Ram 3500 MPG test

Cummins12V98 wrote:
Towing at 70 is the real difference in fuel economy here and I would say this is where the 10 speed trans comes into play. Drop the speed to 60 the RAM will still be in 6th at 1,750, what gear will the Ford be in and what rpm?

Can't remember what RPM is the Ford doing at 70 on flat, ground I assume in 10th?

Cummins is doing 2k at 70 in 6th with 4.10's, what would the rpm's be if the RAM had 3.42's at 70?

To get an idea as to what the 10 speed would do for the Cummins all you'd have to do is drive your Ram down the road towing a heavy load at 1700 rpm in high gear and reset your milage meter...... drive a few miles and see what your average trip mileage was. Then go back and drive the exact same stretch of road at the same speed in 5th gear (about 2095 rpm) and see what your trip meter says for mpg. There is always people claiming they lock out high gear while towing and don't see any loss in mileage. I've never believed these claims, but at the same time I don't think the increased fuel usage is going to be anywhere near 30%.