Return to site

Dodge Cummins Six Speed Manual Transmission

broken image


2nd Generation 5.9L Cummins Specs

1994-2002 Dodge Cummins Trucks

Transmissions offered with the Cummins diesel include the Chrysler-manufactured 47RH and RE automatics, as well as the Getrag G360 and New Venture 4500 and 5600 manual transmissions. Determining if the transmission is manual or automatic and, if manual, whether it is five- or six-speed, are the first steps to identifying the Ram 3500 transmission. DODGE 4-Speed Manual Transmission Trucks 4-Speed Manual Truck The np-435 is a wide ratio 4-speed. It has a granny low and so then just 3 normally usable ratios. There is not any greater example of how much difference can be made installing a Gear Vendors Under/Overdrive than these vehicles. The 28.6% faster gear will give Continue reading Dodge Truck Manual →. 53 Dodge from $10,500. Find the best deals for used dodge 2500 4x4 diesel manual transmission. Our heavy-duty 2001 dodge ram 2500 quad cab 4x4 offers serious power. Diesel 6 cylinder mated to a durable 5 speed manual transmission. This four wheel drive. 2001 dodge ram 2500 slt laramie 24 valve 5.9. See 8 results for 6 speed manual transmission Dodge cummins for sale at the best prices, with the cheapest used car starting from $ 5,800. Looking for more second hand cars? Explore Dodge. Replace the OEM clutch in your 2000.5-2005.5 Dodge Cummins 5.9L With 6-SPeed NV5600 Trans. (350 HP, 750 FT. LBS.) with the South Bend Clutch Dyna Max Organic Clutch Kits 1947-O. Constructed from performance organic friction material, the Max Organic Clutch Kit is a complete kit that is ready to improve your Cummins.Features:350 HP and 750 Ft.

1994-1998 12 Valve 5.9L Cummins Specs

Following the 1st gen Cumminsfootsteps was no small task. Dodge had immense success with the first 5.9L Cummins engine and the D250/350 trucks, and they had to keep the momentum going. As a result, they kept the 5.9L Cummins and made some adjustments to improve them. The term 2nd generation Cummins refers to Dodge diesel pickups between 1994-2002. There are two variations of the 2nd gen Cummins though. 1994-1998 trucks feature 12 valves and are very similar to the previous trucks engines. 1998.5-2002 trucks , have the 5.9L Cummins engine with 24 valves. We'll go over what make these trucks unique and a complete list of 2nd Generation 5.9 Cummins specs below.

1994-1998 12V Cummins (12 Valve) Features

The first variation of the second gen cummins features the desirable 'p-pump' fuel injection pump. New injectors, a larger intercooler, and a new turbocharger were also introduced. These additions help reduce emissions output compared to the previous generation. They also gave the 5.9L 12v engine better performance. Early 2nd Gen Cummins trucks produced greater horsepower and torque numbers than the previous model year. These horsepower and torque numbers depend on your transmission configuration though. 1994 Cummins equipped Dodge Ram trucks have 175 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque when equipped with the NV4500 5-Speed manual transmission. 1994 Cummins trucks with an automatic 47RH transmission only offered 160 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque.

5.9L 12V Performance Specs

Fuel Injection

Dodge Cummins Six Speed Manual Transmission

The early Second Generation Cummins received a new fuel injection system featuring new injectors, injection pump, and even the pistons were updated to accommodate better combustion events and lower emissions. The Bosch P7100 mechanical injection pump is without a doubt the most important component of this fuel system though. The 'P-Pump' injection pump provides better fueling and can be upgraded for even higher flow and performance. The P-Pump doesn't do it all by itself though. Injectors were added that were built to sustain the higher fuel pressures. The piston fuel-bowl design was changed to provide better swirl and improve overall combustion quality.

Early Second Gen Cummins Air Induction

A larger intercooler and a new wastegated turbocharger were added to the second generation Dodge Cummins. The initial turbocharger offered on the 1994 Dodge Cummins is a wastegated variation of turbocharger found on the 1st gen Cummins. This turbocharger is known as the Holset H1C. Late 1994-1998 2nd Gen Cummins trucks have a different turbo. They have an upgraded Holset HX35W or HX35 turbocharger. This turbocharger has proven more than capable of sustaining stock boost levels, and has been known to hold up to pressures of 40 psi.

