2014 Ram 2500 Cummins - my last hesitation
I'm sure this question has been asked and answered a 100 times here, so sorry in advance. I've been soliciting opinions on some of the various vehicle forums and thought this looked like a great plac...
Forum Discussion
ib516 wrote:IdaD wrote:Bedlam wrote:
Some weights and capacities to think about:
1. Even the heaviest BP toy haulers have a tongue weight of about 2000 lbs. Not all of this will go on the rear axle since you will be using a WDH.
2. The heaviest SxS/UTV you will fit in a standard bed will weigh about 1500 lbs. Going with a short bed will limit you to quads which weigh under 1000 lbs.
3. Most SRW trucks weigh less 3000 lbs empty on the rear axle.
4. Most 3/4t trucks are stickered with a rear axle rating over 6000 lbs while the 1t trucks are over 7000 lbs.
5. RAM uses a different frame between the 2500 and 3500 which benefit you to get the heavier truck. GM and Ford 3/4t and 1t trucks vary only by springs and wheels that are included in the standard package and are more or less differentiated by marketing than capability.
OT: My truck typically carries 7000 lbs on the rear axle when not towing and close to 8000 lbs when towing with the truck camper on the back. My next truck camper and trailer will be even bigger, so I am currently looking at the Class 5's that have large capacity rear axles.
As of 2014, the Ram 2500 actually began using the 3500's frame, which I think debuted in the 3500 in 2013. Supposedly it's a pretty stout chassis. So the main difference between the trucks is the rear suspension (coil vs leaf). The 3500 also has a slightly larger rear axle and the option of the high output Cummins with the Aisin transmission. Beyond that I'm not sure if there are any other differences.
The 2500 & 3500 non dually both use the same axles. The 3500 dual rear wheel model with the high output Cummins uses the larger 11.8" axle.
Thanks for the clarification. So really the difference boils down to the rear suspension setup.
I'm thinking the 2500 might be the better fit for my situation and a better balance between comfort and capacity. I don't ever foresee myself wanting a really large FW type trailer because it would limit me too much on where I like to go. Plus I don't have a huge family - there's just the four of us.
