Dodge Trucks

Dodge Ram 1500 4x4

2011-09-23T04:16:00.001-07:00

Well, I did it. I bought a new Dodge truck this month. Why? The 2004 diesel has been paid off for years and we never did buy that "slip in" camper, which was one of the reasons we bought the 3500 diesel. And yes, I must admit I was not happy spending so much money to fill up. The price of diesel rose over the cost of gasoline the month I bought my truck for the first time in history. It never came back down!

2011 RAM 1500

Okay, so what'd I buy? A 2011 Ram 1500 4x4. It is gunmetal gray with dark gray interior and a fairly basic option package. I'm not one to spend thousands of dollars on options, especially those that are designed for looks and have no real resale value. Power windows & locks, basic radio/CD, and crew cab, not many extras.

There are a mess of changes on these vehicles since my last dodge purchase. Generally speaking, the overall look really hasn't changed much, as you probably know. The little things add up and are quite impressive. No more is the 4-wheel drive shift lever mounted on the floor, it is a convenient dial on the dashboard. If you were to ask wht I don't like about the new model it's a biggie...ready? I don't like the front seat cup holders in the middle of the dash. They don't extend far enough (as did the old ones). I find myself scraping the dash or worse, catching my cup on a protruding knob. Not a major gripe, but it is irritating.

The worst part about the downsizing from a Ram 3500 to a 1500 (in my case) is the snow tires. I bought 4 new high-end 10 ply snow tires just last winter. They are mounted on nice rims and unfortunately they obviously don't fit the new rig. So if you know anyone who needs mounted snow tires that are studded and siped, let me know.

Whoa!

2009-12-04T16:06:00.001-07:00

Isn't it interesting that we can live day after day and NOT consider such important questions? Great head jogger... thanks,

Tom

in reference to: Internet Marketing | Getting Business Clarity | Internet Marketing (view on Google Sidewiki)

Dodge Videos!

2007-12-20T12:46:00.000-07:00

Before you ask... no, I was not kidnapped, in the hospital or suffering from amnesia. But, trust me, you really don't want to know the gory details as to why this blog has laid dormant for so many months. Suffice it to say, I had some rather challenging life-altering events occur that required all of my time. The good news is that we're back on track and buckled-in for the duration.
(I'll be back! - thanks Arnie)

Big News!

Before I made another posting, I wanted to finish a project that has been in the works for a while. I just uploaded a HUGE library of Dodge truck videos. This is really a cool new feature on our website. Sure you can search a gazillion video sites and search for Dodge videos, but we've taken all the work out of it for you. They are accessible from any page on the website, but the direct link to Nothing but Dodge Truck Videos is here!

Interesting News...

During my recent hiatus, I stumbled upon a really interesting product. Did you know that you can convert your car or truck to a water-burning car? No, this is not part of the expensive hydrogen hype, this is a real product called "Hydrogen-On-Demand" - you produce Hydrogen when you need it. No storage tanks! Perfectly safe for you and your passengers. It's one of the most PRACTICAL free-energy devices, marked by extraordinary simplicity and effectiveness.

If you're like me, your nose is turned up, eyebrows skewed and disbelief is written all over your face. That was my reaction. Before you push this aside, go read what the inventor has to say. It makes a lot of sense and is VERY interesting. You will have a hard time NOT believing this when you read this FAQ page about using a water-to-energy converter.

Happy Father's Day

2007-06-17T12:19:00.000-07:00

To all you Dodge-driving fathers.... and even those of you who aren't lucky enough to own a Dodge truck, I would like to wish you a special and happy Father's Day (because we earned it)!

In the event you just stumbled out of a cave an just realized that today is Father's Day and you didn't buy your father a present… relax - take a deep breath and do the following...

Call him and tell him his gift was back-ordered, but he should receive it soon! Then, click over to Duluth Trading Co and buy him something he really wants. This is the company that is famous for their Tee-shirts that solve "plumber's butt" and their bucket tool caddies like this one pictured here.

Whatever you do - "don't tell him you forgot". Blame it on your busy life and the store, but do give him a call and tell him he's special.

Happy Father's Day!

Slow Drivers - Move Over!

2007-06-11T10:38:00.000-07:00

Now here's an interssting "movement" being circulated around the net... It doesn't matter if you drive a Dodge truck or a Mini... we've all had this experience :-)

Grassroots campaign prods slowpokes out of left lanes - Enough with slow drivers in the left lane!

“As traffic gets increasingly congested, it’s time for citizens to reclaim the left lane,” says J.A. Tosti, spokesman for Left Lane Drivers of America, a grassroots effort to get slower traffic to move right. “More and more these days, you find slow drivers in the left lane, causing no end of headache and frustration to those of us who have places to go and people to see. Some of these offenders are timid and tentative, some are completely oblivious to what’s going on around them, and some are self-appointed ‘hall monitors’ regulating what they alone have determined to be proper driving speeds. Whatever be the case, it’s time for us to trumpet the message, ‘If you’re not a Left Lane Driver, get out of the left lane!’”

