Ordering a truck
So those that have ordered a truck....especially a Ram...a few questions. Looking at a '16 Ram Mega 3500 DRW. I know I'd need swing out brackets for my camper but with the drw option only $1200 mor...
Forum Discussion
kohldad wrote:
My understanding is you get the upgraded 11.8 axle with the Aisin transmission, not because of the ratios. If you were to order the 68RFE trans or manual, you would still get the 11.5 axle. They also increase the torque when you go with the Aisin because it will handle more torque.
Other note I just discovered while double checking this, is the axle housings are the same, just the ring and pinion are increased along with a nice finned diff cover.
^ this is correct regarding the rear axle diameter and transmission choice.
I have 15 dually 4x4 with Aisin and 3.42 rear..... I have a 40' Avalanche 5th wheel trailer and run down the road at 23,040 loaded for camping. Easily traveling rolling hills (some long grades, some short) at 65-70 mph without any fuss at all. Transmission warms up and stays at a very consistent 165-167 degrees regardless of terrain type. Pulling into a campground and backing in, it will raise temp to 175-177 or so.
Transmission is very firm and direct.... no "slush box" here....in tow-haul mode, downshifts are aggressive and make great use of the exhaust brake.
At first I was skeptical of going with the lower (3.42) ratio as previously I had 3.73 and the G56 (which has lower 0.75 overdrive).... But man, what a pleasure it is to drive!!!
