Hello
my current tow vehicle has died. I really like the RAM 1500 crew cab design, and since this will primarily be used for commuting with some towing am considering the V6 eight speed.
Some questions that I have not been able to get answered well at the dealership will hopefully be answered better by the experts here at allpar.
There are two options listed for rear axle, 3.21 and 3.55, with the 3.21 having 4300 lb towing and the 3.55 having a rating of 6050 lbs. If I remember correctly from looking at the brochure last night.
The dealer reported they cannot order the V6 and the 3.55 axle.
My trailer weighs about 4400 lbs empty and I expect we load about 500 to 600 lbs in it for a total weight of 5000 lbs or so.
Some questions,
With the eight speed transmission can I use 5th or 6th gear as the maximum and run at a better rpm for power while towing for long distances? for example leave it in 6th all day, not just for a short time to climb a hill or other short term use.
If so is there really a difference in the 3.21 and the 3.55, for example use 5th gear (1.29 ratio) with the 3.21 (2800 rpm at 60 mph) and 6th gear (1.00 ratio) with the 3.55 ( 2450 rpm at 60 mph)?
Is there a strength difference in the axle itself between the 3.21 and the 3.55?
Thanks for your input.