In order to actually help slower drivers move right, Left Lane Drivers of America offers copyrighted windshield decals which boldly and prominently display their unified sentiment in the offending driver’s rearview mirror. The decal, which reads “MOVE OVER” also has a large arrow showing them where to go. The words and arrow display backwards on the windshield so that they read properly when seen in the mirror (go to www.leftlanedrivers.org to see picture). According to Tosti, “Although the message minces no words, the idea here is not to be rude or pushy but to offer slow drivers a gentle prod, reminding them of the need to either pick up the pace or make room for those who choose to drive a bit faster.”

In fact, slow drivers do need to move over. In many states, the left lane is supposed to be the passing lane and slower drivers can be cited for obstructing traffic. Those who stake out permanent positions for themselves in the left lane tend to provoke those wanting to drive faster, often giving them no other choice but the dangerous strategy of passing on the right in order to get ahead. Slow drivers can easily become slow moving safety hazards.

Bottom Line: Moving over is a matter of courtesy. It is a matter of safety. It is a matter of doing one's part to help traffic flow smoothly. And it is the law in many states: “Stay to the right except to pass”. Left Lane Drivers of America is doing something positive to help improve traffic flow on today’s overcrowded, pressure-packed freeways. Their “Move Over” message has the potential of helping reduce instances of road rage, hazardous driving and untimely, often deadly accidents. Read more: http://www.leftlanedrivers.org

Happy Memorial Day

2007-05-28T11:07:00.000-07:00

Today it matters not if you drive a Dodge truck or a bicycle. Today is a time for to give thanks for the brave men and women who gave their lives in the cause of freedom. They died so that you and I could live our American Dream.

Enjoy your holiday with friends and family, but remember to take a few moments to remember those who cannot be with us because they made the supreme sacrifice... for us.

Salute America's heroes on this special day!

Dodge Differential Question

2007-04-09T05:05:00.000-07:00

A reader named Jerry asked a question that I am not qualified to answer, so I'm posing his question to you. Jerry wrote...

What is the diff in mileage in a 2004 1/2 3500 (5.9 L HO Cummings) w a 411 rear end vs a 373? An "Edge" 5 position chip is installed.

It seems that Jerry is looking at purchasing one of these Dodge trucks and is looking for some guidance. If you have an opinion, please add your comment below. Thanks to all!

Diesel fuel alternatives...

2007-02-27T06:59:00.000-07:00

Diesel fuel - 46¢ per gallon! A company named DSE claims to have developed a method for manufacturing an inexpensive, fuel that will power ANY diesel engine at a cost of only 46¢ per gallon and requires NO engine conversion (according to their website).

I am aware that there are companies that manufacture conversion kits using vegetable oil that turns it into diesel fuel. Actually, the first diesel engine was developed to do that very thing. This "new" (to me) process sounds too good to be true and I was wondering if anyone has heard of it, or better still, has anyone tried this product?

This company originated in Europe where fuel prices have always been much higher than in the USA, and apparently they are just now making noise in this country. I've added more info on my website, Dodge Truck, so check it out and let us know what you think. Thanks.

Where's Dodge?

2007-02-05T13:52:00.000-07:00

Like those children's stories, "Where's Waldo, you may be wondering where's Dodge - or more appropriately, where am I located? My family makes our home in NW Montana, possibly the most beautiful area of the country (IMHO). To the East, we have Glacier National Park and to the South we have Flathead Lake, and surrounding us we have the Salish and Swan mountain ranges. The peaks will still be covered with snow in June and that sounds pretty good about now - mid way through the winter.

We are newcomers to this area, having only lived here for four years now, but it felt like home the day we arrived and we can't imagine living anywhere else. This is the best kept secret in America, so please . . . don't tell anyone. Wildlife abounds, we've seen everything from a grizzly bear and black bears to big horn sheep in the wild, and bald eagles are almost a daily sighting. We even had a black bear pay us a visit in our front yard and the frequent our trash bins (so that I had to build an electric fence to keep the bears away)... but I digress.

That's it for this post, we have a beautiful Montana day ahead of us and my bride and I are driving the Dodge up to Whitefish for dinner and possibly an adult beverage at the Bull Dog saloon.

Not just Dodge drivers...

2007-01-26T11:57:00.000-07:00

Laughing at ourselves

Taking a short break today from the subject of Dodge trucks and switching gears to the discussion of "drivers". A friend of mine sent me an email with pictures of dozens of "Redneck inventions". A few were automobile related and quite funny, so I thought I would share with you. We have to admit that there is a thin line between what we affectionately call "Redneck" and plain old American ingenuity. I'll let you be the judge... We've all had it happen, the mirror breaks and we either improvise or drive blind.