The Engine of Choice for Diesel Racing and Sled Pulling

Today, late 12V Dodge Cummins trucks are preferred for racing and high-performance applications. Horsepower over 1,000 can be easily achieved and these motors are more than capable of handing the extra power with some small upgrades. Even as a daily driver, the 12V Cummins is an ideal choice. Even with tuning and other performance upgrades these diesels can hold up for hundreds of thousands of miles before having to complete any major repairs.

1998.5-2002 24V Cummins (24 Valves) Specs

In 1998, a revised version of the 2nd Gen Cummins was introduced. It retained the same body style, but big mechanical changes were made. The new 5.9L Cummins engine had 24 valves, or 4 valves per cylinder. The mechanical 'P-Pump formally known as the Bosch P7100 fuel injection pump was replaced with a rotary electric VP44 injection pump. This injection pump is one of the most common 2nd Generation Cummins problems. Other 2nd Gen Cummins specs were changed as well, that helped Dodge trucks stay slightly above their competitors. 1998 Dodge Ram trucks with the 24 valve 5.9L Dodge Cummins engine produce 235 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque when paired with the 5-Speed Manual transmission. Trucks from 1998 with automatic transmissions make 215 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque.

24V 5.9L Cummins Performance Specs

Engine Changes

Cummins dramatically changed the late 2nd Gen Cummins engine. By doubling the valves, overall performance improves. Drivability improves because of better throttle response. The 24V engine configuration also allows for much better coolant flow compared to the previous 12V engine. Another big change is the new '53' engine block. Despite how reliable Cummins engines typically are, blocks marked with the '53' stamp are susceptible to cracking. They feature thinner walls that overtime can develop coolant leaks. Iqra qaida pdf. For this reason, trucks built before 1999 or after 2001 are more desirable.

Fuel System

The change to an electric rotary injection pump was a big step for Cummins. The VP44 injection pump works with the ECU to control fuel injection timing and fuel flow. An electric lift pump was introduced to help keep fuel pressure constant. This lift pump is actually one of the most common reasons the VP44 pump fails. If it doesn't get the proper fuel supply it's very likely to break. Aftermarket lift pumps like an Air Dog or Fass system is highly recommended! Despite moving to an electric rotary fuel injection pump, mechanical injectors are still used on late second generation Dodge Cummins trucks. They were re-located however which makes servicing them easier, as well as improves the spray pattern for a better combustion sequence.

Air Induction

The 24 Valve 5.9L Cummins used the same turbocharger as 12V models from 1994-1998. The Holset HX35W was used on all models until 01′ and 02′. In these years, trucks with automatic transmissions used a HY35W turbocharger.

High Output 24V 5.9L Cummins

Late 2nd Gen Cummins trucks are available in a high-output configuration. The High Output 24V 5.9L Cummins comes with a 6-speed manual transmission. This is slightly different than what we've seen Ram do in current times. Manual transmissions are much less capable than Aisin automatic transmissions or even the standard 68RFE. Automatic transmissions in 2000-2002 were not nearly as good as they are now. This NV5600 6-Speed manual transmission is a much better option than early automatic transmissions, especially when it comes to adding aftermarket power.

High Output trucks produced 10 extra horsepower and 45 more lb-ft of torque from the factory. Higher horsepower and torque numbers are easily achieved however and the manual transmission makes it very affordable to support those big numbers. Check out our favorite 2nd Generation Cummins Performance upgrades post to find out what parts you need to add big horsepower and torque numbers to your truck.

2nd Generation Cummins Specs

Because both 12 valve and 24 valve variations of the Cummins engine are found on the second generation Cummins, pay special attention to the years listed. 2nd Generation Cummins specs are going to vary slightly between model year.

