit slow but does the job fine.
I think the current comparable version is Viair 90P. (the current 85P is weaker than my 70P)
-
Check out Puma’s 12v air compressors. About $300 and 100% duty rated. It’s what I’ll get whenever I finally have a need for one
-
Lost a hub cap yesterday from my house to Canandaigua. Just washed it and cleaned the wheels, it was definitely present and tight. Weird.
-
I may have 4 spares. didn't note condition.
-
Ordered stuff to do a tune up. What a weird setup. Two plugs per cylinder, one coil pack each cylinder that mounts directly over one plug and a wire over to the opposite cylinder. I had to go look to see what was going on lol. Ordered a driver locking mechanism too because my driver door doesn't lock with the fob, suppose to be an awful job per the internet. First time I ordered from Rockauto without shipping from three different facilities, have they fixed that finally?
-
RA has def not fixed that. You are just lucky enough that the same warehouse had your stuff. :-\
-
10 easy Plugs down. Rest are going to suck…
-
Any pro tips for cleaning the corroded electrodes inside the coil packs?
Can’t post pic >:/
-
Plugs done. I will never do that again.
-
Done and runs :)
-
New driver door latch installed. Locks with switch now. The latch is a real feat of engineering.
I’m going to go scrub all of the blood off of my arms and hands lol.
-
-
Truck runs smoother and doesn't chug-a-lug at cold startup anymore. It had Bosch iridium plugs with a 0.06 gap. They're suppose to be 0.043. Replaced with OEM Champion Copper.
It did stall on me again this weekend. It occasionally happens while coming to an abrupt stop. It had over a half tank of fuel so I'm not sure how it could be fuel related but it seems like a fuel related symptom. Any ideas?
-
sticky IAC in the throttle body not reacting fast enough and choking it out? was common on the Magnum engines in the 96-0x trucks before the HEMIs
-
This is a Magnum Hemi
No IAC listed on RA
Chilton's Manual:
IDLE AIR CONTROL MOTOR
DESCRIPTION
A separate IAC motor is not used with the 5.7L V-8 engine
5.7L V-8
The IAC motor is not serviceable on the 5.7L V-8 engine.
Does that mean it's one with the throttle body?
-
Appears so
The 5.7L Hemi does not have an idle control valve. Idle speed is regulated by the computer by opening or closing the throttle plate itself. The motor is a non serviceable part of the throttle body. The entire throttle body would need replaced if malfunctioning.
-
good ole throttle by wire.
Clean throttle body and make sure nothing is sticking?
but it's moving all the time. that certainly would cause other drivability issues if it were the cause.
Vacuum leak check? I have a smoker now.
I don't believe I have the technology to look at anything useful in detail.
-
Took apart the tail lights and mounted the modules + bulbs under the bed.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220506/98104a08862f6bf2e3df60587dd2dde8.jpg)
-
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220511/fefd9cd6c65df8ebd7fa12b34393174f.jpg)
-
the gas cap code!
(which is never a gas cap seal in things this age)
-
speaking of evap leaks..
Been fighting with "small evap leak" code P0456 on the Liberty, finally replaced the gas cap to see if that would fix it.. it stayed away for while so I decided to go ahead and make an appt for an inspection since it was almost a month overdue.. as I am going to the appt the CEL came back on, decided to go to appt anyway to hopefully get a temp sticker. shop owner gave me a fool proof way to get it to pass, and it did... he said fill the tank, clear the code, and never let it get off full for a few days of driving.. did this for 5 days and it passed inspection.
-
Since I posted this I got a PO456 (EVAP very small leak) on my Frontier ::)
-
evap purge test will only run between 25% and 75% fuel level on most cars.
clearing the codes will reset ALL your emission monitors,
depending on the year you are allowed 1 or 2 monitors to not be "ready" to pass.
all the evap leaks i have had to fix are rotten rubber boots on canisters, rotten fuel filler necks, fuel pump gaskets bah
-
any cheap reader with torque app or similar will show you monitor status
-
speaking of evap leaks..
Been fighting with "small evap leak" code P0456 on the Liberty, finally replaced the gas cap to see if that would fix it.. it stayed away for while so I decided to go ahead and make an appt for an inspection since it was almost a month overdue.. as I am going to the appt the CEL came back on, decided to go to appt anyway to hopefully get a temp sticker. shop owner gave me a fool proof way to get it to pass, and it did... he said fill the tank, clear the code, and never let it get off full for a few days of driving.. did this for 5 days and it passed inspection.