And then there is the call of nature that just can't be ignored. Pull over (preferably in a secluded spot off the highway), slide this apparatus into the receiver of your tow bar and... grab a newspaper! I don't know about you, but I'm not sure what happens after you're done using this "rear end" accessory. Does one drive off and hope for rain? You figure it out and let me know.

Then there is the case of the redneck who wins the lottery. Hey, this is a real picture, someone actually built this "travel all".

And just in case you don't know what to do with that old blown engine...

We Americans are a creative bunch. Enjoy the weekend and if you have a good redneck invention... send it along :-)

Dodge Exceeding Expectations

2007-01-14T06:14:00.000-07:00

As you probably know, this blog was moved from another hosting company and unfortunately Blogger does not have a way to import - so I am moving posts as time permits. (This original posting was begun 2006-09-07)

We have blasted some dealers on this blog (Dodge & others) in recent posts, and most of it is greatly deserved. In fairness, we should give credit when it is deserved. Just today I had the most pleasant experience with a local Dodge dealer, Kari Dodge, that deserves recognition. Today I had my oil changed.

Some background first... I bought my Dodge 3500 diesel two years ago and the only after-market option I added at time of sale was an $1100 grill guard. This was a SERIOUS grill guard made from 2" tubing and can withstand an impact from an elephant at 70 mph. It looked great. However after the first winter, the paint began falling off. After 2 years, this guard looked like it had been in the weather for twenty years.

Today, as I was waiting for my truck to get the oil changed, I decided to talk to the "Accessories Manager" and let him know how dissatisfied I was with the grill guard. This is one of those things I'd been meaning to do for the past year, but today I took action. I explained my problem to Casey, the Accessories Manager, and he agreed with me and offered to call the manufacturer and see what they were willing to do to make this right. Hey, when you buy a $40,000 truck and add a $1100 option... you expect things to last at least as least as long as the note.

Casey got off the phone and told me that the manufacturer was willing to replace the grill guard with his newest model, which was powercoated vs. the painted finish of my model. I would have to pay for the labor to remove and install the new grill guard, but the new product and shipping would be handled by the manufacturer.

IMHO, this was an excellent example of a dealer who was willing to go the extra mile and do the right thing for his customer. I drive a late model vehicle and will not be in the market for a new one for quite some time, so there was no immediate incentive for Kari Dodge to go to bat for me. But they did and I am an appreciate customer. So to all you readers located in NW United States, when you're in the market for a new Dodge, I'd recommend you call Kari Dodge and see if they can talk your language. They did good by me... and they don't know I write this blog :-)

2006-09-26
A reader asked me if I got the new grill guard installed yet...

Funny you should ask... the Dealer told me they'd order it and would be available for install the following week. Two weeks later, I hadn't heard anything so I called them. After speaking to the service manager, then the parts manager, then back to the service manager... they found the grill guard, which had arrived a week ago, but no one seemed to know what it was for :-)

I have an appointment to get the new guard installed this Thursday. There's a picture of my old grill guard here, but that doesn't really show the detail of rust and peeling paint. When the new one is installed (with the powdercoat), I'll post it on the blog.

To be continued...

2006-09-28
Two days ago when I said "To be continued…", I was hoping to show you a picture of my new grill guard today. As planned, I showed up at the dealership at 7:30 AM (ugh), and dropped off my truck. I was told it would take about an hour and one half to swap out the old guard and mount the new one. I decided to wait, eat breakfast at a local restaurant and catch up on some reading.About the time it was to be done, the service manager appeared in the waiting area and I knew I didn't like the look on his face. "We have a problem", he said. He went on to tell me that they pulled the old guard off the truck and were installing the new one when they noticed that there was not a mounting bracket welded to the guard on the right side. He took the time to show me this SNAFU from the manufacturer. It was an obvious mistake that escaped the grill guard manufacturer's quality control.

The service manager was probably more upset than I was. It was NOT their fault, but regardless, it was still an inconvenience for me and for the dealer. While I waited, they called the manufacturer, explained the problem and arranged for another grill guard to be shipped immediately. I now have a new appointment next week to get my grill guard installed.

As I mentioned, this was not the dealer's mistake, but Kari Dodge is doing everything necessary to correct it. As a dealer, they are still exceeding my expectations. Heck, they even remounted the old guard, which had they asked, I would have told them to leave it off. Let's hope that if I do a follow-up post to this thread it will be to show you my new grille guard. To be continued...?

2006-10-07

Last week I told you about the SNAFU with the replacement grill guard that was missing the welded mounting brackets on one side. The Dealer had to remount the old guard on my truck and get the manufacturer to send a replacement grille guard. We made an appointment for the following Friday (today) to mount the new guard. (The Dealer wanted to make it sooner, but I couldn’t cooperate as my bride and I traveled to Missoula to catch the Rolling Stones in concert. Talk about a great show…. But that’s another story for another day).

