Decided on the Ram, now need some help with the options :-)

[Zeronet]

While specing it out, it looks I might be better off by going to a Limited since we pretty much want it all

I came to the same conclusion.

 

[dutchman187]

I came to the same conclusion.

Yep, me as well.

 

[Edwards]

Me too. Was originally going with a Longhorn, but to load it up would have been $1,300 more than a Limited and I decided I didn't think the black/tan interior was worth that much...

 

[MopaRAMan]

Having had both the limited slip and e locker, I would recommend the e locker if you plan to drive on icy or very slick road ways. The limited slip will give you excellent straight ahead traction, but it will upset the truck more when turning. Especially when you have the bed loaded. My truck always tried to push the front end around corners. The backend is also more prone to kick out on crowned or off camber roads if both tires are slipping. The e locker when not locked (open diff) will allow better control in these conditions. The negative with the e locker is it would be worse than limited slip if locked in the same slick conditions. Additionally, you must stop to lock the rear diff. In higher traction situations like climbing or mud, the e locker is better.

 

[Zeronet]

Me too. Was originally going with a Longhorn, but to load it up would have been $1,300 more than a Limited and I decided I didn't think the black/tan interior was worth that much...

My thoughts exactly. I wanted l the Longhorn black/saddle interior but the cost is much higher than a similarly equipped Limited. Not going to happen unless my wife makes me buy it. Never should have shown her a pic of that interior.

 

[YoAdrian]

I’ve been hanging back because it’s true a lot of your options really come down to personal preference. After the discussion though I’m reminded of all the pitfalls and or trade-offs in the option trees. Here are my thoughts:

• Etorque - will EVENTUALLY pay off. I added it. Don’t mind start stop, will be great to save gas around town or on my short commute.
• 3.92 - increased tow capacity worth it, and I read about WAY too many people super happy with the added acceleration (more “smiles per gallon”). I had to have it. Lost a little mpg, but hey, eTorque.
• Center console - I sacrificed the luxurious console for the “in a pinch” sixth seating position... and saved a little money. I may eventually regret this choice, that’s ok.
• Bed Utility Group - Yep, mainly for the spray in liner, hate the idea of the bed being all scratched up paint. Plus I added Ramboxes, and now that the production speed is back to normal glad I did. BUG includes a bed divider which is a nice organization item.
• Trailer Tow Group - NOPE. Just the brake controller, kept my power folding mirrors because I will be parking in a tight garage. Stock mirrors are wider than my current tow vehicle, plus I added the blind-spot sysytem to help cover me.
• Laramie Level 1 only for me, solely for the blind-spot protection. Alpine 9 speaker is good enough for me.
• Anti-Spin Differential Rear Axle - didn’t do it, may regret in the snow.
• 4-Corner Air Suspension - started with this but removed it based on cost and intermittent reports of long term problems in very cold climates. Don’t want to take the chance, will cope without it.
• 33 Gallon Fuel Tank - absolute must for us, with looooong road trips and lots of towing in our future! Plus the 3.92 ratio resulting in lower mpg.
• Power Running Boards - settled for a Laramie, so got fixed ones.
• Radio: Uconnect 8 w/Nav... almost skipped Nav but found the Sirius travel weather data to be really cool... imagining it will be great to use it to avoid snowstorms, icy mountain passes, or super strong crosswinds.

 

[SpeedyV]

Me too. Was originally going with a Longhorn, but to load it up would have been $1,300 more than a Limited and I decided I didn't think the black/tan interior was worth that much...

It was for us But I also liked the front grille and the wheels better on the Longhorn.

 

[Zeronet]

It was for us But I also liked the front grille and the wheels better on the Longhorn.

Yup, the wheels are nicer on the Longhorn. Either grill is good for me.

 

[devildodge]

@YoAdrian very good take on the options.

I know the majority here really dig the limited...but if Iwas after a fully loaded truck...Laramie with sport package and offroad package really has smitten me.

@SpeedyV I think yours was definitely worth the extra. Man is that nice

 

[SpeedyV]

I test drove an F-150 and compared it with the new 1500 Laramie Crew Cab with eTorque and it was a no contest for both myself and the wife.
So now the time has come to figure out what options we want/should have. Living in Colorado so some snow and ice in the winter and planning to buy a trailer (25 - 30 feet, likely around 7000 or pounds). We will use it as a daily commuter car and as our main family car.
Now, for the towing we heard someone say a longer wheel base helps stabilizing or having the 4-corner air suspension would greatly help. I never thought of that and should we go with either or both? The latter is like 2K more than going with a longer bed which again is more than staying with the 5.7 bed. Advice in this area would be greatly appreciated.

Anyhow, these are the options we are considering (I put comments where I am unsure how useful something is):

• Engine: 5.7L V8 HEMI MDS VVT Etorque
• 3.92 Rear Axle Ratio - I want the capability to tow more if needed
• Black, Leather Trimmed Bucket Seats - Love the console
• Bed Utility Group
• Trailer Tow Group - this is a bit odd configuration; I like that Ford has the max tow which then adds the rear axle, bigger gas tank with a discount. Some option that I think should be added.
• Laramie Level 2 Equipment Group
• Anti-Spin Differential Rear Axle - Is this really needed? Or is the automatic 4X4 enough when slippery outside (or just plain 4x4)
• 4-Corner Air Suspension ? So this is unsure and expensive
• 33 Gallon Fuel Tank - also depends; seems like I see sometimes 23 gallon tanks and sometimes 26 gallon ones.
• Power Running Boards - wife is short
• Radio: Uconnect 12 -wife is spoiled

Everyone's taste is different and I am open to suggestions (I was thinking about the sports package which would take care of the bucket seat/console, but not sure I like the hood; I ain't 20 no more.
Thanks in advance for the input.

My thoughts on the options relevant to my Longhorn...

• The Hemi eTorque is the best we can get in the new truck right now, from a power/efficiency standpoint.
• Almost nobody regrets having the 3.92 axle ratio. Many wish they had it.
• The Bed Utility Group is critical with RamBoxes. I'm not sure otherwise.
• No Trailer Tow Group for me, as power-folding mirrors and the 360 Surround View were preferred. I added the Trailer Brake Controller separately.
• I went with the E-Locker (came with Off Road Group) vs. Anti-Spin. I would get one or the other, as opposed to an open diff.
• I'm really liking the air suspension so far. Makes it easy for my in-laws to climb in/out of the truck when I haul them around.
• I went with the 33-gallon tank, as it seems like you can never have too much range.
• We love the power running boards; they are well-integrated and also assist with entry/exit. They deploy much lower than fixed steps.
• I'm loving the 12" UConnect. My wife comments that it looks like I "...have an iPad in my dash"

Good luck with your order!

 

[SpeedyV]

@SpeedyV I think yours was definitely worth the extra. Man is that nice

I figured if we're spending this much, let's get exactly what we want. With discounts, etc., it wasn't really that much more. And the truck will (hopefully) be enjoyed long after the purchase price is forgotten.