Though second generation Dodge Ram trucks were the result of a lengthy and controversial redesign process, they are representative of old school trucks and don’t come close to offering today’s comfort and safety features. Still, with a few cost effective upgrades, you can greatly improve upon your experience and safety.
Mirrors
With the release of the second generation Ram, away went the first generation’s bracket mounted mirrors and in came an integrated power, heated mirror system. Though this was a significant upgrade, the problem with them is they are small and are not very helpful when pulling wide trailers. They also lack moon mirrors which are very helpful in eliminating blindspots.
For a few hundred dollars you can upgrade your gen 2 mirrors to a more modern design that is not only compatible with electric adjustment and heating system but they don’t look out of place. They also feature builtin moon mirrors, a manual fold up trailer mode, and a manual fold in parking mode. One option is the Trail Ridge mirror set.
Windsheild Clear Tint
Most second generation Rams shipped with factory air conditioning. Dodge’s AC systems are reliable and good. Still, Ram Club Cab options create a lot of interior space and in hot climates the factory AC can reach its limit. The quickest way to lower summer temperatures and make the air conditioner more effective in any car is clear, heat reducing windshield tint. Go do some research and talk to your local window tinting shop.
Carhartt Precision Seat Covers
Let’s face it, the second generation Dodge interiors are really dated. One can chalk much of it up to charm but when it comes to the cloth seat option, they are hot, stick to your clothes, and hard to clean.
Carhartt makes a precision seat cover systems out of tightly woven fabric that stays cool, repels water, and are really easy to clean. When ordering these seat covers you are presented with options to accommodate head rest shapes, seat through seat belt designs, seat back, and center console options that varied greatly in second generation Rams. They also make a custom dashboard cover. Though a bit pricey, this is a comfort upgrade you will not regret.
Modern Radio and Mobile Setup
Single DIN radio upgrades have been commonplace since the 70’s. Back when gen 2 Rams rolled off the assembly line, radio replacements were actually an upgrade. The the evolution of mobile telephones and car entertainment integration, radio upgrades don’t make as much sense. Recent innovation in single DIN units actually afford older car owners a modern upgrade.
The Pioneer SPH-10BT is a $150 upgrade that not only brings hands free phone into your cab, it has a simple fold out phone holder that allows you to see Waze and Google Maps safely while driving.
