Thinking about getting a Ram for increased towing stability

[IvoryHemi]

Currently have a 5.7 Durango (with 8HP70/3.09 gears). I have a 7,000 lb GVWR, 31’ travel trailer that we pulled 5,500 miles this summer. Spent most of the miles towing just shy of the Durango’s GCWR of 13,100 lbs.

I know the Ram 1500 has the same 7,100 GVWR as Durango, but Ram has higher front (3900 vs 3200) and rear (4100 vs 3900) GAWR.

Basically I’m eyeing the Ram 1500 for a few reasons over my Durango (without going to a 2500)

17,000 lbs GCWR with the 3.92 gears.
+25” extra wheelbase (5’7” box)
+4” track width
+8 gallons fuel capacity (with the optional 33 gal tank)
Towing tech group

I’m a little concerned with having a lower payload rating. (Want a Laramie crew cab, 5’7”, Hemi, 33 gal, 3.92, pano roof, air suspension). We currently have about 1,300-1,400 lbs of payload when towing, which I estimate will be right up against the Ram 1500’s payload limit as configured. Well under the 17k GCWR though.

Will I be happy with the 1500, or regret not going 2500 ?

 

[rtslab]

Currently have a 5.7 Durango (with 8HP70/3.09 gears). I have a 7,000 lb GVWR travel trailer that we pulled 5,500 miles this summer. Spent most of the miles towing just shy of the Durango’s GCWR of 13,100 lbs.

I know the Ram 1500 has the same 7,100 GVWR as Durango, but Ram has higher front (3900 vs 3200) and rear (4100 vs 3900) GAWR.

Basically I’m eyeing the Ram 1500 for a few reasons over my Durango (without going to a 2500)

17,000 lbs GCWR with the 3.92 gears.
+25” extra wheelbase (5’7” box)
+4” track width
+8 gallons fuel capacity (with the optional 33 gal tank)
Towing tech group

I’m a little concerned with having a lower payload rating. (Want a Laramie crew cab, 5’7”, Hemi, 33 gal, 3.92, pano roof, air suspension). We currently have about 1,300-1,400 lbs of payload when towing, which I estimate will be right up against the Ram 1500’s payload limit as configured. Well under the 17k GCWR though.

Will I be happy with the 1500, or regret not going 2500 ?

If you don't tow often or use your truck for your heavy duty work, I would think 1500 can serve as much better family truck than 2500 for much better driving experience and overall design(5th gen vs. 4th gen) like 8-speed automatic tranismission. I also heard compared with unibody SUV using truck frame, pickup has much better towing experience because the cab is separate from the truck bed.

 

[Pyleketerson]

I bet if you put “tow” somewhere in the thread title it will catch the attention of some of the towing experts on here...and they are here, and usually very happy to help.

 

[jdefoe0424]

If you plan on going bigger, then I would just get the 2500. You'll also be more likely to put stuff in the bed too... Bikes, oh **** tools, other spare stuff, etc.
Due to Covid we accelerated our schedule and purchased a 32' TT and while I have enough payload (1615lbs), I am probably at the limit with our bikes in the bed and we are adding to our family...so adding another 50lbs when we all travel in the truck. I need to make some time in the spring to get to a scale.

I'm not saying the truck won't handle it well, it will and you will have plenty of power. But it could use some help in the rear suspension going over large bumps, and the stock XL rated tires are squirmy.

Sent from my Moto Z (2) using Tapatalk

 

[IvoryHemi]

I currently have the ZF 8-speed trans, it’s great. I use my vehicle to tow about 50% of the time. It is a family vehicle, so I do worry about losing the Durango’s rear DVD to entertain the kids on the long camping trips.

Thanks, I updated the title.

While I would like a bigger TT, I’m not sure that’s in the cards for at least 5 years.

 

[Pyleketerson]

We currently have about 1,300-1,400 lbs of payload when towing

First question is going to be if this is dry or after family + cargo is loaded in.