I showed up at the appointed time this morning. The Service Manager grinned and promised to have me out in record time. Once again, I went to a nearby restaurant and had the kind of breakfast you only eat when you’re out. I killed some time reading the paper and walked back to the Dealer. His promise was good in that the new grille was on the truck and looked magnificent (see the pic).

We began this “series” of posts with the title, “Dodge Exceeds Expectations”. In actuality, it wasn’t Dodge Corporation that was making this situation right, it was my local Dealer, Kari Dodge. Not only did they replace the grille guard at no charge, but they also absorbed the labor. The Service Manager handed me my keys and told me to “get outta here”. I asked if there was anything else, but he apologized for the problem the previous week and told me there was “no charge” for the removal/install.

We’re all consumers. It is easy (and possibly a sport) to bash manufacturers of all products, and car dealers in particular. I doubt you could find many posts on the Net lauding the praises of car dealers, but I find myself in the position of needing to publicly state that Kari Dodge went above and beyond in servicing THIS customer. From the Accessory Manager who made the call to the manufacturer to explain my problem, to the Service Manager who took such great care of me – this Dealer deserves recognition for outstanding customer care.

PS: The manufacturer also deserves a kudo as they recognized a defect in their product (paint vs. powdercoating) and were willing to exchange the old for a new – for an old customer. The manufacturer of “The Rancher” grill guard is Go Industries.

Recall - don't do this one

2006-12-24T06:22:00.000-07:00

Recall for '03-'05 Heavy Duty Trucks

As the owner of a 2004 Ram 3500, I received a "recall notice" recently from Daimler Chrysler. This safety recall is for an "out-Of-Park" alarm system. I am usually very good about following such notices and like a good customer, I called a local dealer to schedule an appointment to get this taken care of.

Luckily, I talked to the service person about what exactly this entailed. Most of us hate the beeping we hear when a seat belt isn't fastened. It seems that this "alarm" brings a new dimension to idiot beeping - as this would blink the lights and toot the horn. AND, once modified, the alarm cannot be disconnected.

I decided to ignore this recall and elected not to get the modification installed. I figure that if I'm dumb enough to leave the truck in gear and exit the cab, I'll get what stupid deserves. I don't need the horn blasting to remind me of how dumb I might be.

Comments:

Bob said...

I’ll tell.. Took 04 2500 in to be serviced and they put the recall in. You are correct about recall being stupid. They just told me it was a safety recall, so I had them put it in. I also told them I had never had trouble with leaving truck in park.

Now I do. They adjust the transmission levers and add a horn honk in besides. When I jump out of the truck, while hitting the emergency brake and putting it into park at the same time, the horn honks.

I go to work at about 4AM. Neighbors don’t appreciate it when I forget something and “run back in to get it.”

Show up at work and have to open gate. Same thing. Horn honks.

Come home about 9. Night worker neighbor… Horn honks.

Good thing I’m not a theif. everytime I get out of my truck the horn honks.
Never had trouble with getting out of a vehicle before, now trouble is just beginning. Neighbors and people around work look at me with murder in their eyes.

The horn honks when I’m not even rushing. I get a lot of distainfull stares from people at truck stops.

If your truck is ok and you’ve never had a problem with getting your truck into park, Tell them that the modification isn’t necessary.
Dec 24, 11:44 AM

Gary said...
Does ANYBODY have any ideas on reversing or bypassing the most annoying idea that somebody at Dodge has had?
Dec 20, 5:44 AM

Merry Christmas Dodge Truckers

2006-12-18T10:17:00.000-07:00

Unless a Dodge Truck is on your Christmas list, this probably will not be an important topic over the holiday. What is important is that we get an opportunity to spend time with our family and remember what Christmas is really about.

I plan to take some time off and enjoy this special time of year with my special family. Consequently, I may not publish another post until after the holiday. But before I sign off, I wanted to thank you for sharing your time with me this past year and following my blog. This has been fun and I have enjoyed meeting many of you 'virtually'. It is my fondest hope that you and your family will have the greatest Christmas ever...

Merry Christmas

to all my Dodge Truck friends!

Dodge Race Fans

2006-12-14T21:56:00.000-07:00

Just because we drive trucks, doesn't mean we don't appreciate that "need for speed" and good old American NASCAR racing. If you're a fan, you know the name of Kasey Kahne, he's one of the young hot shots in that genre. Well, Dodge wants to know if you're qualified to join Kasey's team. They're promoting a free contest to get a chance to spend a weekend as Kasey Kahne's personal assistant!

Three finalists will fly to Las Vegas where they'll attend a race and be interviewed to see if they've got the right stuff to work with Kasey's crew. One Grand Prize Winner will go on to Darlington, SC, for five days and hang out with Kasey and his crew as they prepare for The Dodge Charger 400 at Darlington Raceway on May 12, 2007. You have to enter by December 16, 2006. Click on over to to www.KaseyKahneDreamJob.com and enter for a chance to win. The good news is that you don't have to buy anything.

