I see negative comments on here about everything. First, I’m not brand loyal! These guys are trying to push the limits, ‘put the hammer down they say’! Come on, yes we all what to get to the top faster or what ever. But think about it, manufacturers rate the truck for safe, dependable, towing. All trucks are rated for what they can tow without overheating, without breaking, making it to your destination with no problems and for long life. Now a personal point, I will buy any truck, but for me as of now I’d buy the Ram. I don’t need to ‘hold’ a certain speed, I can do 35 mph vs 40, I don’t need to get to the top faster, yes this truck maybe struggled a little, but it made it to the top without overheating etc. And at the end of the video, if your using this truck in the mountains like they pushed it, you should get the 4:10 rear end vs the 3:73, just like they said. Also, it don’t matter WHAT truck you buy, if you tow at maximum tow rating your nuts for trying pushing a vehicle this hard all the time. Now, I can hardly wait for all the Ford, Chevy, and Ram guys coming back here and saying, ‘l do it all the time with my _________’ (name your vehicle)
that older 454 v8 still made comparable torque. the lower 230 HP rating just meant it would take longer to accelerate at full throttle (which is not how you should drive while towing, anyway). to be honest, I find that modern engines are pointlessly overpowered.
@@jaycardona3492 Having more power is great, and what do you mean overgeared? And overrated? A current half ton truck would easily out perform a 454 HD truck from 30 years ago and almost every way.
@@andrewmontgomery1763 this Ram sucks compared to the competitors. It has more power, more gears in tranny and rear end, is built Ram tough and still performs worse than a comparable Chevy with lower specs. They posted the 2500 Chevy it finished a minute faster.
@@andrewmontgomery1763 They're just circle jerking old engines. I love classic trucks as much as the next guy, but the fact my 5.0L F-150 makes almost 400hp is incredible and about double the old 5.0L Windsor made 20+ years ago. I would love to have a classic 1970's era Ford with a modern 5.0L or 7.3L Godzilla all the style of yesterday with the power of today.
@@techs1smh13 Just going of from the Chinese made wiring harness . They have high Iron content. Shorts are common after 02 and prolific after 08 . Maybe the new ones are better , idk ? I by old worn out junk , then I work it for another half decade and sell it for profit . But only a 100 bucks profit. I fix them with junk yard parts . Houses and land cost 50,000 + , not work trucks .
@@walliehart5975 I live in so cal and repair all kinds of equipment. I now have 4 Chevy's in my family and a fleet of Chevy vans in my co. From 03 to 2015 . Duramax and gassers. Shit ton of miles . Never had a wire harness issue . Yes a alternator water pump batteries brakes normal repairs.
Great video and very enlightening. The 6.4 Hemi & new 8-speed transmission did not perform as well as I had expected. I think a lot of people would enjoy another run with the 4.10 gears. Thanks for this excellent "real-world testing" video.
@CoyoteFTW, Why are you racing while towing. This is what gets me for people who are not towing professional. Speed speed speed that's all they mainly talk about. You should never be going trying to rush while towing. Meanwhile the mpg dropped out, the likelihood of an accident went up. And we then wonder why insurance cost so much on these trucks these days. Not to mention jb reviews shattered that Ford HD gas supremacy as did others when the ram 2500 6.4 kept up the same time as th 7.3 Ford but got better mpg despite driving longer.
Important information not mentioned. RAM trucks lists this particular truck, Ram 2500 6.4L 4x4 crew cab, as having a GCWR of 21,500 lbs. That means the total weight of the truck, trailer, occupants and cargo can not be more than 21,500 lbs. With a listed curb weight of 6785 and trailer of 14,300 your GCW is already 21,085. That leaves 415 lbs for people and stuff. That means... A) the two testers have maxed out the total allowable weight, probably exceeding it. B) you're not adding people, pets or cargo in the back seats. C) when maximum weights are involved, occupants and cargo are sacrificed. So do your research.
Always go with a 4.10 gear ratio when having to haul/ pull heavy loads . I have two Chevy's one with the 3.73 and the other with the 4.10 the 4.10 will walk off and leave the 3.73.
As someone who owns this truck with the exact same setup I can say the transmission needs tuned differently. I have just completed around 2000 miles of towing a 10,000 lb travel trailer going up and down even steeper grades albeit not as long and many times the transmission was slow to react. I never felt like I didn't have enough power and really feel the 4:10 would make a massive difference. Yukon just released the 4:30 gears and that is what I will be getting next month for my truck
@@djaftermath4313 Thanks, yes I need to do more walking. I killed a rattlesnake by the barn last night after it bit the kids dog. That gets me running around. Lost some weight last night. Rattlesnakes make me jump high.