 

[IvoryHemi]

First question is going to be if this is dry or after family + cargo is loaded in.

That includes family and tongue weight.

(Base weight for my Durango is 5,400 lbs. I weigh in around 6,700-6,800 lbs with TT attached)

 

[Pyleketerson]

Yeah ok that’s going to be pushing it with these 1500’s depending on your options and payload capacity. Blame the rear springs they went to. My payload rating is only 1,297. I’m out, though, as I feel @devildodge is about to chime in.

 

[Dusty1948]

Currently have a 5.7 Durango (with 8HP70/3.09 gears). I have a 7,000 lb GVWR, 31’ travel trailer that we pulled 5,500 miles this summer. Spent most of the miles towing just shy of the Durango’s GCWR of 13,100 lbs.

I know the Ram 1500 has the same 7,100 GVWR as Durango, but Ram has higher front (3900 vs 3200) and rear (4100 vs 3900) GAWR.

Basically I’m eyeing the Ram 1500 for a few reasons over my Durango (without going to a 2500)

17,000 lbs GCWR with the 3.92 gears.
+25” extra wheelbase (5’7” box)
+4” track width
+8 gallons fuel capacity (with the optional 33 gal tank)
Towing tech group

I’m a little concerned with having a lower payload rating. (Want a Laramie crew cab, 5’7”, Hemi, 33 gal, 3.92, pano roof, air suspension). We currently have about 1,300-1,400 lbs of payload when towing, which I estimate will be right up against the Ram 1500’s payload limit as configured. Well under the 17k GCWR though.

Will I be happy with the 1500, or regret not going 2500 ?

You stated that you towed about 5,500 miles in a year. How many miles total did you drive? The reason the question is how the next vehicle will suit you when your towing AND not towing. I haven't met a 2500 that gets the gas mileage of a 1500, regardless who's driving. It might be something to consider.

Another point is ride. My Ram 1500s ride real well, although I have to say the new Ram 2500 ride is better than any other HD I've been in. The 2500s require a higher step in which seems to annoy the women around me. Your situation might be different.

Compare the specifications between the Ram 1500 and 2500 carefully. My two previous 1500s had a higher tow rating than my son's 2500. The 1500 is available with an optional 9.5 inch rear differential (9.25 is standard) in 3.92 only, if you care to increase the margins. Some routinely replaced parts, like hubs, rotors and calipers, are more expensive.

Good luck with your decision.

Best regards,
Dusty
2019 Ram 1500 Billet Silver Laramie Quad Cab 2WD, 5.7 Hemi, 8HP75, 3.21 axle, 33 gallon fuel tank, factory dual exhaust, 18” wheels. Build date: 03 June 2018. Now at: 044930 miles.

 

[IvoryHemi]

You stated that you towed about 5,500 miles in a year. How many miles total did you drive? The reason the question is how the next vehicle will suit you when your towing AND not towing. I haven't met a 2500 that gets the gas mileage of a 1500, regardless who's driving. It might be something to consider.

Another point is ride. My Ram 1500s ride real well, although I have to say the new Ram 2500 ride is better than any other HD I've been in. The 2500s require a higher step in which seems to annoy the women around me. Your situation might be different.

Compare the specifications between the Ram 1500 and 2500 carefully. My two previous 1500s had a higher tow rating than my son's 2500. The 1500 is available with an optional 9.5 inch rear differential (9.25 is standard) in 3.92 only, if you care to increase the margins. Some routinely replaced parts, like hubs, rotors and calipers, are more expensive.

Good luck with your decision.

Best regards,
Dusty
2019 Ram 1500 Billet Silver Laramie Quad Cab 2WD, 5.7 Hemi, 8HP75, 3.21 axle, 33 gallon fuel tank, factory dual exhaust, 18” wheels. Build date: 03 June 2018. Now at: 044930 miles.

I drove a little under 12k miles last year. So about 50% of my driving is towing.