2nd Gen 5.9L Cummins Years:1994-2002
Engine Design:Inline 6 Cylinder
Block:Deep Skirt Cast Iron
Cylinder Head:Cast Iron
Displacement:5.9 Liters or 359 Cubic Inches
Bore:4.02″ (106.9 mm)
Stroke:4.72″ (124 mm)
Compression Ratio:Standard: 16.3:1
High Output: 17.2:1
Firing Order:1-5-3-6-2-4
Fuel Injection:Direct Injection With Bosch Fuel
injection pump.
1994-1998: Bosch P7100 'P-Pump'
1998.5+: Bosch VP44 Electric Rotary
Turbocharger:Early 1994- Holset WH1C Turbo
1994-1998: Holset HX35W Turbo
1998.5-2002 Manual: Holset HX35W
2001-2002 Automatic: Holset HY35W
2001-2002 High Output: Holset HX35W
Valvetrain:1994-1998: Overhead Valve Engine (OHV)
2 Valves per cylinder
1998.5+: Overhead Valve Engine (OHV)
4 Valves Per Cylinder; 24v total
Pistons:
Cast Aluminum
Transmissions1994-1998:
47RH 4-Speed Automatic
NV4500 5-Speed Manual
1998.5+
47RH 4-Speed Automatic
NV5600 6-speed Manual
Weight:1150 Lbs Dry
Engine Oil Capacity:12 Quarts or 11.4 Liters /w Filter
Fuel:Diesel
Governed Speed:1994-1998 12 Valve: 2,700 rpms
1998+ 24 Valve: 3,200 rpms
Horsepower (Varies by year)See Chart Below for exact numbers
1994-1998: 160-215 horsepower
1998.5+: 215-245 horsepower
Torque (Varies by year)See Chart Below for exact numbers
1994-1998: 400-440 lb-ft
1998.5+: 420-505 lb-ft

Horsepower and Torque Numbers

12V 5.9L Cummins Horsepower & Torque

YearTransHorsepowerTorque
1994-1995Auto160 horsepower400 lb-ft
1994-1995Manual175 horsepower420 lb-ft
1996-1998Auto180 horsepower420 lb-ft
1996-1998Manual215 horsepower440 lb-ft

24V 5.9L Cummins Horsepower & Torque

YearTransHorsepowerTorque
1998.5-1999Auto215 horsepower420 lb-ft
2000-2002Auto235 horsepower460 lb-ft
1998.5-2002Manual235 horsepower460 lb-ft
2001-2002
High Output Models
Manual245 horsepower505 lb-ft

2nd Generation 5.9 Cummins Towing Specs

So many improvements were made to maximum tow capacity between 1994 and 2002. The tow capacity numbers below are maximum numbers. Your truck's towing capacity will most likely be another option. Master of typing – tutor 1 2 3b. To figure out your exact tow capacity and payload information, check out your owner's manual. You can also look at the Trailer Life website.

Max 2nd Gen Cummins Tow Capacity (Based off of 2002 Numbers)

Model:Max Tow Capacity
2500
regular cab 4×2
regular cab 4×4
quad cab 4×2
quad cab 4×4
see below
14,100 lbs
13,650 lbs
13,800 lbs
13,400 lbs
3500
regular cab 4×2
regular cab 4×4
quad cab 4×2
quad cab 4×4
see below
15,150 lbs
14,700 lbs
14,700 lbs
14,300 lbs

Learn More About the 2nd Gen Cummins

Click on one of the links below to learn more about 1994-2002 Dodge Ram trucks with the 12 valve or 24 valve 5.9L Cummins engine.

  • 9 Best 2nd Generation Cummins Performance Upgrades

DISCLAIMER: This website page contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links and purchase the product, I'll receive a small commission. This helps support Diesel Resource and allows us to continue to produce helpful diesel insight and content. Thank you for the support!

So you're in the market for a used diesel pickup and it's gotta be a Cummins. We understand. Even if you're a Bow Tie or Blue Oval loyalist, the fact that Ram trucks house the legendary Cummins inline-six engine under the hood makes giving them a look virtually inescapable. That's why whether you're searching for your first vehicle, first diesel, a certain sought after model, or you're on the hunt for a slightly used workhorse with a friendly price tag, we've put together an all-inclusive Cummins-powered Ram guide for you. Look for the good, the bad, and the ugly in our Pros and Cons list, as well as what we consider to be the pinnacle year(s) to own each generation of Cummins-powered Dodge trucks.

1989-1993 D250, D350, W250, W350

Dodge cummins six speed manual transmission fluid

The early Second Generation Cummins received a new fuel injection system featuring new injectors, injection pump, and even the pistons were updated to accommodate better combustion events and lower emissions. The Bosch P7100 mechanical injection pump is without a doubt the most important component of this fuel system though. The 'P-Pump' injection pump provides better fueling and can be upgraded for even higher flow and performance. The P-Pump doesn't do it all by itself though. Injectors were added that were built to sustain the higher fuel pressures. The piston fuel-bowl design was changed to provide better swirl and improve overall combustion quality.

