Ram prides itself as the most dependable truck on the market, with its 2500 winning an Edmunds 2016 Best Retained Value Vehicle award. Ram owners are loyal; they keep coming back for more. The brand projects that more than 68 percent of Ram owners will trade their truck in for a new Ram in the future. What makes a Ram so great? See below.
POWER
The Ram 2500/3500 has three engine options. Choose a 5.7-L Hemi V8, delivering 383 hp at 5,600 rpm and 400 lb-ft of torque. The 5.7-L features variable-valve timing (VVT), increasing efficiency and performance. Opt for a 6.4-L Hemi V8 that delivers the best-in-class gas engine, 410 hp at 5,600 rpm and 429 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm, and VVT with Fuel Saver Technology cylinder deactivation. For diesel lovers, a 6.7-L Cummins High-Output Tubro Diesel produces up to 385 hp at 2,800 rpm and 900 lb-ft of torque.
The 6.7-L Cummins incorporates the Smart Diesel Exhaust Engine Brake System to assist in controlling the descent of a vehicle in a downward slope. The engine brake uses a variable nozzle on the diesel’s turbo to maintain smooth braking while providing vehicle stability and reduced wear on the disc brakes.
The Ram 2500 tows up to 17,980 lbs and offers two segment-exclusive rear suspensions: an air suspension system or a five-link coil system. The Ram 3500 features a payload up to 7,390 lbs and tows up to 31,210 lbs. The 3500 uses the rear Hotchkiss leaf spring system and offers a supplemental air suspension system.
DURABILITY
Both the Ram 2500 and the Ram 3500 have additional features such as: trailer harness connector; heavy-duty hooks that are mounted to the frame of the truck and accommodate jobs that require heavy-weight pulling; Ram Active Air, a computer-controlled valve system in the engine air box that automatically switches where air is pulled, ensuring optimal performance regardless of heat, cold, or grade; and a tow/haul mode that includes an aggressive downshift schedule to meet hauling demands and works with the available Cummins Smart Diesel Exhaust Brake System.
The foundation of the trucks is composed of a 50,000 psi hydroformed steel frame with additional crossmembers to maximize strength and efficiency as well as hydroformed front and rear rail contours for a more secure placement of mounts and suspension components.
The Ram 2500/3500 features a three-link front suspension system—which contributes to the 14,000-lb GVWR and the 39,100-lb GCWR in the 3500. This suspension system uses more outwardly positioned springs and stronger shocks for a cushioned ride, even with a heavy payload.
The Ram 2500 features a five-link coil rear suspension that helps reduce friction without sacrificing towing capability. This creates improved turning ability and an enhanced ride. With a foundation like this, Ram owners can be assured the exterior and interior also excite.
EXTERIOR
The Ram 3500 has an available Max Tow Package with best-in-class fifth-wheel towing of 30,000 lbs. The package includes a Mopar fifth-wheel hitch, fifth-wheel/gooseneck prep package, cargo view camera, and air suspension. Electronic Stability Control, standard on all Ram 3500 trucks, keeps trailers and trucks in sync. The Ram 2500 also features an available factory-installed fifth-wheel/gooseneck prep package.
Other available Ram 2500/3500 features include: class-exclusive RamBox Cargo Management System, available wheel-to-wheel side steps, and available ParkSense Front and Rear Park Assist Sensors.
The RamBox Cargo Management System is a secure, durable, lit, and drainable storage system within the side rails of the truck bed. An available AllSecure Central Locking System keeps the RamBox and the rest of the truck locked with the push of a button. The cargo system includes cargo bed rails with four adjustable tie-down cleats, LED cargo box lighting, and a cargo bed extender/divider. A remote exterior switch in the truck bed activates LED bed lights, backup cameras are available in all models, and a Fleet Telematics Module creates efficient vehicle tracking for fleet owners.
The Cargo-View Camera is designed around security and safety. With the camera, the driver can view truck bed contents from the Uconnect display, relieving the driver of any cargo-related worry. Power exterior mirrors also contribute to a driver’s sense of awareness. Heated defrost, integrated turn signals, driver memory, and power folding are available features on the mirrors.
A truck’s exterior is a wonderful thing, but when it comes to long days on the road, the comfort of the cab trumps all.
INTERIOR
With a Ram, busy workers who want information at their fingertips get a full-color, 7-inch cluster that includes a tachometer, fuel gauge, speedometer, and more that allow drivers to keep track of vehicle performance. Crew Cabs come equipped with standard under-floor storage for tools, equipment, and even safekeeping. Ram Work Grade vinyl seats offer an easy-to-clean surface, durability, and comfort—a perfect fit for a fleet truck.
Both models feature the Uconnect 8.4 infotainment system for an extra feel of luxury, but now with an 8.4-inch screen with 4G LTE, HD radio, pinch to zoom, improved resolution, USB flip, and Android Auto/Apple Car Play. SOS, Assist, Remote Services, Send and Go, and Vehicle Finder from Sirius Guardian allow drivers to connect to a local emergency services provider in the event of an accident or emergency.
Ram stands behind its trucks. Its trucks have endured 42,525,000 real-time testing simulations from 2006 to 2016. The brand offers a five-year/100,000-mile diesel powertrain limited warranty. With all of Ram’s customer-loving features, work-ready power, and Ram-backed dependability, you’re sure to become a loyal Ram customer, too.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Find out more, visit www.ramtrucks.com.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS: NOVEMBER 2018 ISSUE
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