What to look out for: 2001 Ram 1500

Just got a 2001 Dodge Ram 1500 ext cab with the 5.2 Liter V8, 2WD. The truck has exactly 200,000 on it. As of right now the only thing wrong with it mechanically is the front U-joint is shot. That aside, it runs and drives very well. What should I look out for I guess is my question. What's prone to go, or possible preventative things I should do to make sure it'll be a fairly reliable truck? I got the truck from the company I work for, so I do know it's been properly maintained since it was new.

Correction, it's a 2000 not an '01. I replaced both U-joints, and that took the slop right out of the drivetrain. :bigthumb: I'll still take any advice or heads ups anyone's got on this truck.

Did you get any type of routine maintenace records with this truck?

Are you getting the normal fuel economy for this type of truck?

I have all the records of everything ever done to the truck. It's getting about 15.5 mpg average. 17-18 on the highway. I don't know what's normal for these trucks, although the man who drove the truck for the first 120,000 miles of it's life said it was never really all that great on gas, even when it was new.

Pete -
I have a 96 2500. You will need Ball Joints if they haven't been replaced recently. Have them checked out.
Smitty's Buick

Ya know what, today as I was putting air in the tires, I notices some light chopping on the outer edge of the front passenger tire. I'll get under there and take a look tomorrow. Thanks!!
Oh! Also, I notice a barely audible groaning sound that changes pitch to the speed of the truck. It's most noticeable when slowing down just as the truck's about to come to a stop. I can't seem to pinpoint it's location though. Any thoughts?

A Dodge isn't known for getting a good fuel economy.

My '96 2500 w 5.9 gas got about 16 on the highway the last time I took it on a long trip. Defninitely not good on gas.
Smitty's Buick

Update: Still running like a champ, however I found the source of the "groaning" sound. Looks like the rear end is on it's way out. Anybody think there's any way I could get it to last through the winter?