Diesel or gas? You?

2006-12-03T08:18:00.000-07:00

A friend who is "in the market" for a new truck (actually he's been in the market for quite some time), anyway - he asked me what I thought about my diesel as opposed to the gas powered trucks of my past. After owning three Dodge trucks powered by gas, I opted to buy a diesel this last go-round. For the benefit of those of you who are new to this blog, my current truck is a 2004 Dodge Ram Dodge Ram 3500 4x4 diesel - red, of course!

You can blame me for the increase in fuel costs, because two weeks after my purchase, the price of diesel fuel rose above the cost of regular gas for the first time in 50 years and has been there ever since... sorry, my fault.

As I'm fond of pointing out, you don't buy a full-sized truck with the idea of getting great gas mileage, so I'll avoid that part of the discussion. As it relates to pure "diesel vs. gas" truck - hands down, diesel wins. Today's diesels don't knock like the old ones, they don't smell and they're damn hard to kill. And buddy, if you have a load to carry or something to haul, there is nothing like the haulage you get with a diesel. When I'm towing a trailer, the only time I know there's a load behind me is when I'm slowing down to stop. The truck's brakes work harder to resist the physics of motion, but during the trip you forget there's a load in the back. Even during acceleration, the diesel just doesn't complain and rarely pushes the tach needle past cruising RPM.

I LOVE my diesel. I don't think I would consider buying another truck without one. I've had big V-8's, but no HEMI's so I can't compare that powerplant, but IMHO, there's nothing like my diesel Dodge. Nothing!

Comments

PS: As followers of this blog know, we moved from another blog host and unfortunately Blogger can't import such data. As a result, this is a post from our previous blog.

Debbie H Says: August 4th, 2006 at 8:45 pm
I have some comments on diesel vs. gas. First off we’ve never owned a “new” truck. We’ve had 3/4 ton ford with a 460 and 4 chevy 1ton dually crew cabs with 454’s. A few years ago I went on a week long trip with my daughter and 2 horses. We were pulling a 20’stock trailer loaded not only with our stuff but everything we would need to feed our horses and any left over room was filled with our friends hay. As we followed these friends (they were driving a 99 Dodge 3/4 ton 4×4 with diesel, we were driving 87 1 ton dually crew cab with new 454). The dodge never walked away from our 454, and going uphill I actually had to use my brake. However, I filled both of my tanks 2 times on the way there, and once on the way back. On the other hand, they only used 24 gallons of fuel. The diesel may not have “more power” than a gas engine, but it will go past more fuel stations for 1,000’s more miles. We then purchased a F250 with a powerstroke. I was worried about availability of diesel on the road, working on them, etc. Needless to say, we loved the diesel, and now have the F250 for sale (it was our inexpensive “test truck”) We have since gone out on a limb and got an 04 Dodge 3/4 ton 4×4 crew cab, and we absolutely love it.

dodge Says:
Debbie:
Congrats on your ‘04, that’s also the beast I drive - and like you… I love it. Best vehicle I’ve ever owned and the power behind the diesel is that it doesn’t “sweat”. It may not be able to beat the 454 in speed, but you can tow the Queen Mary up a mountain and never see the tach move. Thanks!

2007 Ram Trucks

2006-11-27T05:29:00.000-07:00

I saw this story about the 2007 model changes - Dodge, Ford, Chevrolet and GMC plan to offer new or revamped diesel engines for their heavy-duty pickups in 2007.

Dodge trucks will go on sale in January as 2007 models, while Ford's Super Duty is set to debut in the first quarter as a 2008 model (what's with that?). Dodge will have the biggest engine but the fewest cylinders. The inline six-cylinder Cummins turbodiesel, optional in the Dodge 2500 and 3500, grows from 5.9 liters to 6.7 liters. The increased engine size brings more power. Horsepower is rated at 350; torque is 650 pounds-feet. That's up from 325 hp and 610 pounds-feet of torque in 2006 models. Read the whole story here...

So what's your opinion, do you plan to buy a new truck in '07 or are you apprehensive about the economy and fuel prices?

Happy Thanksgiving

2006-11-22T19:54:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite holidays. Everything about Thanksgiving is a great big 'feel-good'. From the parades on TV in the morning, the football games, and the traditional Thanksgiving dinner - to the friends and family that roam through the house (or our hearts). This day is always extra special to me. It has never been just another holiday to me... its just a wonderful day to be alive!

I'm a Vietnam veteran, so all veteran holidays are special to me. I'm a Christian so holidays like Christmas and Easter are particularly significant, but Thanksgiving is unique unto itself. In keeping with the definition of the word, it just makes me feel thankful for all that is part of my life. Thanksgiving doesn't have the chaos that so often accompanies Christmas or the 4th. of July, and it isn't as solemn like Easter.