After owning 15 gas trucks RVs cars .if going to tow 8k or above buy diesel. Unless u like 8 mpg maybe and like to listen to 5000 rpm plus. For many hrs .
The title says it all, and the Dodge was pulling almost 2,000 pounds less than the Ford and the Chevrolet. It certainly would have done better with a 4.10 but it had almost a ton weight advantage over the other 2 trucks. Just saying!
@@goomgoom5504 DEFINITELY, we better find out because so far I really like my 2019 Ram 1500 5.7L 4x4. The air suspension seems like an awesome way to go. I'm due for a new one in 2021 and want to get the best. For me the Ram 2019 1500 looks the best both inside and outside. Will have to see how they all look in 2021 I guess. I know they're talking about the 2500 but I'm thinking the same will apply to the 1500s.
Jim Robison The Ford n Chevy pulled more weight. The only thing Ram has going for them is Cummins. Ram will always be in 3rd place when it comes to trucks.
@@griznbeer ok, but in which aspects is Ford and Chevy best because the 2019 Ram 1500 was voted best truck of the year. And as far as interior and exterior I personally prefer the Ram.
people say this would have done better with a different rear end but if that’s the case then maybe Ram should not have rated it for that much towing in this exact configuration.
It pulled it just fine and out pulled the chevy...Not sure what your point even is. The 4.10 will just do it easier its a fact of life. That doesn't mean this truck wasn't capable of what they said.
Dan You’re right it did pull the weight. But it struggled greatly. Also at that weight if it had to do it regularly the ram wouldn’t do it long. 4:10 gears without a doubt would help but it’s not a game changer. I’ve had both 3:73 and 4:10 gears in previous pickups. It’s not a day and night difference as people think.
Dan The 6.4 is a great reliable powerful engine I just think it’s being held back at the transmission. The Ram may be a different animal with a trans tune.
truenewb very true, I suppose I was being clouded by how many people said that same thing but yeah the Ike is no joke especially for an N/A engine and clearly something needs done on that transmission.
I have a 6.4 Hemi in my Powerwagon. Mine pulls great. Weighed in and pulled a 12k lbs tag along trailer to P.A on the turnpike. That road has some pretty serious grades. I think mine does well because of the 6 speed and 4:10 gears. With an 8 speed I feel like you dont have enough power with a gas motor to hold a gear. With the gear spacing on the 6 speed it's a lot easier. Now I do have air bags on my truck witch helps but as a previous comment said if I was pulling on a regular basis I would own a diesel. Until someone turbocharges one of these gas engines and makes them more efficient they will never compete with a turbo diesel.
Question for you about your power wagon how were you able to tow 12k because I have the same truck and I was told I can only tow 8,000 lbs this is the reason why I want to trade it in for a 3500 for more towing ability
@@chronicles661 Do you have air bags? Also what kind of trailer are you towing. A good trailer properly loaded will pull better than a lighter badly loaded trailer. Also with a gasser you really have to be good at timing hills and when to make the truck downshift sense it does not have the torque as a diesel. If you keep your foot steady on the accelerator you will loose speed and it could become a pain. Also never use cruise towing expecially with a gasser. Just takes more finesse.
@@Jordan91alexander towing a 2021 keystone bullet travel trailer it’s about 7,500 lbs I want to upgrade to a 5th wheel travel trailer in the next couple of years I don’t think my power wagon will be able to pull it also the payload on my power wagon is only 1,400 lbs no air bags
If you're going to tow something like that the 4.10 gears would be a must for me. I don't foresee myself towing that much so a 3.73 would probably be good for me personally. Great test!
Glad I went with the Ford 7.3L after seeing this review. Coming from a ram, I'm all to familiar with having to put the transmission in manual mode to make it shift properly while towing. I was hoping the new 8 speed would have resolved this, guess not. Ford is the one to beat now.
@@daviddouglass7662 so how come tfl towed 14k plus and didn't need 1st? If you were in 1st like you say and have 4.10s, you would have been moving like 10 to 15 mph.
Agreed on the comments about varying trailer. Although the weight of this one is lower, it is 102" (or damn close to it) wide. The other horse trailer was the standard horse trailer width, in the 70-80" range. I have seen from personal experience this makes a decent difference in wind resistance, which impacts pulling and fuel mileage.