Early Second Gen Cummins Air Induction

A larger intercooler and a new wastegated turbocharger were added to the second generation Dodge Cummins. The initial turbocharger offered on the 1994 Dodge Cummins is a wastegated variation of turbocharger found on the 1st gen Cummins. This turbocharger is known as the Holset H1C. Late 1994-1998 2nd Gen Cummins trucks have a different turbo. They have an upgraded Holset HX35W or HX35 turbocharger. This turbocharger has proven more than capable of sustaining stock boost levels, and has been known to hold up to pressures of 40 psi.

The Engine of Choice for Diesel Racing and Sled Pulling

Today, late 12V Dodge Cummins trucks are preferred for racing and high-performance applications. Horsepower over 1,000 can be easily achieved and these motors are more than capable of handing the extra power with some small upgrades. Even as a daily driver, the 12V Cummins is an ideal choice. Even with tuning and other performance upgrades these diesels can hold up for hundreds of thousands of miles before having to complete any major repairs.

1998.5-2002 24V Cummins (24 Valves) Specs

In 1998, a revised version of the 2nd Gen Cummins was introduced. It retained the same body style, but big mechanical changes were made. The new 5.9L Cummins engine had 24 valves, or 4 valves per cylinder. The mechanical 'P-Pump formally known as the Bosch P7100 fuel injection pump was replaced with a rotary electric VP44 injection pump. This injection pump is one of the most common 2nd Generation Cummins problems. Other 2nd Gen Cummins specs were changed as well, that helped Dodge trucks stay slightly above their competitors. 1998 Dodge Ram trucks with the 24 valve 5.9L Dodge Cummins engine produce 235 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque when paired with the 5-Speed Manual transmission. Trucks from 1998 with automatic transmissions make 215 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque.

24V 5.9L Cummins Performance Specs

Engine Changes

Cummins dramatically changed the late 2nd Gen Cummins engine. By doubling the valves, overall performance improves. Drivability improves because of better throttle response. The 24V engine configuration also allows for much better coolant flow compared to the previous 12V engine. Another big change is the new '53' engine block. Despite how reliable Cummins engines typically are, blocks marked with the '53' stamp are susceptible to cracking. They feature thinner walls that overtime can develop coolant leaks. Iqra qaida pdf. For this reason, trucks built before 1999 or after 2001 are more desirable.

Fuel System

The change to an electric rotary injection pump was a big step for Cummins. The VP44 injection pump works with the ECU to control fuel injection timing and fuel flow. An electric lift pump was introduced to help keep fuel pressure constant. This lift pump is actually one of the most common reasons the VP44 pump fails. If it doesn't get the proper fuel supply it's very likely to break. Aftermarket lift pumps like an Air Dog or Fass system is highly recommended! Despite moving to an electric rotary fuel injection pump, mechanical injectors are still used on late second generation Dodge Cummins trucks. They were re-located however which makes servicing them easier, as well as improves the spray pattern for a better combustion sequence.

Air Induction

The 24 Valve 5.9L Cummins used the same turbocharger as 12V models from 1994-1998. The Holset HX35W was used on all models until 01′ and 02′. In these years, trucks with automatic transmissions used a HY35W turbocharger.

High Output 24V 5.9L Cummins

Late 2nd Gen Cummins trucks are available in a high-output configuration. The High Output 24V 5.9L Cummins comes with a 6-speed manual transmission. This is slightly different than what we've seen Ram do in current times. Manual transmissions are much less capable than Aisin automatic transmissions or even the standard 68RFE. Automatic transmissions in 2000-2002 were not nearly as good as they are now. This NV5600 6-Speed manual transmission is a much better option than early automatic transmissions, especially when it comes to adding aftermarket power.

High Output trucks produced 10 extra horsepower and 45 more lb-ft of torque from the factory. Higher horsepower and torque numbers are easily achieved however and the manual transmission makes it very affordable to support those big numbers. Check out our favorite 2nd Generation Cummins Performance upgrades post to find out what parts you need to add big horsepower and torque numbers to your truck.