Since I posted this I got a PO456 (EVAP very small leak) on my Frontier ::)
I have that same code on Sasha's Camry and the gas cap didn't fix either...
it stays away long enough to get Pauly to scan it to pass.
at some point I think I'm just going to drop it off and have him figure it out.
-
for my reference
Stock wheels 17x7.5
Stock tires 265/70/R17...31.6x10.4
285/70R17...32.7X11.2
295/70R17...33.3X11.6
285/75/17...33.8X11.2
305/70R17...33.8X12
275/80R17...34.4X10.8
315/70R17...34.4X12.4
275/70R18...33.2X10.8
-
Painted up the back end. Going to work my way Around the frame. Rewired the flat bed to permanent status.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220618/0b7b119d71915484ce819ca4e0c2b411.jpg)
-
I bought an SWR meter and tuned both of my CBs. The unit in the TDI seemed to tune, the one in the Ram did not. I was unable to get it below 6 SWR (suppose to be as close to 1 as possible and not more than two. I cut the smallest sliver I could off of the fiberglass antennae and then I was unable to achieve the enough power to get to the Set point on the meter. No communication between the two.
I won't give up on my dream to have a working CB! I've never had one that worked haha.
-
6 is bad…
Any loops in wire? No continuity between shield and core?
-
Yes, it's coiled up several times under the dash. Is that bad? ::)
-
cut to length or do very large figure eights.
-
About to hit 160k. 15k in almost exactly 2 years. That's a lot more miles than I thought I would put on this unit. All camping or truck use miles.
I bought a new firestick with adjustable end and a short cable. Tuned pretty good. Did not hear anything on last weeks trip to Wilmington (Lake Placid) and back :(. I have another CB I'll swap. After that, I will give up on my hopes and dreams.
No stalling issues lately. Sometimes cruise shuts off and won't come back on until restart. Usually happens as soon as I get on a highway lol. Overdrive stinks in the mountains, I just shut it off now.
-
I’ve got a portable CB if you want to try it
-
can you see your brake lights? brake will shut of cruise of course.
just a thought. I can't remember if I found the cause for that on the dakota but it intermittently did the same - even though it was fully previous generation, so not likely same cruise system
-
Matts generation there is all kinds of goofyness in the tail light that makes dash lights / cruise inop / dash dings constantly.
-
Had a puncture on a freshly stoned road in the Moose River Plains last weekend. I couldn't get a plug to stay in, tried three times. Tried again yesterday and it went in no problem ::).
Spare tire leaks around the bead but will hold 40 psi indefinitely. Harbor Freight HD air compressor came in handy. Thing gets so hot you have to let it cool for 10 min before you can move it.
Cruise would shut off from time to time but would immediately come back on with the on button.
-
Spare repaired. Bit the bullet and ordered $65 used OEM center cap ::).
-
Cruise is dead :(. Ram forum says its usually the vacuum line.
Lamp out light comes on and goes off and dings every time. No lamps are out. Ram forums says this is common and eventually a lamp will go out. It may be weeks or months.
-
i think matts truck still dings every 30 seconds for past 5-6 years
-
Its not that often, thank goodness
-
three or four trips like that my truck would never ding again....
I got a standalone voltage regulator for mine to hopefully take care of the pulsing overcharge. I've read I need to put a resistor in the right place to prevent a check gauges & ding...
-
Improved election sign mud flap holders(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20221015/8a450f98a3642eab64fb0bf86692587b.jpg)
-
Hammered
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20221015/fa232af9b6704d4857414e9af9aadc8b.jpg)
-
Took apart the tail lights and mounted the modules + bulbs under the bed.
in your research, any other solution for playing nice with LED flat bed bulbs? looking like im going to do my uncles 06 cummins this year at some point.
-
I think my truck has these
6 ohm, 50 watt
in parallel on each light signal
-
I couldn't find any reliable information online when I was looking.
