* Maintenance: Regular oil changes, proper fluid levels, and timely repairs are crucial. Neglect leads to premature wear.
* Driving habits: Aggressive driving, frequent towing heavy loads, and consistently short trips all put extra stress on the engine.
* Climate: Extreme temperatures (both hot and cold) can accelerate wear and tear.
* Previous repairs/modifications: The history of the truck plays a significant role. Has it had major repairs? Has it been modified in a way that stresses the engine?
With good maintenance and moderate use, a 1998 Dodge Ram 1500 engine could potentially last 200,000 miles or more. However, it's not uncommon for them to need significant repairs or replacement before reaching that mileage, especially if any of the factors mentioned above were detrimental. Some engines might fail much sooner due to neglect or unforeseen circumstances.
It's impossible to give a definitive answer without knowing the specific history and maintenance of a particular truck. You should consider it a variable rather than a fixed number.
