early 4th gen for a Daily

[JG007]

I have always wanted a 3rd/early4th gen ram 2500.
For a little back ground,I am not new to diesels . I drove a 2000 7.3 for a long time, I then bought a 2019 Ford 6.7 and have put 100k on it. I am currently selling it.
I am looking at going backwards b/c I have had a few funny DEF issues and just dont want to deal.
I have always heard amazing things about the cummins, I really love the size of the 3rd/ early 4th gens. I have been doing a lot of research on preventive maintenance , seems like universally its front end work and the transmission.
I need the truck to do 20-25k a year through all sorts of conditions across the west 60/40 mix of pavement to off-road for work.
I do tow a couple horses a few times a month but thats about it .
I am looking for feed back from those driving late 3rd gens or early pre-def 4th gens .
Thanks

 

[AH64ID]

Pre-DEF trucks use a lot more EGR, so if you’re planning to drive emissions intact then be prepared for additional maintenance from the higher EGR flow.

Otherwise they are great trucks.

 

[JG007]

Pre-DEF trucks use a lot more EGR, so if you’re planning to drive emissions intact then be prepared for additional maintenance from the higher EGR flow.

Otherwise they are great trucks.

let me make sure I understand, in your opinion the Pre-Def trucks run better with an EGR delete?

 

[AH64ID]

let me make sure I understand, in your opinion the Pre-Def trucks run better with an EGR delete?

I think all motors run better without EGR.

I was simply pointing out that without DEF stock trucks use a lot more EGR which is much worse than DEF.

 

[JG007]

Thank you

 

[MEGA HO]

Better get a late 4th gen and delete it or get a pre-emissions truck which is a 2nd gen or very early 3rd gen.
To avoid tranny issues get a manual or spend extra on build auto.

I always liked the 2nd gen and if I find a clean 12v at a decent price, I'll grab it.

 

[JG007]

Still taking my time with this decision .My buddy just got a 2005 5.9 that came with tuned and has some exhaust work down to it. The truck tows like a beast. Geez, I could not daily that thing, it is so loud and shakes like crazy. He doesn't mind.

I just like the size of the 3rd/4th gen. I do like manners of the 6.7. I am thinking of getting an 08-09 unmolested one, deleting it, new exhaust ( keeping it quiet , not rolling coal), new randy trans., air cooler and intake rebuilding the driveline, steering box etc, I think it should be a great daily driver.

Does anybody see nay flaws with this idea?