t-smith wrote:
I'm gonna throw something out that is a little different. (I have an 04 2500).
The 2005 2500 won't be able to lock out 4th gear (TH locks out only 5th), but the 06 gives you the option to lock out 5th with TH, and also press the button again and lock out 4th, allowing you to stay in 1:1. I WISH I could do that. I'm towing about 7000 lbs, and the truck wants to shift between 4th and 3rd quite a bit. An update to the TCM helps, but it can be annoying. Doesn't hurt the truck at all.
Also, I think the 06 1500 has MDS to shutdown 4 cyl (when not towing). The 2500's do not.
That being said, when I upgraded from a chevy half ton to this 2500 - huge difference. I will never tow with a half ton again. So, it really matters what is important. Payload was a big deal, and now I don't have to worry. But, cruising on the flat gets me shifting a bit.
No fifth gear on those model Dodges with an automatic trans. It's a 4 speed. 4th is OD, 3rd is 1:1 for all 46, 47, 48 RE transmissions.
You can do a work around for the tow haul to lock out OD pretty reasonably.
To the OP, talking apples to apples with both trucks, I'd go for the 2500 for a couple reasons. Better brakes and suspension, heavier axles. If they are cloth interior, the 05 seats are much better than the 06-07 cloth.
And 15mpg towing a 6700lb trailer aint gonna happen with either of them. 3.73 vs 3.92 axle, not alot of difference. Could gain the same effective final gear ratio by dropping to a 245 tire if it has 265s.
