Diesel Ram 1500 terrible Payload

otrfun wrote:
For those RV.NET users who demand only the best in-class payload and tow capacity numbers, it's a given the Ecodiesel is not for you. From your perspective the Ecodiesel is a terrible, terrible choice. Totally get it.

BUT . . . the Ecodiesel could be a reasonable choice for those folks on RV.NET that tow smaller TT's with a loaded weight of around 4,000-5,000 lbs. and a tongue weight of 400-750 lbs. I see a LOT of these types of TT's on the road every year. I believe there's a large, silent minority of folks right here on RV.NET that tow these very kinds of TT's.

What's really gonna make or break this truck is the Ecodiesel's ability to pull off its best-in-class, EPA mpg numbers in the realworld---it's not gonna be payload. In a couple of months we're going to start getting some REAL numbers from REAL owners. If, and this is a big if, if this truck can consistently produce 14-16 MPG numbers towing an average 4,000-5,000 lb. TT at 65 MPH (level ground, no wind), IMO it'll be a huge success with this segment of RV.NET users.

For those that say no way, well, Consumer Report (and other testers) have consistently reported 40-50% better MPG with the Ecodiesel vs. other 1/2 ton trucks with similar torque specs under the same test conditions. Granted, some will argue the Ecodiesel may get better mileage, but its 0-60 times (or HP) aren't competitive. All I can say is torque does the work, not HP.

On another note, I'd venture to say, for some, MPG or payload won't even be a concern with the Ecodiesel. For some, having 420 ft. lbs. of torque available at just above idle while towing their 4,000-5,000 lb. TT will make their day. It's the diesel experience--some want it, some don't.

Only time will tell.