2000 — 2002
8.0L Magnum V10 (LA)
Petrol
Accelerate firmly up a steep incline to test the 47RE automatic transmission shifts, checking closely for slipping, shuddering, or hesitation between 2nd, 3rd, and overdrive lock-up. | Note: The massive torque of the 8.0L V10 easily cooks the stock 47RE/47RH transmissions, especially if used for towing. Rebuilds in NZ are expensive due to shipping costs for heavy-duty US aftermarket parts.
Drive over uneven surfaces or cat's eyes at 80-100 km/h and feel for steering wheel oscillation, 'death wobble', or excessive play/dead-zone in the center. | Note: The heavy iron block V10 accelerates wear on the 2nd Gen's notoriously weak track bar, steering box, and ball joints. Passing a NZ WoF/CoF often requires upgrading to heavy-duty steering linkages.
Perform a cold start with the hood open and listen near the front wheel arches for a loud ticking sound that gradually fades as the engine warms up. | Note: The Magnum V10 is notorious for breaking rear exhaust manifold bolts due to heat expansion. Extracting these in a tight engine bay is labor-intensive for NZ mechanics.
Gently press on the dashboard plastic near the windshield and defroster vents to check for structural integrity and brittleness. | Note: Second-generation Ram dashboards are notoriously fragile and prone to disintegrating under Southern Hemisphere UV rays. Importing a replacement dashboard from the USA incurs massive freight costs.
With the engine running, engage 4WD High and Low ranges on a soft surface to confirm that the front axle completely locks and transfers power. | Note: The 4WD models utilize a vacuum-operated Central Axle Disconnect (CAD) on the front Dana 60 axle. The vacuum lines easily become brittle or crack, preventing 4WD engagement despite the transfer case shifter being moved.
Perform engine oil and filter change (use high-quality 10W-30), grease all 11 grease nipples on the front steering/suspension, and inspect air filter element.
Service the automatic transmission (fluid flush with ATF+4, band adjustment, and new filter), change front and rear differential oils (75W-140 synthetic for heavy towing), and replace all 10 spark plugs.
Perform a complete coolant flush, inspect the water pump and bypass hose, replace the accessory drive belt/tensioner, and inspect the intake manifold plenum gasket for oil pooling.
Inspect the intake manifold plenum pan by looking down the throttle body with a flashlight to check for pooled engine oil.
Grease the front driveshaft double-cardan joint and steering knuckles at every engine oil service interval.
Check automatic transmission fluid level and condition (must be checked when hot, engine idling, and transmission in Neutral, not Park).
Inspect the radiator plastic end-tanks and the coolant bypass hose below the generator bracket for hairline cracks or leaks.
Examine rear leaf spring shackles, hangers, and the steel frame rails for structural rust, which is a common NZ WoF failure point on imported trucks.
Estimated repair costs if issues arise
Upgrading the transmission with heavy-duty clutches, a stronger input shaft, and a premium torque converter to reliably handle the V10's torque.
Replacing the factory steel belly pan on the intake manifold with an aftermarket aluminum plate to permanently fix internal vacuum leaks and oil consumption.
Replacing worn factory steering linkages with an upgraded 2008-style heavy-duty steering kit, heavy-duty track bar, and steering box stabilizer to eliminate play.
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Disclaimer: This report is generated with the assistance of AI analysis based on verified automotive data. While we strive for 100% accuracy, enthusiasts should always conduct physical inspections and consult service records. View Full Disclaimer