-
anyone know where a brother can get four OEM dodge steelies? People on ebay always list them individually and never respond if they have four. I've been looking all winter, same story.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/314533229922?fits=Year%3A2003%7CMake%3ADodge%7CModel%3ARam+2500%7CTrim%3ASLT+Crew+Cab+Pickup+4-Door%7CEngine%3A5.7L+345Cu.+In.+V8+GAS+OHV+Naturally+Aspirated&_trkparms=amclksrc%3DITM%26aid%3D1110006%26algo%3DHOMESPLICE.SIM%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20201210111314%26meid%3D4c971108460e4e5d864592e780acae11%26pid%3D101195%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D12%26sd%3D314533227231%26itm%3D314533229922%26pmt%3D1%26noa%3D0%26pg%3D3458402%26algv%3DSimplAMLv11WebTrimmedV3MskuWithLambda85KnnRecallV1V4V6ItemNrtInQueryAndCassiniVisualRankerAndBertRecall%26brand%3DDodge&_trksid=p3458402.c101195.m1851&amdata=cksum%3A3145332299224c971108460e4e5d864592e780acae11%7Cenc%3AAQAIAAABQA2rugFlOq3qu1cLac%252F%252Fk6Vp0Oa0HaJIqoXKeIiOR%252BTUgsSvHaeyPxKYu6UqHqq7GaGyKVqHQnjeiiXcQpMGw2t3aB%252BssGfjtIWOBj8wExc7oYYP7xGMyQCrHDyDaSaWjFi2ZIg6F8qlmuosEEajR7I%252BJUlzbEo%252BsJrCepCd6RUhDW%252FYW6aU%252BeCFjzMGhMPF1EIDKyr%252B7MLAmZdVUfCyjribxRV3Zh4K0d%252FpJVbxDH0alIU3veT4FkDHoJrUWbQfZU7OEETIMMqPXwIDKfRFp101iJ6v%252FFsYLJ76XAT1BwqG9quhV9dm1qvSLOf36AOpYcJHy12cksVv2R9ePPuHs2QEMvnnKUNbiO%252FMEfU%252FXeKRrDNmJdPI1p2RMBVS3BboD%252BcrnHp3d6HlH%252BiUiJcPYQZf1ZmVMlEGvK%252FiLnnY9bVd%7Campid%3APL_CLK%7Cclp%3A3458402
-
I ordered four from the same seller with the same photo. We'll see! I need tires for inspection, which was up in 4/21 :o.
-
Needed bigger navigation. Old ipad, Dual GPS receiver, Ram mount, old gas pipe.
Can't post pics, gallery comes up but its blank.
-
Ah, you have to open photos and then select back to get to your gallery.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230505/2a7ef188b63053e7e5edbce2f8614362.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230505/59cf6e9c7981f5dcb01c6f31d03b97a1.jpg)
-
Passenger floor and underside of carpet completely soaked. No obvous signs of entry.
-
Back seat too? Reseal 3rd brake light.
I went iPad mini Navi on the Utah trip, I don’t think I’ll go back.
-
NNKH did a youtube video on pulling out all the carpet and seats and identifying the leaking areas of that gen ram i believe for same issue
-
Just front passenger floor. I'll check it today to see if any got in with last nights rain.
I installed new door seals and cab lights last year.
-
I tried a few different OBD2 apps trying to get trans temp. Apparently, there isn't any factory monitoring for this gen RAM? Forums seem to overwhemingly recommend this clamp on trans line gismo https://www.genosgarage.com/product/acutemp-adapter/gauge-related.
-
Floor soaked. Wet all they way up to the firewall, so I have some direction, i guess...
-
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zUz6hBSiUJA
-
Executed the above windshield holder-upper reseal. It was dried out and there is literally a scoop right below it for hvac intake. It seems unlikely that enough rain could go through that little hole to soak the carpet but, we'll see. Then again, I couldn't believe the amount of water coming in from the cab lights.
-
Wheels arrived and are in good condition. I can’t decide, black or sliver? I’m leaning toward black, I like black with the chrome center cap look.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230513/b7107d8859b4e14eeb9bbc98ac006508.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
-
I'll be towing Rich's (Erik's buddy) camper to PA for a MTB trip tomorrow. I can't wait to see the mpgee's ;D.
-
with your truck camper too or just the truck?
-
No truck camper
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
-
Avg 6 mpg. Handled great but could use 200 more HP. Transmission doesn't seem to be operating optimally. When climbing steep it hunts for gears badly and doesn't like to stay in 3rd, which is optimal for most situations. Continuous pattern of 2900 right to 5500, then down to 3rd for about10 seconds (3500), then to forth and then right back to 2nd. Column shifter only has options for D, 2, 1 + OD lockout button. Most hills I just put it in 2nd manually and kept it between 4-4500, 50-55 mph. Trans has always shifted oddly but not really a problem with the truck camper. I'll have to look into it.