Yes I’ve compared the 5.7/3.92 and 6.4/4.10 tow ratings. They are similar (I think it was ~12k vs ~16k) both far above my needs. The big difference I see is in payload, GVWR, GAWR, GCWR.

I would only consider a Ram 2500 get the rear coils & air that the other 3/4 tons don’t offer. I know the disadvantage of 2500, which is why I’d prefer to stay 1/2 ton.

 

[Boston]

You imho are a great candidate for a 2500 hemi. Don’t get the Cummins in the 2500 as it weighs so much.
Get an 8 ft bed and add the factory 50gallon tank

 

[Dusty1948]

I drove a little under 12k miles last year. So about 50% of my driving is towing.

Yes I’ve compared the 5.7/3.92 and 6.4/4.10 tow ratings. They are similar (I think it was ~12k vs ~16k) both far above my needs. The big difference I see is in payload, GVWR, GAWR, GCWR.

I would only consider a Ram 2500 get the rear coils & air that the other 3/4 tons don’t offer. I know the disadvantage of 2500, which is why I’d prefer to stay 1/2 ton.

I see your dilemma. There's one thing I didn't mention that you can't put a price on: peace of mind. You'd probably have more of that with a 2500.

Best regards,
Dusty
2019 Ram 1500 Billet Silver Laramie Quad Cab 2WD, 5.7 Hemi, 8HP75, 3.21 axle, 33 gallon fuel tank, factory dual exhaust, 18” wheels. Build date: 03 June 2018. Now at: 044930 miles.

 

[Jus Cruisin]

2500 gasser..... You will be able to upgrade the trailer without needing to swap trucks again. I've had 3/4 and 1 tons as daily drivers in the past. The biggest problem was the length with an 8' bed and box store parking lots.

 

[Sam_The_RAM_Man]

As has been stated by many members, the RAM 2500 with 6.4L HEMI gasser is the way to go due to the increase payload capacity and increased life of the truck. If you have the idea that you may regret not getting a 2500, go and get one. It's better to have and not use, than not have and can not do.

The way I would option a RAM 1500 Laramie would give it an MSRP of $62,730. These are the options that I would go with:

• Crew Cab 4x4 with the 5'7" bed
• 5.7L HEMI MDS VVT V8 engine
• 33-gallon fuel tank
• Chrome Wheel-to-Wheel Side Steps
• Level 1 Equipment Group
• 12-inch Uconnect touchscreen
• Dual-Pane Panoramic Sunroof
• 5-person Seating
• Sport Appearance Package
• 4-Corner Air Suspension
• Trailer Towing Group
• Bed Utility Group
• Sport Hood Delete
• Anti-Spin Differential Rear Axle
• 3.92 Axle Ratio

That being said, it is much more difficult to find a 6.4L HEMI gasser Laramie trim on the RAM 2500 platform. The way I would option a Laramie would give it an MSRP of $66,850. These are the options that I would go with:

• Crew Cab 4x4 with the 6'4" bed
• Clearance Lamps
• Chrome Wheel-to-Wheel Side Steps
• Level 1 Equipment Group
• 12-inch Uconnect touchscreen
• Single-Pane Sunroof
• 5-person Seating
• Sport Appearance Package
• Trailer Tire Pressure Monitoring System
• Automatic Level Rear Air Suspension
• Towing Technology Group
• Bed Utility Group
• 5th Wheel/Gooseneck Prep Group
• Anti-Spin Differential Rear Axle
• 4.10 Axle Ratio

So for a difference of $4,120 in MSRP, you would increase your maximum towing capacity and payload without ever having to worry. Downside is finding a gas 2500 with what you want unless you're open to ordering one.

 

[Trooper4]

As has been stated by many members, the RAM 2500 with 6.4L HEMI gasser is the way to go due to the increase payload capacity and increased life of the truck. If you have the idea that you may regret not getting a 2500, go and get one. It's better to have and not use, than not have and can not do.

