Forum Discussion

FireGuard's avatar
FireGuard
Explorer II
Feb 22, 2020

Ram 6.4L 8 speed vs Ford 7.3 to carry truck camper

I’m in the market for a new DRW to carry a truck camper and think I’ve narrowed it down to a 3500/350 DRW CC 4x4 4:10/4:30
I’ve had a few newer CTDs and love the motor, but feel one of the new gas engines will meet my need without the cost, maintenance and complexity of a new diesel.
I’ve read great reviews of the Ram with the new 8 speed but it looks like the 7.3 Ford may be a better engine with a more simple design and hopefully longevity.
I haven’t seen many Fords on Auto Trader but it looks like I can get a new Ram Tradesman for around $43-44k.
I will be carrying a TC approx 5k lbs and flat towing a 4K lb Jeep on occasion or similar trailer.
The Hemi seems to be proven but obviously the 7.3L is new.
What are your thoughts which would be better and why?
Could I get a similar Ford for around the same price as the Ram?
Also, I don’t “need” to buy until early fall so I have some time to see how the 7.3 works out.
I know this could go in the TC forum, but I think there may be more experience on this forum for Powertrains.

14 Replies

  • I have a ram 3500 drw 2 wheel drive crew with the 6.4 and carry a host mammonth TC over 5k , have no problem with the 6.4 plenty of power and in my configuration just short of 7k payload with the 410”s . if you go with the ram 6.4 and feel you need a rear sway bar there is only the road master available now and there were none in 2018 when I bought my truck due to the 6.4 exhaust configuration I used sumo springs to help reduce sway . Can’t speak on the fords motor .
    Mike
  • I have no experience with either but I'd say either one would do the job. It might just come down to the price or the truck you like the best.
  • You pretty much summed it up.
    The 6.4 is proven, the 7.3 sounds promising and with 10spd auto.

    Both would handily do what your asking.

    I'm going gas on next truck.