2012 Dodge Ram 3500 diesel & Eagle Cap 1160

[Sheriffdoug]

Hello,

Looking to change from my Chev Silverado 2500hd srw Longbed to 2012 Dodge Ram Laramie 3500hd crew drw diesel Longbed.

What upgrades do you recommend to fit heavy 4300lb Eagle Cap 1160 Camper to
New Ram 3500 truck?

Want a sofa, more storage, dry bath, less roll/sway.

Current Chevy has Helliwig Big Wig, Airbags & Rancho 9000xl shocks.

I love current Chev & Adventurer TC, but want more space to bring grand children occasionally.

Please tell me your thoughts.

[ADA6969]

HI, SEE SIG ON MY SET UP, IT WORKS GREAT. NO TRAILER AND JEEP 12PSI IN AIR BAGS TO LEVEL W/ TRAILER AND JEEP LOADED TO CAMP 35 TO 45 PSI... TRUCK AND CAMPER LOAED 13K LBS + TOUNGE WEIGHT.

[dadwolf2]

INBellbuoy wrote:
I'd also consider a manual too, not a fa of Chrysler automatic tansmissions. My six speed manual w/ the Cummins 6.7 will haul aXX.

The new Dodge automatics are good. They are WAY better than the 47E's you are probably thinking of.

[zb39]

I would try it stock first. Then go with tours lifts if you feel you need them.

[rumcoke]

x2, and top it off with a 9' service body and you shall have ample storage.

[Steve_in_29]

Since you are going to be buying a new truck anyways, you should just step up to a 4500/5500. That way there are no "upgrades" needed at all.

[Super_Dave]

We have an Eagle Cap owners forum where I'm sure you'll find someone with you desired set up to give you personal experience. I don't know if I'm allowed to post a link but it can easily be found in a google search.

[Super_Dave]

We have an Eagle Cap owners forum where I'm sure you'll find someone with you desired set up to give you personal experience. I don't know if I'm allowed to post a link but it can easily be found in a google search.

[Butch50]

If you want to stay with a 3500 I would look at a 2013, I beleive that Ram raised the GVWR to 14000# from the 12200 they used to have.

[Sheriffdoug]

Thanks for all your replies. Still researching 3500hd Ram & Eagle Cap 1160 Union.
Will Ram 3500hd cope with Eagle Cap 4300lb dry camper?

[jimh406]

I'd try it like it is. Otherwise, the normal changes apply. A 4500 might be an option as well.

[KD4UPL]

If you're getting a truck with 4x4, diesel engine, lots of options, etc. And a camper with lots of options, and hauling 4 or 5 people and their gear I would look at a 4500 series. The 3500 will probably handle it but will be over weight I suspect. Of course, most trucks carrying TCs are.
If you stick with the 3500 you will probably at least want some good heavy duty shocks like Bilstein or KYB Monomax. Most stock shocks are junk to begin with. Other than that I'd see how it rides and go from there.

[12V_Cummins]

Your ram 3500 is plenty of truck for an 1160. I'd just add rubber stableloads first and that should be fine.

[INBellbuoy]

You might even want to go for a 4500/5500, that is one heavy camper. I'd also consider a manual too, not a fa of Chrysler automatic tansmissions. My six speed manual w/ the Cummins 6.7 will haul aXX.