Having built a physics model for drawbar pull, speed, and horsepower requirement, you're dead on. Aero drag is a massive component, even on a steep grade.
This truck is on Craigslist now. Gently used, not even broke in, never above 40 mph... HOLY CRAP that Hemi is screaming. I'd have a flak jacket on in the front seat.
Jim Watson, I just had my ol 98 Silverado half ton at 4500 rpm trying to keep the 8 thousand pound camper between 65 and 70 and that’s in the flat lands of Iowa lol. I’ve always wondered what’s a safe and not so safe rpms to be running on gas pickups while pulling.
If you watch the RAM test engineers they take Hemi's off the shelf regularly and run them for 7,000 RPM for over 22 hours without stopping with no issues. That engine loves to rev.
@@kimojon9665 the problem on the Hemi isn't rpm, it's poor oiling at idle. I have towed a good bit with my 6.4, never been dissapointed. I'm 4.10 axle though not 3.73
Uphill towing seems like that transmission was hunting around some. I think Ram might want to consider a recalibration, or maybe that truck just needed to be driven more for "learning".
so i have a 2019 power wagon, essentially the same drive line as this truck, and there is surprisingly little engine braking available. you have to manually lock out higher gears to get any level of engine braking at all with trailers. ram or zf really needs to address this in the programming of the vehicle.
2019 bighorn here, I completely agree. I really like the ZF but the tow haul calibration should be the "normal" calibration and the "tow haul" should be much more aggressive.
@@blakegriffis3462 I have a 2017 8speed and the engine/trans braking is spectacular with or without a trailer it recognizes the slightest grade change and holds gears or down shifts beautifully, i think they neutered the newer trucks to operate more smoothly
@@youngblood23rb potentially so. Granted I still love my truck, but I've noticed the grade shifting isn't as aggressive as my old f150 in tow/haul. A simple tune/recalibration would fix this.
I hope the new 8 speed is an huge improvement in reliability over the POS 66RFE that's in my '15 Ram 2500. Mine needed the valve body replaced at 32,000 miles and had the transmission pan replaced a few weeks ago because it rusted through at 65,500 miles. Now it's making a bunch of different noises as I drive. I have the lifetime powertrain warranty....I hope it blows completely up so I can get complete new trans. I do have the 6.4L with 4:10 gears, it tows and plows great, never a lack in performance. The reliability is a different story.
for what the truck is, i think it handled itself well. it was the smallest engine of the big 3, 6.4 vs 6.6 and 7.3. came in second time wise, but it was only pulling 14,300 compared to the others 16,000. i think the thing thats needed most is the engine/transmission holding its speed, 14 break applications came in last vs the others but once thats corrected i think it can only get better.
The Ford was extremely impressive that was 16,000 pounds and they were backing out of the throttle to stay speed limit the Ram and GM were floored the entire time shifting up and down not able to gain speed the times weren't even close to the Ford rear gear wouldn't of mattered the other 2 could of ran a 488 gear and still get smoked
I think your downhill procedure is very fair and shows up weaknesses in the trucks programming. That being said I’d really like to know what a truck is truly capable of. For example if shifting manually means 2 or 3 brake applications vs 14 that would be great information to have.
Really like these Ike tests! I’m a Mopar guy, love my Rams! Air suspension rules, but you needed the 4.10 for this heavy load. High anticipation for the 2021 redesign - larger updated interior, improved tech, and did you say a 7.0 gas hemi??? Where’s my checkbook!!!
Only reason i bought a 19 ram was because of the cummins aisin and MAGAcab setup. Previously lemon lawed my 17 ram with aisin trans. If i was buying a gas truck it would be the ford.
I'm a ram guy, I thought it performed decent except downhill untill I found out it had 2k less on the trailer then the other brands.... wtf ram who sends a 373 gear truck to a ike??? And ram it's time to work on that down hill engine breaking
Right a 3:73, my power wagon has a 4:10 and pulls everything like a literal dream, my snowmobile trailer is about 27 feet long and had several thousand pounds in it and handled everything like a dream
Justin Krehlik's Adventures a 27 foot snowmobile trailer with 5 sleds and gear is maybe 7500 pounds. I hope that any full size pulls that like a dream. My F150 pulls a 29 with 5 sleds well.
Its less the engine more of the transmission tuning. It would not downshift ever. That's just bad tuning. When they did it manually or tricked the computer into downshifting, it gained speed. It would have done way better.
