Constant transmission problems. Dealer tried to rebuild, and after 3 tries at rebuilding, they ended up replacing the transmission and converter clutch.
It worked fine for a few months, then I began to have problems with the converter clutch - it kept locking and unlocking for no reason (for example: while driving on level road, no wind or passing semi's to blame for causing the unlock to occur). The problem was most noticeable in overdrive.
Also, after a long trip with the converter clutch doing it's thing, the check engine light came on as a result of a bad speed sensor in the tranny (at least that's what the computer said, and yes, the computer is supposed to light the check engine light when it detects transmission problems). Dealer changed the speed sensor but it did not cure the problem.
Then, the good old check engine light came on again, this time for a bad oxygen charge sensor. Of course, the light went out before I got to the dealer, and even though they could still detect the code, the sensor did not check bad.
Personally, I think Dodge has some serious computer / sensor problems. And you know what? The 97 Chevy Blazer I got after trading the Dodge is having some of the same converter clutch problems. On the good side, the 360 ran strong, even though it only got 12 MPG.
Stay away from automatic transmissions.
Every other aspect was very good-tight, quiet cab; excellent stereo (Infinity 6 speaker CD); very sure footed in the snow, even in 2 wheel drive.
I am now looking at a Cummins diesel version with a manual tranny (go figure). That should cure my fuel economy AND tranny complaints.
I am also the owner of a 98 Dodge Ram ext. cab. Love the truck, but have had sensor problems in the tranny as well as rear brake wheel sensor. at a replacement cost of around 180 dollars a pop, it is getting old real fast. These sensors are only worth around 40 dollars and probably cost a whole lot less to manufacture, but to get them put in at the dealer is ridiculously priced. It is too bad they cannot be overridden manually.
I own a 99 ram 1500 reg cab 4x4, I love the truck, but hate the automatic tranny. it never has worked right since the day I bought it. the dealer replaced the tranny 3 different times with certified dodge remans, and numerous sensors inside of each one until they finally got it to act right. that was about 2 or 3 months ago and yesterday it started the same problems again, sticking in first gear, slipping, shifting at the wrong times, going back and forth in between gears.I'm trading it in on a 5 speed the first chance I get. I agree with the other comments about staying away from automatics, my friend has a 04 hemi and the automatic tranny in it does not act right for my liking.02/29/04.
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