2nd Generation Cummins Specs

Because both 12 valve and 24 valve variations of the Cummins engine are found on the second generation Cummins, pay special attention to the years listed. 2nd Generation Cummins specs are going to vary slightly between model year.

2nd Gen 5.9L Cummins Years:1994-2002
Engine Design:Inline 6 Cylinder
Block:Deep Skirt Cast Iron
Cylinder Head:Cast Iron
Displacement:5.9 Liters or 359 Cubic Inches
Bore:4.02″ (106.9 mm)
Stroke:4.72″ (124 mm)
Compression Ratio:Standard: 16.3:1
High Output: 17.2:1
Firing Order:1-5-3-6-2-4
Fuel Injection:Direct Injection With Bosch Fuel
injection pump.
1994-1998: Bosch P7100 'P-Pump'
1998.5+: Bosch VP44 Electric Rotary
Turbocharger:Early 1994- Holset WH1C Turbo
1994-1998: Holset HX35W Turbo
1998.5-2002 Manual: Holset HX35W
2001-2002 Automatic: Holset HY35W
2001-2002 High Output: Holset HX35W
Valvetrain:1994-1998: Overhead Valve Engine (OHV)
2 Valves per cylinder
1998.5+: Overhead Valve Engine (OHV)
4 Valves Per Cylinder; 24v total
Pistons:
Cast Aluminum
Transmissions1994-1998:
47RH 4-Speed Automatic
NV4500 5-Speed Manual
1998.5+
47RH 4-Speed Automatic
NV5600 6-speed Manual
Weight:1150 Lbs Dry
Engine Oil Capacity:12 Quarts or 11.4 Liters /w Filter
Fuel:Diesel
Governed Speed:1994-1998 12 Valve: 2,700 rpms
1998+ 24 Valve: 3,200 rpms
Horsepower (Varies by year)See Chart Below for exact numbers
1994-1998: 160-215 horsepower
1998.5+: 215-245 horsepower
Torque (Varies by year)See Chart Below for exact numbers
1994-1998: 400-440 lb-ft
1998.5+: 420-505 lb-ft

Horsepower and Torque Numbers

12V 5.9L Cummins Horsepower & Torque

YearTransHorsepowerTorque
1994-1995Auto160 horsepower400 lb-ft
1994-1995Manual175 horsepower420 lb-ft
1996-1998Auto180 horsepower420 lb-ft
1996-1998Manual215 horsepower440 lb-ft

24V 5.9L Cummins Horsepower & Torque

YearTransHorsepowerTorque
1998.5-1999Auto215 horsepower420 lb-ft
2000-2002Auto235 horsepower460 lb-ft
1998.5-2002Manual235 horsepower460 lb-ft
2001-2002
High Output Models
Manual245 horsepower505 lb-ft

2nd Generation 5.9 Cummins Towing Specs

So many improvements were made to maximum tow capacity between 1994 and 2002. The tow capacity numbers below are maximum numbers. Your truck's towing capacity will most likely be another option. Master of typing – tutor 1 2 3b. To figure out your exact tow capacity and payload information, check out your owner's manual. You can also look at the Trailer Life website.

Max 2nd Gen Cummins Tow Capacity (Based off of 2002 Numbers)

Model:Max Tow Capacity
2500
regular cab 4×2
regular cab 4×4
quad cab 4×2
quad cab 4×4
see below
14,100 lbs
13,650 lbs
13,800 lbs
13,400 lbs
3500
regular cab 4×2
regular cab 4×4
quad cab 4×2
quad cab 4×4
see below
15,150 lbs
14,700 lbs
14,700 lbs
14,300 lbs

Learn More About the 2nd Gen Cummins

Click on one of the links below to learn more about 1994-2002 Dodge Ram trucks with the 12 valve or 24 valve 5.9L Cummins engine.

  • 9 Best 2nd Generation Cummins Performance Upgrades

DISCLAIMER: This website page contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links and purchase the product, I'll receive a small commission. This helps support Diesel Resource and allows us to continue to produce helpful diesel insight and content. Thank you for the support!

