Buy and Build: Dodge RAM Under $10,000
March 11, 2021
Once again, we are running you guys through the buying and building process of a truck. This time we are buying and building a Dodge Ram. The cost of the truck AND the build including wheels, tires, and suspension will amount to under $10,000. Let’s get started.
Table of Contents
Buy the Ram
Starting Budget: $10,000
Alright, first things first, in order to buy and build a Dodge Ram under $10,000 we need to first purchase the said vehicle. Right now there has been a lot of demand for these trucks so inflation on pricing has been very heavy. It can be hard to find a good truck under $10,000, especially while leaving room for your customizations. However, it can be done.
When I started my search for which Ram to go with I quickly picked a Dodge Ram 1500. In this price range, we are going to have to go back to when these trucks were still under the Dodge name. This means any Dodge Ram produced before 2009. 2006+ was still incredibly inflated since these were a very sought-after update of the 3rd generation Rams, spanning from 2002-2009.
So I immediately knew it had to be something from before 2006 for the sake of our budget. When looking into the prices of a 2005, they were still also very high, and wouldn’t leave any room for modifications and fun.
All of this led me to the 2004 Dodge Ram 1500. The price was right and I knew instantly that this was the winner. The aesthetics of this truck are still quite modern and it looks great on the road to this day especially with wheels, tires, and suspension.
The most popular trim choice of the 2004 Dodge Ram 1500 was the Regular Cab ST 4WD SB. The average price landed us around $7,500.
This truck features 15 mpg, a 4.7L engine, 235 horsepower, and 295 torque. Its maximum towing capacity is 4,500 pounds. It is 4WD, has a 26-gallon fuel tank capacity, and is a safe, great-looking, and comfortable ride.
Budget after buying the truck: $2,500
Suspension
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Starting off with suspension, because this is what defines the build moving forward. This is because based on what suspension system you go with, it will determine how much space you have for larger wheels and/ or tires.
The most popular suspension system for a 2004 Dodge Ram 1500 4WD is the ProRyde Leveling Kit. This kit will only cost you $189, leaving you a great budget for the best wheels and tires that we offer.
Budget after buying suspension: $2,311
Wheels
Jumping right into wheels, this truck deserves the best. The brand new Anthem Off-Road Rogues are our newest wheel launch and they have quickly become a fan favorite. This will be the perfect complement to your custom vehicle. The most popular size for this truck is the 17x8.5 0 in the black milled Rogue.
A set of these wheels will only run you $896 and transform the look of your truck immediately. The Rogue is an 8-spoke wheel, with covered lug nuts and a simulated beadlock around the lip.
Budget after buying wheels: $1,415
Tires
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Finally to finish this build off, the most practical part; tires. The tire of choice here is the Nitto Ridge Grappler 285/70R17. This has been our most popular tire for two years running. It is a great choice when looking for a tire that can do it all.
The Ridge Grappler is a hybrid tire that can easily take you from off-road and rugged terrain to the highways with ease and comfort. It is a strong and tough tire that will be there for you through any adventure. A set will cost you only $940 when you package these tires with your new wheels. They will also come shipped straight to your door mounted and balanced on the wheel for free.
Budget after buying tires: $475
Just like that, you have a new-to-you customized truck, all under $10,000. And you are still left with $475 for lug nuts, TPMS, ceramic coating, or Anthem gear.
Like always, remember that we offer as low as 0% APR financing, so you can buy now and pay later.
Which truck do you want us to buy and build under $10,000 next? Let us know in the comments below.
