i agree with most every post in here. I've got a 1998.5 24v Dodge/Cummins, and I love it. I've got the 5speed NV4500, and I wouldn't have it any other way, except for the 6sp 5600 tranny. Don't buy a diesel, any brand, prior to 2003 with an automatic tranny, GM Duramax excluded. Fords and Dodges, with their auto's, were prone to failures and the expense to replace is horrendous. Besides, the manual will give you better economy.
I've never heard of Dodge having problems with driveshafts, never, so don't let that concern you. Go to
www.tdr1.com for all things Dodge/Cummins. Great resource.
The Ford 7.3l Powerstroke engines are great. If you can find a 1997 Ford, you've found gold! Great trucks with great economy.
personally, I like Dodge, and would recommend one to anyone, as long as it's a manual. Known problems on the 2nd generation Dodge trucks(1998.5-2002.5): if 4wd, crappy, and I mean crappy front ends. there are fixes available, but be prepared to drop about $1k into the front end to keep it running and tracking straight. very weak fuel systems. The lift pump, not the injection pump, was very prone to failure, which leads to injection pump failures. I've already replaced my LP three times in two years. Automatic tranny problems(enough said already). those are generally the only major things that I know of.
With my Dodge, I've had no drivetrain problems except for the wandering steering problems. I bought a $60 part(Lukes Link) that eliminated problems with the track bar. This is an easy part to replace. Now I've got to replace the steering box, which is not cheap. Also, ball joints are a problem. Lots of weight on the front axle because of the engine.
As for the fuel system,
www.glacierdiesel.com sells a great replacement system, but there are others out there. Again, my personal experience is that I've had to replace my LP three times in the last two years.
If you decide to go with a 2nd gen Dodge, get gauges. I recommend a pyrometer(EGT) gauge cause it's easy to smoke a turbo from too much heat. Also a fuel pressure gauge for above mentioned reasons. I also run a boost gauge, but not too necessary.
PM me if you need any additional information. I've been a member over at
www.tdr1.com for about two years.