Before I begin, let me say that I love my Ram. That being said, I have learned a LOT about buying from someone you don't know (-$9,500). First (and I already knew this), the tires were worn out (replaced (-$750) Shortly after buying the truck, I found out the block (53) was cracked (recently replaced) (-$2,000 - got a good deal). Then I noted some trany issues and after wrecking the truck it finally quit (had it rebuilt) (-$850 - another great deal). Truck stalled and wouldn't start. Found bad VP44 (replaced) (-$970 plus -$500 labor). I had starting issues and found out after replacing both batteries (-$300) that the starter was shot (replaced) (-$200). After the wreck where it was totalled by insurance company (+10,800), there was an issue with the charging system, where I found my alternator was shot (replaced yesterday) (-$180). Upon inspecting it when picking up from body shop, discovered cracked windshield (replaced) (freebee on body shop). Which brings me to today when I was driving home from Lake Havasu where I was getting the vehicle inspected by MVD to restore the title. The brand new serpentine belt shreaded (replaced) (-$104). Whew, looks like I've got a new truck. And did I mention I've only put about 4000 miles on it?

That sounds like some bad luck. Hopfully its all straightened out now.Sent from my Droid using Tapatalk

I feel your pain. I did get pretty much 200k trouble free miles however before I had to spend a lot on it other than maintenance.2 ecmsrebuilt front endone nv5600ADII165I did not include the accesories since I really did not have to have them.

Geez... :duh:Now hopefully you don't have any more problems...

But they can go 900k miles. The engine is a work horse. Sometimes i think it a wash with vp trucks.

I too have just purchased a 99 2500, I do have a question for anyone out there. What in the "53" refering to reguarding the block

http://www.stamey.info/Truck/Cummins53BlockFAQ.htm Here's some good info

HAHAH! Buddy I'm right up your alley with all that.Took a good GMC 1/2 ton and traded it in for $3k. Put $2k down and still owe $7k on my Dodge.Had to cut a deal with the car lot to get numerous things fixed on the truck before I would even give them the money for it. Then, had to get new tires, a/c service, brakes, seals, lift pump, tranny, etc. Still owe on it, and the rug can get pulled out from under me at anytime!