DRW and engine opinions

[gbw]

Hello,

I currently have a 2003 Ram 3/4T CTD. I have supersprings and 3750# tires. It handles the load decently but now with kid #2 around, I find we're hauling more stuff (stroller, pack-n-play, bikes, sand toys, etc) I'd eventually like to get a boat down the road.

Thing is, my Bigfoot is a SB model. Also, my truck is in tip top shape. I replaced everything on the front end and have been meticulous in its maintenance. Very low hours and only 260,000KMS. With the 2nd kid, we had to get a SUV which now does all of our regular, non-camping driving and the truck only gets used about 10,000Km per year, exclusively with the camper in the warmer months.

I've stumbled upon a 2006 DRW Ram with a 6 speed and Hemi ($10,000 CAD, or $37 US). Will I hate life with the older 5.7 Hemi and a camper? plus potentially a boat in a few years? Mileage is a modest 140,000Kms. I also realize there will be a 16-18" gap between the cab but that can be used for chainsaw, genny, several kids toys. I completely expect to be going slower, shifting more compared to the cummins but with kids, our time lines vary greatly anyways!

I've tossed up a Megacab DRW but they're just out of my price range right now. If I stay with the Dodge/Ram, I can transfer my camper tie downs & superhitch.

Let me know your thoughts.

[Glacier_D]

Gas engines are fine until you get up in altitude, that is where a TD rules.

[brholt]

I tend to agree. The hemi will do fine with just a truck camper. Unless your talking about a monster boat it will likely also work. It will not be a diesel but it will get you to where you want to go.

[Super_Dave]

I don't think you will hate life with just the camper but once you add a boat, you might. You would also likely not be as aware if you didn't already own a diesel. But you might be spoiled.

If I owned that truck and was going to use it the way you intend, I'd probably put 4:10's in it for increased torque.