1998 Dodge Ram 1500 Laramie SLT 4x4

Description

Introduced as part of the second generation of Dodge Ram trucks, the 1998 Ram 1500 4x4 featured a bold, aggressive design with its signature "big rig" styling, characterized by a prominent front grille and muscular body lines. The pickup's four-wheel-drive capability made it a favorite among off-road enthusiasts, but it was also often chosen for use as an everyday driver. 

Under the hood, the '98 Ram 1500 offered several engine options, with the 5.9-liter V8 delivering the most horsepower (245 hp) and torque (335 lb-ft). Available transmissions included a four-speed automatic (46RE) and a five-speed manual. Inside, the Ram 1500 4x4 offered a spacious and comfortable cabin, with options for cloth or leather upholstery. The Agate interior color scheme was a popular choice, adding a touch of sophistication to the rugged vehicle. 

Features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, an upgraded audio system, and chrome grille and bumpers were also available — this well-maintained Ram 1500 opted for those upgrades and others by selecting the Laramie SLT package. 

Highlights 

• Finished in Flame Red paint over Dark Gray interior  

• Powered by a 5.9-liter V8 rated at 245 horsepower and 335 lb-ft of torque 

• 46E four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive and lockup torque converter 

• 4x4 with two-speed transfer case and front shift-on-the-fly auto hubs 

• Laramie SLT package includes: 

  • Premium cloth upholstery 

  • Tilt steering wheel 

  • Air conditioning 

  • Speed control 

  • Power windows, locks, and mirrors 

  • Upgraded audio system 

  • Tow package 

  • Chrome grille and bumpers 

  • Alloy wheels  

• The data plate decodes as: 

  • PR4 – Primary paint: Flame Red 

  • QR4 – Secondary paint: Flame Red 

  • R1AZ – Agate (Dark Gray) interior 

  • DGT – Four-speed automatic transmission (46E) 

  • BGJ – Rear-wheel anti-lock brakes 

  • BKA – Heavy-duty front suspension 

  • DHA – Lockup torque converter 

  • DHK – NP231 HD transfer case 

  • DMD – 3.55:1 rear axle ratio 

  • DRB – 9.25-inch rear axle 

  • DSA – Anti-spin differential rear axle 

• Clean CARFAX Vehicle History Report  

Features 

• Variable-assist power steering 

• Power front disc/rear drum brakes 

• Modifications sticker in the engine bay indicates “Powertrain Control Module #56046347 on 24 March 2001 (Dealer 12576)” 

• Bedliner from new 

• Maintenance under current ownership: 

  • New Westlake SU318 H/T 265/75R16 tires 

  • New radiator 

  • New water pump 

  • New high-performance iridium plugs and wires 

Known Imperfections 

• Minor paint chips on passenger door 

• Oddly, the radio’s volume knob works in reverse: Counterclockwise to turn the volume up and clockwise to turn it down 

Included 

• Spare tire mounted on the underside 

• Lug wrench and tool for lowering the spare 

• Floor mats 

• Keys and fob plus spare key 

Ownership History 

The accompanying CARFAX Vehicle History Report places this three-owner 1998 Dodge Ram 1500 4x4 Pickup in Tennessee its entire life. It was purchased new from Burgin Dodge Auto in Knoxville on 15 October 1997, and since September 2024 it has resided in Sevierville. The seller says, “This truck has always been a garage queen. My sister owned it [from 2000-2024] and worked from home; she sold it to me before she passed away last fall. It has never been driven in poor weather or off road. Runs well and A/C blows cold.”