So you're in the market for a used diesel pickup and it's gotta be a Cummins. We understand. Even if you're a Bow Tie or Blue Oval loyalist, the fact that Ram trucks house the legendary Cummins inline-six engine under the hood makes giving them a look virtually inescapable. That's why whether you're searching for your first vehicle, first diesel, a certain sought after model, or you're on the hunt for a slightly used workhorse with a friendly price tag, we've put together an all-inclusive Cummins-powered Ram guide for you. Look for the good, the bad, and the ugly in our Pros and Cons list, as well as what we consider to be the pinnacle year(s) to own each generation of Cummins-powered Dodge trucks.

1989-1993 D250, D350, W250, W350

While most '89-'93 Dodges (affectionately known as first-gens) have been killed off due to rust, transmission failures, and old age, you can still find clean versions out West or in the South. Keep in mind that even if you're looking for a fixer-upper, the 5.9L Cummins alone warrants at least a $500 to $1,000 price tag. These trucks are the least refined, bare-bones models offered and were based off of the '72-'93 body style that nearly went extinct. But, they're extremely simple, reliable, and can knock down some killer fuel economy.

Engine: 5.9L Cummins with Bosch VE injection pump

Transmission(s): TF727 3-speed automatic ('89-‘93), Getrag 5-speed manual ('89-‘93), A518 4-speed automatic ('91.5-‘93)

Best Year(s): 1991.5-1993 due to the factory intercooler option and available A518 4-speed automatic

Pros:

  • Simple
  • Reliable
  • Lightweight
  • Great fuel economy (20-25 mpg when driven conservatively)

Cons:

  • Prone to rust
  • Electrical problems surface as they age
  • Automatic transmission models will most likely need gone through
  • Gutless without turning up the VE injection pump
  • Interiors rattle apart

Price Range: $500 to $5,000

1994-1998 2500 & 3500

This is the truck that put Dodge back on the map in 1994. The all-new Ram body style did most of it, but the 5.9L Cummins was there to make sure it delivered. As far as performance potential goes, it doesn't get any better than the mechanical P7100 equipped versions of the 12-valve 5.9L Cummins. They're simple, rock-solid reliable, and can easily tick off a half a million miles if properly maintained. With this body style (and particularly this engine) being so highly sought after, you can expect to pay a pretty penny for these 20-year-old Rams.

Engine: 5.9L Cummins with Bosch P7100 (P-pump) injection pump Vanilla wow mac.

Transmission(s): 47RH 4-speed automatic ('94-‘95), NV4500 5-speed manual ('94-‘98), 47RE 4-speed automatic ('96-‘98)

Best Year(s): 1996-1998 with the NV4500 5-speed manual and 215hp P7100 injection pump (the most sought after P-pump offered from the factory)

Pros:

  • Mechanical injection, very simple engine
  • Bosch P7100 injection pump
  • Cummins B series industrial brawn and rock solid reliability
  • Great low-end grunt

Cons:

  • Killer Dowel Pin (only major mechanical problem, but is relatively easy to fixed)
  • Automatic transmissions fail prematurely with any added power
  • Interiors wear out
  • Rust issues (even on cleaner trucks, check the bottoms of the doors)
  • No 4-door models offered
  • Quad cab models did not have opening/suicide rear doors until early '98 models

Price Range: $2,000 to $10,000

1998.5-2002 2500 & 3500

The later second-generation Rams featured a few updates over '94-'98 versions, including opening rear doors on Quad Cab models, slight cosmetic changes, and the addition of a 24-valve 5.9L Cummins under the hood. However, the electronically controlled Bosch VP44 injection pump would prove, over time, to be a major weak link. Oftentimes, the factory lift pump fails, starving the VP44 of fuel, which ends up taking it out as well. On the cataclysmic front, '99-'02 models equipped with 53 blocks ('53' cast into the driver side of the block) are known to crack over time. Overall, while this generation Ram has a few shortcomings, they are workhorses, can pull anything, and get great mileage.

