Party like its 2003

[pfarber]

So my latest adventure is keeping a new (to me) 2003 Dodge Dakota Sport 5 speed truck alive.

The thing is GLORIOUS. No computers (other than the ECM) and the previous owner did some nice mods (power windows, power locks, nice stereo and muffler) they also neglected a ton of shit. But here's the great part: things are so damn cheap its not even a blip on the radar.

I replaced L+R Upper and Lower control arms, shocks, tie rods and wheel hubs for less than $500. That's basically an entire new front end for almost nothing. Transmission fluid change was $30 and rear differential fluid was $45. Reset the parking brake shoes as they were so far out that the parking brake went to the floor and wouldn't hold on a slight incline.

Two more issues that will need some fix'n is I have an EVAP leak (common) and the rear passenger window regulator is acting up.

Yeah its kind of a gas hog, but its fun as hell to drive a manual... even in city traffic its just not an issue (because I never skip leg day).

Super bonus: I don't need a programmer for ANYTHING. No TPMS, NO radio lock, no steering wheel controls no lane assist.. none of that garbage. Just a modest V6 and 5 gears. Have less than $5k into it. No car payments, just a fun little truck.