Tow Rig question SRW or DRW for 5th RAM
I'm sure this has been debated millions of times, but here is a new spin. At what weight would you consider a DRW to be mandatory whilst towing a fifth wheel ? 10k 11k 12k 13k 14k 15k 16...
Forum Discussion
Bobandshawn wrote:
One issue, which I consider a big issue, with the Ram trucks is the only gear ratio available unless you get the DRW option is 3.42. I know that diesel is a torque monster, but 3.42?
I really wanted a Mega Cab DRW rig but the price and difficulties living with it when I don't tow that much just wasn't in the cards. I ended up with a 2500 Mega Cab short bed with the 6.4 Hemi and 4.10 gears. $45K sticker ($10K off) and fully loaded. I have the air suspension which I probably would of never ordered, but now that I have it I really like it. I still just have a pull trailer with a hitch weight of about 850 lbs. Drop the hitch on the ball and the truck makes some RD D2 noises and boom-it raises right back up. My payload on the 6.4 is about 2900 lbs and tow weight is 15.5K lbs so I'll be looking at a 12-12.5 max weight rig with a dry hitch weight of 1700-1800 lbs.
The difference is the TQ of the Cummins. Most reviews of guys towing upwards of 8-9000lbs with the 6.4 and even 4.10 gears complain about the 1-2 spacing when in certain situations. It won't shift up to 3rd and if it does it bogs when under certain speeds. Never hear that with guys towing 9,10,11,12,000lbs or more and 3.42s with the Cummins. Same tranny too.
As to the OP get the DRW if you're pushing 3000lb on the pin. That doesn't leave much left for passengers or other gear in the truck. If you can handle the up cost of the DRW and the driving then get the DRW. Never heard anyone complain when towing with a DRW.