How to edit a png file on mac. Engine: 5.9L Cummins with Bosch VP44 injection pump

Transmission(s): 47RE 4-speed automatic ('98.5-‘02), NV4500 5-speed manual ('98.5-‘02), NV5600 6-speed manual ('01-'02 H.O. Masslynx software free. models)

Best Year(s): Any model year with a manual transmission but without a 53 block

Pros:

  • Injector, turbo, and programmer upgrades can get these trucks into the 450-500hp range
  • Quad cabs do have opening rear doors
  • Extreme low-end torque, great for pulling trailers
  • High output '01-'02 models got a 10hp, 45 lb-ft bump and came with a 6-speed manual

Cons:

  • VP44 is known to die every 150,000 miles or so (usually from a failed lift pump)
  • Plan to replace the VP44 pump shortly after purchasing a high-miler
  • Similar interior and rust issues as '94-'98 trucks
  • Automatic transmission fails prematurely with added power
  • 53 blocks are known to crack

Price Range: $4,000 to $14,000

2003-2007 2500 & 3500

High points abound in the '03-'07 Rams. For starters, the common-rail injection system added horsepower and torque to the 5.9L Cummins' repertoire while also making its operation much quieter. The trucks themselves are roomier, with true Crew Cab configurations finally becoming available, not to mention the spacious Mega Cab models that debuted in 2006. They also feature vastly updated interiors, a more comfortable ride, and possess improved towing manners over '94-'02 Rams. Their two primary drawbacks are injection system and transmission related. The common-rail system's components are expensive to replace and usually don't make it much past the 200,000-mile mark, so if you plan to buy a high-mile '03-'07 truck, expect to replace the injectors and CP3 pump. On the transmission side, while plug-and-play style programmers can add impressive power, automatic versions are once again not up to the task of handling it.

Engine: 5.9L Cummins with Bosch common-rail injection system

Dodge Cummins Six Speed Manual Transmission Fluid

Transmission(s): 47RE 4-speed automatic (‘03), NV5600 6-speed manual ('03-‘05), 48RE 4-speed automatic ('04-‘07), G56 6-speed manual ('05.5-‘07)

Best Year(s): 2006-2007 (these are the most sought after years, but they also have the best factory configuration options and aftermarket support)

Pros:

  • Common-rail injection is easy to make extra power with and runs quieter
  • 450-500hp is possible with a hot programmer
  • True crew cab models were finally offered, plus the roomy Mega Cab models
  • Known to be very reliable, even at higher horsepower levels
  • Ride comfort and towing manners are improved over '94-'02 models
  • The last Cummins offered which was free of emissions-control devices

Cons:

  • Injection system components are expensive to replace
  • Stuck injector or high timing programmers can melt pistons in short order
  • Automatic transmissions are a major weak link with any significant amount of added power
  • G56 6-speed manual gearbox fails at higher horsepower/torque levels

Price Range: $11,000 to $25,000

2007.5-2016 2500 & 3500

Looking at the '07.5-newer Rams, it's easy to see why they're so popular for towing, hauling, commuting, and even for family vehicles. As for powertrain, a larger, 6.7L Cummins sits under the hood and churns out more horsepower and torque in stock form than the 5.9L. Use of a variable geometry turbocharger gives these trucks great responsiveness and drivability, and an integrated exhaust brake makes them the ultimate pickup for towing (in our opinion). This generation of Ram trucks debuted the 68RFE 6-speed automatic transmission, ushering them into the modern age. The '07.5 model also brought with it several emissions-control devices (exhaust gas recirculation, diesel oxidation catalyst, and diesel particulate filter), which can become problematic at higher miles.

Dodge Ram Six Speed Manual Transmission

Engine: 6.7L Cummins with Bosch common-rail injection system

Transmission(s): 68RFE 6-speed automatic ('07.5-‘16), G56 6-speed manual ('07.5-‘16), Aisin 6-speed automatic ('13-‘16)

Best Year(s): 2011-newer due to improved ride quality (hydraulic body mounts)

Pros:

  • Bigger engine displacement yields more horsepower and torque out of the box than the 5.9L
  • 6-speed automatic transmission option
  • Variable geometry turbo with integrated exhaust brake makes them towing machines
  • Integrated brake controller
  • Towing manners are much improved over '03-'07 models, especially on '11-newer trucks

Cons:

  • Emissions equipment can fail prematurely and reduce fuel economy when compared to 5.9L predecessor
  • Head gaskets pop more frequently (due to higher cylinder pressure and more torque than the 5.9L)
  • 68RFE 6-speed automatic will not handle much more than 450-rwhp

Price Range: $13,000 to $55,000

Think a Ford Power Stroke is a better fit? Click here for the buyer's guide.

What about GM's Duramax? Click here to get the complete rundown.





broken image