Thanksgiving reminds me of the things and people for which I am truly thankful - and that is like a mind tune-up. It puts my perspective back to where it needs to be. I forget about the small stuff that seems so important on most days.

I hope that you and your family enjoy a wonderful and warm Thanksgiving. If your holiday is anything like mine, I am in the company of a happy, contented person. Happy Thanksgiving, friends.

Side Trip - Get your map!

2006-11-18T16:11:00.000-07:00

Okay, this is a place to talk about trucks - Dodge trucks specifically. It may not be too much of a stretch to say that since we haul things in our trucks, we can sometimes talk about that cargo. One of those things we haul in our trucks are our kids.

If you are a parent of one or more teenagers, you need to listen up. I stumbled upon some information about teenagers and one of their most important celebrations - prom night. Did you know that prom night is one of the deadliest nights in a teenager's life? The Feds predict that around 50 teenagers will be killed ever year on prom night. That, my friends is an American tragedy.

Fortunately, there is one (yes, I know there's more) woman who is trying to do something about this. She wrote a book called the After Prom Party Guide for parents, schools and parent-teacher organizations explaining how to throw a party for the students that they will want to attend. Her book covers every aspect of such a party from the planning phase, fundraising, liability issues to the main event.

This is really something you should take the time to investigate. She has two websites; one where you can learn about her book, http://www.after-prom.org/ and the other is a place to help her spread the word. Her idea is to spread a Life Saving Virus to let people know how they can stop this American epidemic of teenage alcohol related tragedies.

Take a side trip and visit these websites, even if you don't have a teenager - I'll bet you know one. Go to Life Saving Virus and then see the After Prom Party Planning Guide. Hey, wouldn't it be great if we could save even one?

Dodge Trivia

2006-11-08T08:34:00.000-07:00

There are probably thousands of Dodge related websites out there, but one of the most interesting is Wikipedia (IMHO). Wiki lists Dodge history beginning with the Dodge brothers and all the way to to Daimler-Chrysler. You'll also find information about concept cars, military vehicles, and every Dodge vehicle ever produced. They present a time line showing when different vehicles appeared. If you want to know almost anything about Dodge trucks or any other Dodge vehicle, I'd start with Wikipedia!

Also, did you know...

Why a big horn sheep (RAM) is the symbol of the Dodge truck? A ram sat proudly upon the hood of Dodge cars and trucks from 1932 until to 1954, and that Ram still symbolizes Dodge trucks today. I didn't know why until I stumbled upon an account that appeared in Southwest Art magazine. After weeks of working on all models of mythology creatures and various powerful animals, the designer, Avard T. Fairbanks, called Mr. Chrysler in to see three models of a Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep.

He proposed the charging Ram. When asked, "why a ram?" Fairbanks responded, "It is sure-footed; it's the King of the Trail; it won't be challenged by anything. And if you were on the trail and saw that ram charging down on you, what would you think? DODGE!" Walter Chrysler excitedly made the decision to use the Ram on the Dodge. Interesting stuff, no?

Road Rage

2006-10-31T04:55:00.000-07:00

It is now official!

You knew it was coming… Medical researchers now claim that "Road Rage" has been designated as a new disease, and they even have a name for this horrible affliction, "Intermittent Explosive Disorder" (IED). These researchers proclaim that IED is a psychiatric condition far more prevalent than anyone previously imagined. Doctors in the U.S. believe that 16 million Americans are affected by this newly discovered disorder.

Well heck, I always thought I was just angry when someone made a left hand turn from the right lane, and all this time I've been suffering from a disease - IED. Thank God I can blame it on something outside of my control. I feel better already!

I'm apologize, this blog is supposed to be about Dodge trucks, but I couldn't resist the urge to comment on this related piece of automotive news. The human condition continues to deteriorate, it seems. Now we can blame the poor driving habits of others on the cause of our road rage, which will also lead us to tantrums and violent or destructive acts and even domestic abuse. Man, it's great to have an excuse. Now I can beat my wife and blame it on the jerk who didn't use a turn signal this morning. Whew!

My advice to all these IED sufferers is to buy a BIG Dodge 4x4 truck and mount the biggest grille guard you can find on the front. The next time IED overtakes you, you'll have the right equipment to carry out your rage by ramming that SOB and pushing him into oncoming traffic. That'll may any IED sufferer feel much better, and it probably won't do any damage to your truck.

Is it just me? Am I turning into a cynic in my old age? Who really believes we need to make human emotions a disease? Oops, I forgot - follow the money. Soon we'll be able to get a pill to control our road rage. Living better through chemistry is after all, what it's all about.

PS: Think you're a safe driver? Take the test here!

Interesting Reminder

2006-10-30T11:32:00.000-07:00

Don't lose that Dodge!

