1998 Dodge Ram 4000

Introduction to the 1998 Dodge Ram 4000

The 1998 Dodge Ram 4000 is a heavy-duty pickup truck that was popular for its durability and towing capabilities. It was offered with a variety of engine and transmission options, including:

• 5.9L V8 Magnum Engine: 245 horsepower, 345 lb-ft of torque
• 8.0L V10 Magnum Engine: 310 horsepower, 450 lb-ft of torque

Owners generally praised the Ram 4000’s reliability and towing capabilities, but some reported issues with certain components.

Engine

5.9L V8 Magnum Engine

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing coolant or oil leaks.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

8.0L V10 Magnum Engine

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure: The timing chain tensioner can fail, causing the timing chain to skip and potentially damage the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner and related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (46RE)

• Torque Converter Failure: The torque converter can fail, causing shuddering or slipping during gear shifts.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Breakage: The rear leaf springs can break, causing the truck to sag.
  • Solution: Replace the broken leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: The alternator can fail, causing the battery to lose power.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure: The starter can fail, preventing the engine from starting.
  • Solution: Replace the starter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust: The truck can develop rust on the body, frame, and other components.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the extent of damage

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking: The dashboard can develop cracks over time.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or cover it with a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500

Summary

The 1998 Dodge Ram 4000 is a reliable and capable pickup truck, but it can experience some issues with certain components. The most severe issues include timing chain tensioner failure and torque converter failure, which can be expensive to repair. However, many of the other issues are relatively minor and can be addressed at a reasonable cost.