Question about axle Ratios
Looking at two, 2017 RAM 1500 Laramie Trucks. One has a axle ratio of 3.21 and has a lot of options I like. The second one has a ratio of 3.92 but with less options, prices on both are very similar. ...
Forum Discussion
Axle ratio is A LOT less important than it used to be with todays wide ratio 6 8 or 10 speed transmissions. Crawl ratio with a modern 6 speed and a 3.21 is better than the old 4spds with a 4.56. The gears are closer spaced making it easier to keep in the power band. Given a choice, the 3.92 is better and will be more enjoyable, but a 3.21 is not a deal killer like it used to be.
Payload is the biggest issues with half tons, especially Ram. A few years ago Ram changed their general design philosophy to aim more squarely at the demographics. The vast majority of 1500 buyers want a nice car with a big trunk to carry awkward items and maybe to tow the jet skies or the bass boat to the lake. Most people looking to tow a RV were looking at 2500. So they softened the ride and added amenities to the 1500 to aim for the biggest audience. The result is if looking at a Ram and planning to tow anything bigger than a speed boat, you should be looking at a 2500. That is what Ram intends, but unfortunately most salesmen don't know or understand this and just want you to sign on the line.
Payload is the biggest issues with half tons, especially Ram. A few years ago Ram changed their general design philosophy to aim more squarely at the demographics. The vast majority of 1500 buyers want a nice car with a big trunk to carry awkward items and maybe to tow the jet skies or the bass boat to the lake. Most people looking to tow a RV were looking at 2500. So they softened the ride and added amenities to the 1500 to aim for the biggest audience. The result is if looking at a Ram and planning to tow anything bigger than a speed boat, you should be looking at a 2500. That is what Ram intends, but unfortunately most salesmen don't know or understand this and just want you to sign on the line.
