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Autoblog Podcast #339

Farewell, Zach Bowman; Pikes Peak 2013; Datsun; 2014 Ram lineup
Episode #339 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and it's the last rodeo for Zach Bowman before he departs for other pastures. The crew this week consists of Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and Jeff Ross, who talk about the astounding records set at this year's Pike's Peak hill climb, the return of the Datsun brand name and the recently-announced 2014 Ram truck lineup. Of course, we start with the garage and end with your questions and comments. For those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. You can follow along after the jump with our Q&A. Thanks for listening!
Autoblog Podcast #339:

Common Dodge Ram 1500 vs. Chevrolet Silverado breakdowns

These two trucks are famous for their ability to get the job done. Still, even the toughest vehicle can have mechanical problems at some time. What if we match the Dodge Ram 1500 and Chevrolet Silverado head to head? Let's find out more about common repairs for each model. Also, learn some tricks to pay for car repairs. Clunky Steering Both Dodge and the Chevy owners sometimes notice bumping and clunking when steering. This might be more noticeable when driving over bumps. The cause is usually different in each truck though. In the Dodge Ram, clunky steering is more likely due to a defective lower ball joint. Replacement costs around $300 - $400, parts and labor. Clunky Chevy Silverado steering is probably a steering rack failure. This problem appears more often in trucks with over 90,000 miles. Silverado steering rack repair will run you up to $1,000 or more. Starting Woes For the Chevy Silverado with over 130,000 miles, you might notice trouble starting. This problem may appear occasionally at first, but it typically gets worse. Excluding a weak battery, the culprit is usually the starter. Replacement will cost you around $330 - $500. Of the total cost, $90 is for labor only. Now the Dodge Ram might make a ticking sound when starting, especially on models with over 94,500 miles. The noise often disappears after the engine warms up. These symptoms may indicate a broken exhaust manifold. Repair costs range from $800 - $900. Burning Oil & Gas Gauge On The Blink Sometimes, the Dodge Ram burns oil much faster than normal. In models with over 125,000 miles, this often points towards a leaky intake manifold gasket. A knocking sound may also appear with acceleration along with possible engine misfire. The cost to repair is around $200 - $300. The Chevy Silverado has its own surprises, especially when you've filled the gas tank but the gauge still reads low. Or the needle fluctuates widely from low to full while driving. In trucks with over 120,000 miles, it's likely due to a faulty fuel sensor. You might need a full fuel pump replacement, which can cost you up to $820, parts and labor. Water Inside And Poor Heat The Ram 1500 rear window has been known to leak. You might notice the back seat and floor wet after a rainstorm. This is more common in trucks with over 65,000 miles. Resealing the Ram 1500 rear window costs around $150 - $250.

Idaho Ram dealer offered free elk taxidermy with purchase

A Ram and Jeep dealer in Post Falls, Idaho, was offering free elk taxidermy with the purchase of a new truck. Sadly, the promotion ended yesterday.  Now, is this type of promotion commonplace? I honestly have no idea, but it sure seems novel. Offering free taxidermy of any sort with the purchase of a new car or truck is certainly one thing, but the specificity of the elk really drives it home.  "Hi, I'm looking to buy your blue Ram 1500 Laramie and I just took down this pronghorn that I'd like to get taxidermied for free." "I'm sorry, sir, the promotion only covers elk. But about that Laramie ..." For those wondering, it does seem to be general elk hunting season in Idaho, but after a brief look at Idaho's extensive Big Game Seasons and Rules guide, there is a dizzying number of rules and regulations regarding exactly when and where one can hunt elk as well as what kind of elk one can hunt. Try reading that sentence out loud. Nevertheless, it would logically seem that free elk taxidermy could be enticing for those living in the area of Post Falls, which is in between Coeur d'Alene and Spokane, Washington, near the state border. So hey, why not? Way to get creative Findlay Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram.  According to the advertisement, the dealer would only cover $1,500 worth of elk taxidermy. Is that enough for a quality taxidermification of your elk? Again, I'd rather not Google that. But it's nevertheless something, right? Related Video: