Which axle ratio for 2013 Ram 3500 dually?
I think I narrowed down to getting the following combo: - 2013 Ram 3500 Megacab Dually Diesel with short bed - 2014 DRV 36ft 3-slide model I've been looking at the Ram configurator and realized...
Forum Discussion
I didn't option them up but from the spec sheet, it said for 3.42, you get roughly 20k lb towing, for 3.92 (?), you get roughly 25k lb and for 4.10, you get just under 30k lb.
This is very interesting. Towing near 18,500 pounds you will be at the higher end of the 3.42 gears Ram tow rating; a definite towing 'cushion' with the 3.92 gears; and plenty of capacity using 4.10 gears. I think for something near 18,500 pounds towing I would opt for the 3.92 gears if the 3.73 are not available. That gives some extra towing capacity. Fulltiming usually requires more stuff, one estimate I saw was to plan on about 2500-3000 pounds of stuff when full timing in deference to about 1000 pounds for normal recreational weekend stuff camping. You may be closer to your GVWR for the coach then you think. The Escapees web pages might give some information on how much weight the typical full timer takes in a fifth wheel. Might be an eye opener.
As to fuel mileage, my experience with three Ram Cummins, two with 3.54 axles and the one I now own with 3.73 axles, the fuel mileage is better under 2000 rpm's, above that the engine does use fuel. It might help to look at your normal cruising speeds not towing and determine the axle ratio that would keep the tach well under 2000 rpm's for better fuel mileage if that is a concern. Most purchase the diesel for towing and the fuel mileage is a secondary, but important, consideration.
Many diesel drivers climbing a long grade will watch the tach, temps and boost more than the speedometer. And if you can keep about 20-25 percent throttle in reserve the mountain towing experience will be stress free. As 4x4Ford suggests keep the engine where you want it by using the gears. I live where the grades are long, 6 or 8 percent or more, and keeping the engine and trans in the torque makes for an easy tow up hill. So far I have never had to drop below the speed limit and can often pass others climbing while towing, a real treat! The diesel will flatten the mountains for you!
