As mentioned in the Car thread, decided to trade in my truck and step up. Came out about even versus payments on my 2021 RAM, even with stepping up a trim level. Things that I wanted / needed:
- Full crew cab to hold booster seat + car seat now that we have two boys. Making getting them in and out easier. Initially the quad cab was fine but then it became obvious that more space would be better.
- Shorter bed. Previous RAM had the 6' 2" bed or whatever it was. At that time I was just starting to haul raw lumber and other things and the larger bed seemed like a good idea. Now that I'm more comfortable a 5' 7" bed is fine. Will also allow me to fit in the garage with another inch of clearance.
- Auto running boards. The side steps I put on the previous truck were okay but not idea. The automatic ones here are lower, provide more area to step on, and retract after closing the door. Pregnant wife was immediately sold when she tried getting in and out.
- LED Lights. Never upgraded the old ones and it felt like a huge step down in visibility moving from my Mazda CX-5 with them to the 2021 RAM without. So, happy to have those back.
- Full moon roof. Again, little amenity / creature comfort I missed moving from the Mazda to a truck, now it is back.
A couple of other small things. Definitely wanted a more "family" feeling truck with the leather and small touches inside. The Big Horn was a base model with no frills and felt very utility / work vehicle. This feels better all around. Oh and heated and cooled seats again finally!
View attachment 477796
(bleep out my sales guy's head)
This means accessories!
Had to rebuy the tonneau b/c a 6' one won't fit on a 5' 7" bed. My old one was a $200 Tyger and it was okay. A few things that bothered me about it. This time I stepped up to the BAK X4s. Wanted to keep it roll up but went hard cover and one that would be flush to the side and not rely on velcro and make a bubble around the bed. Should come in Friday.
Amazon product ASIN B08Y8FKBX7
Also wanted a cover for the back when doggo is riding with us. And also maybe to catch crumbs and crayons from kids. Was going to go back with K9Ballistics but this one seems more purpose built for a crew cab with seats that can fold up. The pictures make it look pretty ugly though so may return it once I get it in.
Amazon product ASIN B07M8NVRQR
Going to do a Rhino spray liner maybe Thursday. Was considering Line-X but the feeling seemed too different from Rhino. There is no Bullet dealer next to me to try. Dealership wanted $750 to do their spray in but they suggested I just call around myself. Rhino quote was $550, so saved me $200.
That's pretty much all my play money for June and July gone!