The way I would option a RAM 1500 Laramie would give it an MSRP of $62,730. These are the options that I would go with:

• Crew Cab 4x4 with the 5'7" bed
• 5.7L HEMI MDS VVT V8 engine
• 33-gallon fuel tank
• Chrome Wheel-to-Wheel Side Steps
• Level 1 Equipment Group
• 12-inch Uconnect touchscreen
• Dual-Pane Panoramic Sunroof
• 5-person Seating
• Sport Appearance Package
• 4-Corner Air Suspension
• Trailer Towing Group
• Bed Utility Group
• Sport Hood Delete
• Anti-Spin Differential Rear Axle
• 3.92 Axle Ratio

That being said, it is much more difficult to find a 6.4L HEMI gasser Laramie trim on the RAM 2500 platform. The way I would option a Laramie would give it an MSRP of $66,850. These are the options that I would go with:

• Crew Cab 4x4 with the 6'4" bed
• Clearance Lamps
• Chrome Wheel-to-Wheel Side Steps
• Level 1 Equipment Group
• 12-inch Uconnect touchscreen
• Single-Pane Sunroof
• 5-person Seating
• Sport Appearance Package
• Trailer Tire Pressure Monitoring System
• Automatic Level Rear Air Suspension
• Towing Technology Group
• Bed Utility Group
• 5th Wheel/Gooseneck Prep Group
• Anti-Spin Differential Rear Axle
• 4.10 Axle Ratio

So for a difference of $4,120 in MSRP, you would increase your maximum towing capacity and payload without ever having to worry. Downside is finding a gas 2500 with what you want unless you're open to ordering one.

Good 1500, except dump the pano-roof and save the weight for a more usable payload. Also look at the actual gain over the smaller fuel tank and look at the payload gain and whether it makes a difference to you. I tow what would be called heavy, and still get 200-250 between fill ups, but I only run that in a regular day of towing. But then again, I'm retired, drive at 55/60 when towing, and am in no hurry. Remember when adding options you lose load capacity.

 

[IvoryHemi]

While the MSRP is close for both trucks, the issue I’ve found is 1500’s have much steeper discounts/rebates than 2500. So in reality there is a bigger difference in actual price paid.

 

[IvoryHemi]

Downside is finding a gas 2500 with what you want unless you're open to ordering one.

I think ordering would be my only option either way. Seems impossible to find a Laramie with the 40/20/40 bench

 

[JJRamTX]

Lots of variables at play here...
1. Are you really 5 years out from a TT upgrade?
2. How long do you keep your vehicles for?
3. Own or Lease?
4. Daily driver comfort smoothness factor?

My first thought is that you would be happier and totally satisfied with a 1500 4x4 with 3.92 and Air Suspension. But then I would ask the above questions and based on answers you might be better off with a 2500 Hemi. Just my 2 cents

 

[jdefoe0424]

I think ordering would be my only option either way. Seems impossible to find a Laramie with the 40/20/40 bench

Indeed it is difficult, but they are out there. I lucked into finding a truck that was close enough that was within 30 minutes.
It does seem to have gotten harder with the reduced inventory due to COVID, they're probably being more picky with configs they're building to ensure they will sell quick to keep their numbers up.

 

[IvoryHemi]

Lots of variables at play here...
1. Are you really 5 years out from a TT upgrade?
2. How long do you keep your vehicles for?
3. Own or Lease?
4. Daily driver comfort smoothness factor?

My first thought is that you would be happier and totally satisfied with a 1500 4x4 with 3.92 and Air Suspension. But then I would ask the above questions and based on answers you might be better off with a 2500 Hemi. Just my 2 cents

Kids are still very young, both under 4 yo. So I imagine our current 31’ bunkhouse should last us at least 5 years. Own, not leased. Daily ride comfort isn’t a factor, my daily commute is 7 miles round trip.