TowRig.com - Diesel Discussion and Tow Tech

Im in the process of selling my 00 Z71 for a CTD to pull the k5 and I was wonderin what you guys think there are 2 rigs I really have my eye on 2 CTDs ones a 97 the other a 98 http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?car_id=183108551&dealer_id=3771728&car_year=1997&search_type=both&make=DODGE&model=RAM25002WD&transmission=&distance=300&make2=&address=30458&only_price=1&advanced=y&certified=&max_mileage=&max_price=13500&min_price=1&end_year=2006&color=&start_year=1981&drive=4+wheel+drive&isp=y&engine=&body_style=TRUCKS&doors=&fuel=Diesel&lang=en&cardist=185
http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?car_id=182674056&dealer_id=788215&car_year=1998&search_type=both&make=DODGE&model=RAM25002WD&transmission=&distance=300&make2=&address=30458&only_price=1&advanced=y&certified=&max_mileage=&max_price=13500&min_price=1&end_year=2006&color=&start_year=1981&drive=4+wheel+drive&isp=y&engine=&body_style=TRUCKS&doors=&fuel=Diesel&lang=en&cardist=283
the thing is the 97 has about half the miles as the 98 but the 97 is a auto which kinda makes me nervous compared to the 98, so my question is should I be that worried about the auto or stick w/ the manual?

I'd go with the 1997. I like the alcoas and tool box, looks like a cleaner truck and it isn't white. ;) As far as the auto goes.....yes it will probably last for quite a few more miles for you but it will give out eventually. Maybe 100-150K? Hard to say because everyone is different. The '98 has a crappy clutch in it from the factory anyway, so you already have a cost there. They don't mention if the 1998 is a 12v or electronic 24v ISB. Early 98's were 12'vers and late trucks got the ISB. I'd take the 98 if it's an ISB.

Get the 97, drive it, enjoy it.. when the trans goes out (beacause all auto trans do eventually anyway) get a built one from one of the many manufacturers for 3k or so, and have a nearly bulletproof truck.
Scott

98 ISB is the worst 24valve. Most likely a 53 block, problems with injector pump, and down on power. First year of anything is not always the best choice.