>We're getting ready to order our tow vehicle - my husband has just about
>decided on a 1999 Dodge 2500 diesel with manual transmission. Any tips on
>what we should order on it would be appreciated.

As the owner of a 99 Dodge 2500 diesel, With over 36000 on it already I think you will be well satisfied. Mine has not been back to the dealer for anything.

I have removed the back seat since I carry stuff back there as I live out of the truck for days at a time. The next time I would consider buying it with the rear doors, or whatecver they call them as it would make loading bulky coolers toolboxes etc much easier. If your hauling people back there you
probably don't need them.

The camper package consists of helper springs. These are variable rate and shouldn't affect the ride. If you are going to carry much stuff in the truck you might consider them. I had to aftermarket helwig helper springs but I move a lot of fifth wheel trailers for a transporter.

While I did my own wiring the average user probably should go ahead and get the factory hitch and wiring. As of October no one but Dodge had a hitch that would fit due to frame changes in 99. Also the turn signal flasher is an OEM item that I could not find anywhere else. You will save a lot of
hassle buying their package.

In years past the 5 speed has had a fifth gear problem, only in the diesel vehicles. This has supposedly been fixed now and the fix was in mine, as I had a chance to look when installing the Gear Vendors overdrive. There is soon to be a 6 speed manual. It is covered in my owners manual and also the service manual. It may be available now. It will close the hole between 3rd and 4th, although the 5 speed does quite well. The 3.54 rear end is more than adequate for any towing, and you will be able to tow in 5th gear most of the time. Fuel economy running empty usually runs around 20, has been as high as 23 (pre gear vendors) and towing has never dropped lower than 11 even with a 35 ft fifth wheel.

Rick Davis 1602
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