how to know if 2nd gen or 3rd - and horsepower diff?
 

I'm looking at buying a 2002 ram 2500 cummins. In my research (wikipedia which can be wrong) it states the 2nd gen is from 1998.5 - 2002 and the 3rd gen is from 2002 - 2009. If that is true was it that they offered the 2nd gen in the first half of 2002 and the 3rd in second half? In any case, how do I know if the 2002 I'm looking to buy is 2nd gen or 3rd.

This is important to me because, again correct me if I'm wrong, but the 2nd gen only had a 235 hp engine (245 hp with the high output version). And the 3rd gen has a 250 hp (and 305 or something in the HO version).

So, bottom line question how do I find out which engine this 2002 has in it?

Thanks.

3rd gen diesels start in 2003. It all depends on what you want out of your truck. The 98.5-02 were vp trucks. The 03-present trucks are common rail. Its not hard to tell the differences between the two. Good luck in your search.

So it is a 2002 with the 6-speed manual, does that mean that it is definitely the HO (245 HP) engine?

Was really hoping it had the higher power of the 3rd gen, we are making this into a fire/brush truck and it will be hauling a 3000 lbs load on the bed, and going up steap hills in 4 wheel drive. yes I know we need to beef up the suspension. But do you think the 245 HP engine can handle that?

Are there straightforward mods (not expensive or complicated mechanically) to increase the HP a bit?

Also, we're looking at the cummins because it has a reputation for reliability, is that true for this year, and 2nd gen in general? There are some nice Duramax and 7.3 powerstroke out there for the same money. I know this is a cummins forum but are they really that much better?

Greatly appreciate the advice, we are buying soon and dropping $15k into this so we want to make the right choice.

Yes the 02 HO would be at 245hp. As for increasing HP it can be done through programmers, injectors, and turbos. However, an HO will be limited on power gains through programmers. The HO VP44 flows less fuel that the SO versions. As for the same power gains that can be seen from the 12v's don't apply to and of the 24v's.

These engines will be able to handle most anything you attach to them. As with any engine they have their faults. And with it being diesel parts cost more. As for choosing the right truck you should look at it physical capabilities, not just engine. Are there going to be many people riding in the truck at one time? The 2nd gen dodge lacks a lot of rear space for passengers. The duramax and powerstroke both are offered in crew cab configurations. In order to get a crew cab in a dodge a 3rd gen would have to be looked at.

But as for $15K most all trucks, at least in my area, start in 03 and of course rise form there. Good luck in your search. All will get the job done, just make sure the one you pick has the capability to support your fire/brush truck needs.

The 2002 model year is when the 1/2 ton gas Dodge trucks changed to the new 3rd gen body style. The 3/4 and 1-tons didn't change until 2003, that's why the confusion sometimes about what "gen" an '02 is.

If you're concerned about the difference between 235hp and 250hp, just toss on a simple plug & play Edge EZ and you can have an extra 60hp from the Dodge.

I'd avoid a mid-2000s Ford at all costs... but that's a whole other subject!