I have a Dodge 1500 4x4 Quad Cab - HEMI - 140,00o miles, automatic. I'd like to build it for Expedition/Overlanding, this will be a long term project. It is all stock right now, what modifications has anyone done & found to be reliable? Of course, would like to know will this truck be a good base to start with?
Building 2005 Dodge 1500 4X4 Quad Cab??
- Thread starter tplume
- Start date
crismateski
American Adventurist
Personally I think the Dodge is a great platform. I have had 2, and have been very happy with both, Unfortunately, they have both been 2500 so the suspension is completely different. Motor wise I don't think they really need any mods, keep the oil fresh, run stock style spark plugs, and carry spare idler pulleys.
poriggity
Explorer
Start by taking the truck out as is. Once you find some things that require upgrading, then upgrade. Nothing is more wasteful than someone who throws money at a rig that's never even been out, because they are trying to keep up with the Jones'.
Thanks for that advice.....Though, I'm not one to keep up with the Jones' - quite the opposite. I was just looking for basic improvements to keep it more reliable.
chaos616
Adventurer
Hi,
I don't even have a dodge, so i have not a clue about specifics, but I absolutely agree with the point of "use it and see what would fit you best". If you decide you need a rock crawler then great, if you just want to do light wheeling great. I wheeled stock trucks for a long time and they did just fine, although you have to realize limitations, like don't drive over the 1.5' rock etc...
Something I have always upgraded no matter the use was tires, not even size (although bigger is usually better off road), but to a better offroad or all terrain tire. Something with the appropriate tread for what your doing, and a higher ply count. I like running minimum 8 ply and i prefer 10 ply and a 3 ply sidewall. They are a bit pricier but keep you from a lot of flats and hold up well with a light air down off road. Even stock size off road tires will make a world of difference when off road over a highway tire.
And hey, they are a wear item anyway so its only a matter of a small upgrade from stock.
Cheers,
I don't even have a dodge, so i have not a clue about specifics, but I absolutely agree with the point of "use it and see what would fit you best". If you decide you need a rock crawler then great, if you just want to do light wheeling great. I wheeled stock trucks for a long time and they did just fine, although you have to realize limitations, like don't drive over the 1.5' rock etc...
Something I have always upgraded no matter the use was tires, not even size (although bigger is usually better off road), but to a better offroad or all terrain tire. Something with the appropriate tread for what your doing, and a higher ply count. I like running minimum 8 ply and i prefer 10 ply and a 3 ply sidewall. They are a bit pricier but keep you from a lot of flats and hold up well with a light air down off road. Even stock size off road tires will make a world of difference when off road over a highway tire.
And hey, they are a wear item anyway so its only a matter of a small upgrade from stock.
Cheers,