-
sounds pretty terrible.
that's an electronic throttle on a 5.7 HEMI, isn't it?
if it were a couple years older with cables, I'd say you need to adjust the TV cable for just barely less aggressive downshifting.
-
Yes. Hemi Magnum!
-
Just noticed my mud flap is melted almost in half by the exhaust :o
-
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230609/1dc314296cdced4b97bf37c9343c026c.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
-
solid work truck look. I like it
-
I like it, glad I went with black. I took the wheels to The Sandman to get blasted and coated. Got some new mud flaps on. Cut the exhaust bend off so it dumps down instead of toward the mud flap. Painted the exhaust. Got a full set of Weather Tech floor mats.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
-
Executed the above windshield holder-upper reseal. It was dried out and there is literally a scoop right below it for hvac intake. It seems unlikely that enough rain could go through that little hole to soak the carpet but, we'll see. Then again, I couldn't believe the amount of water coming in from the cab lights.
Dry as can be after yesterdays 8 hour monsoon. I can't belive this was it...
-
Steering wander is a lot more noticable with the new tires. It's always had a hard pull to the left if you slam on the brakes. It looks to me that all the slop is in the steering box, so I think I'll start there. Any recommendations replacement reman vs oem vs aftermarket?
Should I do the steering box brace while I'm there? Looking at how the box is mounted, I really have a hard time accepting that there could be any significant amount of flex there...
Just had the pump replaced. All the joints look tight.
-
what do you have the toe set at?
-
Link bushing wear can cause a pull or dive to one side on braking as worn link bushings compress at different rates.
-
Link bushing wear can cause a pull or dive to one side on braking as worn link bushings compress at different rates.
i forgot my 01 ram 2500 did this like crazy, Tom and i found it one night, lower control arm bushing at frame had like 1/2" play front to back lol
-
Pretty sure Bret's did the same too. Not sure if the newer trucks get the same thing or not, I don't think I've done links on mine, that's over 100k of my miles on a 460k truck
-
my uncles 06 2500 cummins truck folded the lower front control arms during a panic stop lol
-
what do you have the toe set at?
As purchased
-
You can turn the steering wheel about 2" side to side with no pitman arm movement.
-
Steering shaft or box or both. Mine was box.
-
I ordered the EMF intermediate shaft bushings last night.
-
My truck already has emf intermediate bushings. If anyone wants them, let me know.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
-
Replaced tensioner, idler pulleys, belt
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
-
Ticking noise went away after I replaced the tensioner and pulley, then it came back... Sounds like its coming from the power steering pump, which is brand new. Either that or the compressor, hard to tell. Doesn't change with AC on or off.
I stumbled on a youtube video on how to adjust the dodge steering box. Tightened the adjuster 4 full rotations (which I believe is quite a bit according to video) and was able to get my steering from 4" of slop to less than 2", which is spec. It's so much better! The video said to tighten it until it binds and then back it off, but I didn't go that far.
My swing out receiver hitch has failed, one of the latch hook bolt heads broke off and bent the crap out of the hook. I was going to weld it on but I couldn't come up with a way to bend it back and its cracked anyway. Bushings are shot as well.
-
This is the latch, I'll have see if I can find something more HD.
(https://cdn11.bigcommerce.com/s-y6o5zvrdo1/images/stencil/1280x1280/products/242/909/1.5-RakAttach-Passenger__84552.1680901557.jpg?c=1)
-
This looks more better
(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61XKUf1BNUL._AC_SX522_.jpg)
-
more better as long as that isn't crap pot metal garbage that's even more brittle than the original...
4 turns is a TON.
Be _very_ careful adjusting that - I went a sneeze too far once and found a tiny spot that a steering box bound up while on the road and it came as a surprise. which... isn't good.
-
Correction to above
The video said to tighten it until it binds and then back it off, but I didn't go that far.
Yes, I was quite concerned about that. I jacked the axle up and turned lock to lock multiple times at each adjustment. I did go 1/4 turn at a time. I put 400 miles on it this past weekend.
-
Does that very large adjustment mean my box is super whooped and I should replace it anyways?
-
depends how quickly it gets bad again. I had to tighten up the fancy upgraded box I put in my Ram, and it's been good since.
-
ok
-
Ever since I got new wheels and tires I've been dealing with a shake at 60-70 only with the camper on. The shop rebalanced the wheels, checked the front end, checked the drive shafts and it still does it. I installed a new stabilizer earlier today, the old one had a couple dead spots. Going to hit the thruway afterwork and see if that helped.