Maybe you don't live in Texas (I used to), but the Texas Department of Public Safety shows GM, Ford and Dodge trucks respectively, are the top three most-stolen vehicles in Texas. I'm sure this is one time where Dodge is happy to be trailing in 3rd. place.

After these trucks, the Honda Accord and Civic have the honors of being in 4th and 5th. place. In fact, this is mind-boggling... 93,471 vehicles were stolen in Texas during 2005 alone - that's more than $780 million of vehicles that just disappeared. Texas is #2 in the nation in auto theft offenses.

The reason for this reminder is that vehicle theft often heats up during the holidays. Besides acquiring new projects for the local chop shop, thieves are also looking for all the goodies you are buying. So, stay aware and keep it looked-up and in the light!

PS: Fear for my trucks wasn't the reason I left Texas, I just got tired of the oppressive heat and more oppressive mountains of concrete. But that's a story for another day...

Dodge eBay Bargains

2006-10-28T13:23:00.000-07:00

At this very moment, I'm following a Dodge pickup for sale on eBay. I'm shopping for a used truck for my bride (who incidentally also loves Dodge models). The auction I am watching is for a Ram 1500 Quad cab V-8 with every option from A/C to AM/FM CD and power everything - windows, locks, cruise, tilt... everything but 4x4 package. Interior and exterior are showroom, but the thing that got my juices flowing is that this has bids of only $6,200 - and NO reserve!

Yeah, I know things should heat-up when the auction draws to a close, but there are wild deals to be had if you watch on a regular basis. So what's my point? We installed the coolest widget on our website, Dodge-Truck.us. We are pulling real-time eBay feeds for "Dodge Truck" related auctions.

I'm not the most sophisticated website techie, and this may not be the most technologically advanced application you've ever seen online... but if you're a Dodge truck driver and are looking for anything from a used truck to Dodge parts or memorabilia, you gotta check this out. Go here...

I don't know what your experiences with eBay have been, but overall - I like it. Of course, I've bought some of the cheap (a.k.a. Chinese manufactured) tools and electronics that weren't worth the cost of shipping, but I have also had some great experiences buying and selling on eBay. Over the years, I have sold two motorcycles, a trailer and a bunch of household items I'd typically give away to Goodwill. In addition, I've made some really great buys on eBay. I've bought name-brand tools for less than the cost of shipping and I got aluminum rims for my truck that were a steal. If you're careful and a smart buyer, eBay is an excellent resource. Hope you like the new addition to our website.

Check out what's Dodge HOT on eBay right this very second. Our feed pulls items from the auctions, which are about to end. Now you can get those new rims, or bid on that classic Dodge you've been trying to talk yourself into buying. See what's HOT on eBay right now!

Dodge Man

PS: Bookmark that page and check it regularly - as you know, new treasures (and junk) are added every minute!

Al Gore goes Dodge?

2006-10-24T11:10:00.000-07:00

My mama taught me as a young boy - never talk about politics or religion as those two subjects would always get me in trouble. Like a good son, I always heed my mother's advice (right) and strive not to let those subjects appear on these pages. But . . . today I just couldn't help myself because I chuckled at a headline I read on the Drudge Report.

"Gore motorcade to global warming event: 3 motorcycles, 2 limousines and a DODGE truck!"
The story went on to say...

Former Vice President Al Gore appeared in Berkeley on Monday to lend his celebrity and reputation as a crusader against global warming to a measure on California's Nov. 7 ballot that would tax oil companies to raise $4 billion for green energy projects.

"I'm here to change peoples' minds on the climate crisis and to support Prop 87," Gore called to a group of reporters after he emerged from the "100 miles per gallon" Toyota Prius that brought him to a noontime rally in a sun-drenched park behind Berkeley's City Hall.

I have no political agenda here (honest), I just thought it was funny that a fellow who spoke at this "green-themed meet" arrived in a motorcade that included three motorcycles, two limousines and a Dodge Ram 1500 light duty truck. Limos and a Dodge truck? Is this a "do as I say - not as I do" example for us or just politics as usual? Hey, does anybody really care?

What's your MPG?

2006-10-19T08:38:00.000-07:00

Stand two guys in a parking lot beside their trucks - and before two minutes have passed, one of the fellows will invariably ask the other, "what kind of fuel mileage you getting"? Maybe this isn't just a 'guy thing', but an 'owner thing'. Everyone wants to be reassured that their purchase is performing as expected - or at least as advertised.

When this question is posed to me, my response is... "I have no idea".

You may as well ask me what's the difference between a Democrat and a Republican (I sadly believe there is no difference these days) because I see such questions as conversational banter, not a serious appeal for data.

I don't believe that anyone spends $30k - $40k+ for a V-8 truck, gas or diesel, for their excellent fuel mileage (with the possible exception of some white collar wannabees). IMHO, guys buy trucks because the need them to work - for work. They need a truck to haul things, move materials and equipment - and be part of the crew.

