2002 Dodge Ram 1500 Quad, 4x4, 4.7 (N code), auto, longbed, 265/70r17, oil changes every 2k-2500 mi, 154K total, No mechanical issues except the Tranny died on a raod trip at 79k.
Background:
I was experiencing a slight vibration, felt like rear drive train to me. We found a bad carrier and center U. Swapped them out; changed my studs to my summer shoes; took the truck for a drive and still had a slight vibration. Went home and parked the truck.
Problem:
I went out in the morning (truck parked over night on very slight incline, nose down), and it started, but ran on 4 or 5 cyls. I took it down to my buddy who is the closest thing to a professional mechanic in the area. He ran the codes and got back 3 different misfire codes on 1,2, and 4. He pulled the plugs and coils, they appear to be OK. He did a cursory pressure check on 2,4 found very little. At this point he's thinking maybe head gaskets.
There is no condensation, foaming or any other indication that would immediately say "head gasket". He hasn't had any time to go any further with diagnostics. We don't have access to engine/car computers or fancy equipment out here in the boonies.
I have been reading a lot about different issues with the 4.7, mostly sludging, valve failure.
I really need someone who can give me real world ideas about what might be wrong. This is a daily driver, not a cream puff or hot rod and i really can't afford new engines etc.
Help ! Please !