88 3500 - what to look for

[Menissalt]

I've got a friend who's been looking to get a 2000-2006 dodge 2500 with the 24 valve 5.9 for trailer towing, max about 8000 lbs. He has the chance to instead get a very clean looking 88 C3500 that is well under the budget he has set aside that would meet his needs.

My ask from those more experienced, are there any things specific to this model he should make sure to check?

 

[Erik the Awful]

Everything will be worn out.

Check the steering shaft, because it's NLA and when you find one it's $150+.

SRW or DRW? Make sure somebody hasn't tried to switch it between SRW and DRW. Mine has DRW front brake rotors, which require the DRW wheels, but it's SRW. I bought a set of SRW wheels for $80 and it's going to cost me another $120 just for the correct SRW rotors.

On the plus side, it has a Dana 70 rearend, not a 14 bolt, so parts are a little more scarce, but it's a stronger rear end.