-
only with the camper is odd.
wonder if its weight or drag thats switching on the shake.
-
Still shakes. It only happens on the thruway when cruising steady and stright at 65. I realized I havent driven it on the thruway wihtout the camper. I suppose thats the next thing I need to do.
In other news, it drives a lot nicer with new stabilizer.
-
I upgraded my RTIC cooler to a Dometic electric fridge. While I didn’t have any battery issues it got pretty low a couple times. I decided to add another solar panel. I ordered the same one I had and it was about half the size. I decided I didn’t want to put anymore holes in the roof. So I ordered another panel and built this racking. Have room for one more panel if ever need. Also flipped the roof racks around and cut them down so they were about 6” lower.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230927/3f7cf5e0e2a0f8c6458f03e97b9e1c08.jpg)
-
Better order #3 before they change size again!
-
I am thinking about that. I seriously doubt I'll ever need it though.
-
I am thinking about that. I seriously doubt I'll ever need it though.
pretty vulnerable position... tree branch fall on it, bet ya wish you had a backup in that size.
-
That is true.
-
What do y'all like for truck shocks? Recent Rancho reviews not looking good. Bilstein?
-
Ripped all the wiring out and started fresh. Too many modifications over the years.(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20231009/430e369426b478defbe5f09af6990316.jpg)
-
Hit a deer Saturday night two minutes from my house in a 30 mph. 6 point, dropped it dead. Some come-a-longing and sledge hammering got it pretty decent. Waiting for headlights. Time for a ranch hand bumper!
-
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20231017/a051fa1aae19ed6a4d8053adf4116e29.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
-
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20231017/e8f8492e915e7eae45f60af0b843385f.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
-
Couldn’t get quite back to where it’s supposed to be but good enough
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20231017/3ee3ee56eb726121c310501ca8508467.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
-
bummer! did you get any meat out of the deal?
-
Back together. Went with black, I like it. They were dirt cheap so we’ll see how they hold up. They seem well made. Put in some "vision plus" bulbs as well.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20231019/73e2d2abb42d03680630b1614efa92ff.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
-
did it somehow just do in the lights and give bumper damage but miss the grill and cooling stack? lucky!
-
Yeah, just drivers light and bumper. Very lucky!
If you can't dodge it ram it ;) ::) :-X
-
Drivetrain fluid change last weekend. Transmission fluid and filters looked relatively new. I was hoping it was gross and a change would make it work better ;D. Other fluids were definitely ready for a changing.
Put on a giant muffler, the largest one that Dynomax max in fact. It is much quieter but still has that tinny sound. Ordered a resonator, hopefully that helps.
Second power steering pump is making a loud ticking noise like the last one. Shop is going to put in a Mopar unit.
-
I'm interested to see if the third pump change is better. I suspect these are at least slightly shoddy remans and that new Mopar will fix that.
I'll be happy to practice more exhaust welding when the resonator comes in but if it needs a bend in a better place, there's a better guy and machine for that than I!
-
I'll even let you use your porta-band if you want ;D. It should be here today. Can go in the straight pipe between cat and muffler.
-
pre-muffler, not post? I honestly don't know - I was thinking I'd seen them on the later hemi trucks back near the tail pipe
-
Newer Hemi Rams have a resonator (or a tiny muffler?) after the muffler. But any performance systems have it between the cat and muffler.
-
well then!
Something new every day...
-
my exhaust bender with swedging / shrinking is my new favorite tool.
used the auto bend feature to make two identical bends today for first time. was awesome to just push a button and have repeatability.
-
That’s amazing. I really want to have a reason to learn how that thing works sometime.
-
its a struggle for me to use a horizontal bender though after years of using my vertical bender with a digital level. but still its awesome and way faster than my air bender.
-
Newer Hemi Rams have a resonator (or a tiny muffler?) after the muffler. But any performance systems have it between the cat and muffler.
My ZR2 has that. I did a muffler delete and my truck's not so loud because of those resonators just before the exhaust tips.
-
Put the resonator on today, it sounds like a bone stock v8 now. I am shocked how much the little 12” straight through pipe changed the sound. Wish I tried it with the flowmaster that was on there before. But anyway, will be much better for long distance cruising.
-
yay!
-
I'm interested to see if the third pump change is better. I suspect these are at least slightly shoddy remans and that new Mopar will fix that.
Fixed! They put in a Mopar pump, pully and serp belt. Charged me for serp belt, wouldn't let me pay for the rest.