New Ram 5500 Build
We were running over 13K on the rear axle of a 2019 Ram 3500. Despite it handling the load well (with mods), we knew it wasn't responsible to continue with that rig and have spent the last few months ...
Forum Discussion
As some of you may know, the cab and chassis trucks are derated. The 3500 HO/AISIN I had was rated at 400hp/1000tq with 3.73 gears, and this truck is rated for 360hp/800tq with 4.89 gears. I figured the gears would make up for most of the decrease, though I'll end up with a 4.27 gear ratio after the tires.
Anyway, after driving this truck a bit, I feel the difference is negligible. The power comes in lower in the power band with the way it's tuned, and feels every bit as strong with the old truck, at least unloaded. I think between the tuning and less restrictive torque management, it's a wash and should still be close even with 4.27s. That's all based on unloaded impressions, though. The concern seems silly, since 360hp/800lb-ft is still a whole lot.
Our fifth wheel hasn't been weighed recently, but probably comes in around 17K. Truck camper is 7K-ish. And we tow a 6K Jeep behind it. Should be well within the truck's limits.
Anyway, after driving this truck a bit, I feel the difference is negligible. The power comes in lower in the power band with the way it's tuned, and feels every bit as strong with the old truck, at least unloaded. I think between the tuning and less restrictive torque management, it's a wash and should still be close even with 4.27s. That's all based on unloaded impressions, though. The concern seems silly, since 360hp/800lb-ft is still a whole lot.
Our fifth wheel hasn't been weighed recently, but probably comes in around 17K. Truck camper is 7K-ish. And we tow a 6K Jeep behind it. Should be well within the truck's limits.