I cannot truthfully tell you if my truck get 10 MPG or 100 MPG because I never checked my MPG, and I've owned four Dodge Ram trucks. Don't misunderstand me in that I would rather my truck gets in excess of 25 MPG than 16 MPG, but that was never factored in as part of the decision process when I bought a truck.

Soaring fuel prices today might make me take into account the differences between a Hemi or diesel. For the first time in our history, diesel costs more than regular gasoline. What's funny is - that point helped persuade me to buy my diesel in '04. I figured that the country moves on diesel, the government would never let it get out of hand. Well, those DC suits let me down again and diesel has been pricier than gas for a couple years now.

If you have visited my Dodge Truck website, you know that I presently own a Dodge Ram 3500 diesel, and yes - I absolutely love it. The bottom line is that when you're contemplating buying a full-sized pick-up (because you need a full-sized pick-up), MPG is a discussion point, not a decision making point. If you're looking for superior MPG, you probably shouldn't be considering a truck. You will probably be happier with a Toyota's Prius... I hear they get
exceptional gas mileage!

A Rest Stop

2006-10-18T08:37:00.000-07:00

When I was a kid in high school, my first car was a 1963 Chevy Impala SS. Now that was a 'bad' automobile. It was painted black w/white & black interior, and probably had 40 pounds of wax on the sheet metal. Over time I swapped my 283 ci. engine for a 327 ci. screamer! I experimented with dual quad carbs, tri-power and even fabricated a homemade ram air induction. Man, that was a fun time!

I learned how to tinker with - and eventually fix my own cars through the trial and error mechanics lessons I learned with "my pride and joy". I think I spent more time under it than driving that car, but that experience laid the groundwork for my future fix-it chores. While in high school, I also worked at a local gas station and also learned a lot from that experience. In a few short years, I became a pretty good back yard mechanic.

Back then, I was earning $1.60 per hour (minimum wage in the late 60's). When I needed parts to fix or customize my Chevy, I had two affordable options. One was the local junk yard where you could rummage through the yard, find a part that 'might' work, remove it and buy it cheap. The other option was to open the J. C. Whitney Catalog and make a phone call or place an order by mail.

I have been receiving the J.C. Whitney catalog for almost 40 years now. I think it would be an amusing thing to see their report on the parts I've ordered over the years. From the '73 Volkswagen Super Beetle I bought when I returned from Viet Nam and became a civilian, to the numerous cars, SUVs and trucks that have been a part of my life ever since. If you have ever been on their mailing list, you know how good their prices are - and their parts and accessory selections are outstanding.

I took this side trip from our usual Dodge truck discussions to mention a company that deserves mentioning. Take a moment and browse the J. C. Whitney Catalog online and see if they don't have that 'ONE' option you've been planning to buy... one of these days. Enjoy.

Dodge Blog's New Home

2006-10-13T13:42:00.001-07:00

We Moved!

Welcome! If you got here by linking from our old blog, thank you for making the extra click. This is the same blog, same Dodge Truck website, same editor, but a new blogging platform. I'm really excited about the features and options of this new software. So far, the only irrating limitation I've discovered is a curiously missing "import option". It appears that I cannot upload the posts and comments from the old site.

What this means is that I will most likely have to cut & paste every post to this new site. Due to this limitation, I will keep the old site alive until this manual migration is finished. Man, I'm not looking forward to that.... maybe I'll just wait for a cold winter weekend and lock myself in my room... maybe not. To be continued...

Some of the new features I was able to incorporate wit this platform are convenience features for you. If you have a personal page on Google, Yahoo!, MSN, AOL, etc., you can subscribe to this blog just by clicking on the corresponding button at left. In addition, if you use any of the "Social Bookmarking" sites that are popular these days, all you need to do is click one of the "Chicklets" at the bottom of this page to add this to your list.

DISCLAIMER: If you are new to my Dodge blog, please note that I am a Dodge truck owner, in fact, I've owned four Dodge Ram trucks. I am NOT affiliated with Dodge or Chrysler or any Dodge dealer (but I will accept advertising - cause the baby needs shoes). I'm not a professional mechanic, nor do I work for an Ad agency that promotes Dodge. I'm an owner, and I just happen to love my truck. Anyone who would buy four trucks in a row, must like the product (or is a serious creature of habit).

So, now that you know I'm not pitching anything (or trying to sell you a truck), sit back, fasten your seat belts and enjoy the ride. Although this is my Dodge Truck blog, what makes it most enjoyable for me (and other readers) are your questions and comments. Agree or disagree, but give us your feedback. Click the "COMMENTS" button at the bottom of every post to add your thoughts. You don't have to supply an email address, so I won't be peddling your name to any list.

Thanks,

The Dodge Man (a.k.a. Tom)