I am getting ready to purchase a Dodge Ram and I am wanting to get a 2001 4x4 with a 5.9, straight drive, 4 door. My question is, is this a good year model to get for building up and putting 44's on it. Also how much of a lift will I need, the biggest lift I can find is a 10" lift from whiplash. And I a have found a 3" body lift. Will 13" be enough to accomidate the tires. The truck will not be used for the mud, but will be only driven on the road. I do wont it to be stout and reliable to drive often. What other issues should I look for before I buy the truck and lift. Thanks ahead of time for any help given.  

If this is a 1/2 ton I would not even think about it because of weak axles. You have bigger issues than just lift with axle strength and brake size and axle ratio as well. I am not talking about strength to beat it just to be "safe". A 3/4 ton's rear axle would work for you needs but front axle would not work long unless it is at least a D60. Another issue is that trucks that year had a axle disconnecter on them that weakened the front axle housing a lot and they tended to bend when lifted and loaded. You want a older 3/4 ton with lock out hubs and solid axle tubes or a 2003 or newer 3/4 ton with the new AAM front axle. (this would be my choice) On gears do not even consider anything less than a 5.13 with deeper still and better choice. To put is into perspective the much "liked" 4.10 promoted as some as the best possible ratio for a 4x4 is (with 44's) equal to about a 2.8 axle ratio with stock tires before you even consider that extra power required to roll the 44's.  Even a 5.13 with 44's is equal to about a 3.36 axle ratio with stock tires so it is still pretty tall with a 5.38 or 5.57 playing better as a compromise for your needs.  If you based this on a 3/4 ton truck to you would have more brakes to use to but even they would lack with 44's but would do better than 1/2 ton brakes.  

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If this is a 1/2 ton I would not even think about it because of weak axles.



Since he said 5.9 I'm going to guess it is a diesel, and either a 2500 or 3500...  

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If this is a 1/2 ton I would not even think about it because of weak axles.

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Since he said 5.9 I'm going to guess it is a diesel, and either a 2500 or 3500...

There was a 5.9/360 gas motor then too (and a lot more of them as well)and usually when it is a diesel they call it a "Cummins" or a CTD and not a 5.9.  

You are right, there was a 5.9, I forgot about that engine, and rightfully so. With only 15 more hp than the 5.2 why would anybody want it... anyway... still the 5.9 could be the cummins, I've heard it referred to that way many times before. Since he didn't say 5.9 V8 and said "5.9, straight" it really could go either way.