I recently bought a 99 dodge ram 4x4 extended cab fully loaded . Right now it doesn't run but I got it for $1250 so I can't really complain to much I can drop a new engine in it and still come out ahead. My question is two things one it has 170,000 on the chassis and engine thats in it now (even if I get this engine running I'm anticipating replacing the engine soon anyways) Is there any problems that I should be looking out for as far as axles or anything that might be costly to fix.

My other question is lifting it. I'm going to be taking this truck out in the woods to cut fire wood. The problem we have with our chevys even our z71 is that it bottoms out when loaded. and causes the hitch to drag as we make our way through the woods. I think lifting the truck a little will help with the problem. my thing is I want to put a little bigger tires like maybe 33's for a little more traction in the woods when it snows and what have you. but I don't know what all is involved in lifting a truck. any info would be great. I figured I'ld get a kit. I'm very handy my dad has almost 30 years of professional body experience but he's not going to help me with this one. What am I looking at getting into with this and also How much should I lift it. I want a lift but I also need it to still be practical. Any info will help.

Please help me this is my first truck and I plan on keeping it for a while.

 

I have a 97 Ram extended cab4x4. Mine has 15 inch wheels with larger off-road tires on them. The wheels and tires alone lifted my truck a good 2 inches. I frequently use my truck for Farm and Ranch work and have it loaded down pretty good. I haven't had any issues with it yet as far as bottoming out, or being too loaded. Granted, it doesn't snow too much in Texas!

I don't think I would waste the money with a lift kit unless you just "want" to lift it. Larger wheels and tires should fix you up. I would suggest a really good set of shocks too! Edelbrock makes a good shock for off road use, as well as daily driving. They are pretty expensive, but WELL worth the money!