So glad to see the Hemi 6.4 on the Ike Gauntlet test! It did about as good as I thought it would as I have pretty much the same truck. I have found that you need to run Premium fuel in the Hemi at high altitudes (8,000+) and the engine braking is definitely lacking at those speeds. I use the manual gear limiting all the time, that's what it's for! Anyway, good job TFL!
@@joev8275 It is not about more pulling power, that is best described by using the Tow/Haul mode. In Tow/Haul mode, you get more RPMs per gear which gives more power longer, but fuel economy is slightly reduced. The gear limiting feature lets you use the transmission to set a maximum gear/speed while driving/towing downhill, or for increased fuel economy while towing on relatively flat roads (unnecessary automatic passing gear on slight inclines). It's similar to switching to manual on other trucks. While in Drive, the transmission is an automatic 8 speed. The gear limiting feature is located on the steering wheel. It is a set of up and down (+/-) buttons. While driving, or towing a load press the down button and a small display on the dash will show the maximum gear the truck is limited to. Pressing the down button repeatedly lowers to each subsequent maximum gear. If you are driving at 55 mph you can limit your gears to about 5th gear, which will limit your speed to the max of that gear using the engine and transmission, thus prohibiting the truck from shifting into the higher speed gears, which will cause the truck to gain speed while driving/coasting downhill. It is very handy on mountain passes and hills. It reduces the need for excessive braking. On long, steep, slower curved roads it works great to keep it at lower speeds such as 30 mph (2nd gear). When you no longer need limited gearing, you just press the up (+) button to get back to 8 gears and full automatic shifting. It's not as efficient as a diesel, but it works just fine for me.
I really appreciate your loaded tests. Brochure specs can always be impressive, but the real test is in the mountains. This is the time when ALL the components under the hood must work together to deliver the results. I urge to push this test even harder, HARDER! . . . Maybe do the gauntlet twice? Back-to-Back to test the endurance! (some people will hate you for doing this because you might overheat something or break something, and this could be embarassing.) You are the ONLY tester in the WORLD, and I mean you are the only authority, who is in the position to wring out the "No Question" Best of the Best.
As always, Ike Gauntlet w Mr Truck and Andre are spot on. I’m thinking about a heavy duty and gas engine. I don’t need tow capacity of a diesel. RAM especially in these specs looks awesome. Price wise is right. I’m not racing up the gauntlet either. I guess my 2 looks is this RAM and the Ford. I think the RAM wins since I’ll be mostly taking view from the drivers seat. Gentlemen, real deal and real world tests. Thanks for your input, it really does help when your debating brand and a TON of change to put down! TFL and Mr. Truck, your tests and opinions are much appreciated
The Ford's 4.3 rear end supports Ken's suggestion that the Ram with a 4.1 rear end would be a better match for the hemi with this type of usage and load.
You are getting more sophisticated with your videos. You are not just presenting linearly: you are breaking things up, presenting pertinent information when it is necessary, varying the "pace" of the information. Very nice.
Always been a Chevy guy until recently I traded in my Silverado for a ram 2500 mega cab with the 6.4 hemi and I don’t know why I didn’t make the switch much sooner. Love it! Way better truck. It makes my Silverado look like a baby truck lol
Great test as always, and love your stuff, but as several people have pointed out before each truck uses different tech and should be used accordingly. Without applying the cruise control on a Ram while in tow mode it does not actually slow the truck down while going down hill. If you set the cruise control it will automatically downshift and apply breaking as necessary. If you don't want to use the cruise, you * have * to use the manual settings to control it, otherwise the truck assumes you are not trying to control the speed in any way. That is how the truck is setup to work, but if they are used it works very well. =)
I had 2015 with the 6.4 and 4.10. it has no problem pulling a torque toy hauler fully loaded with 2 bikes and water. It weighed around 14k. On hills it struggled a little.
Dillon Horn Based off of the gross combination of the truck and trailer the Chevy moved more weight considering both were maxed out… Chevy has a gross combination of 24,000 the ram only has a rating of 21,500. That’s more like a difference of 2500!
Towed 9000lbs for 15 hours from New Brunswick to Barrie Ontario. The 2021 6.4 hemi 8spd I was towing with did great. The engine never went past 3500 rpm to maintain 100km/h even in the Canada applachiens. The truck stayed very stable towing the load, and had plenty enough stopping power. Unloaded the truck got near 20mpg on the highway. I would have a hard time justifying the new cummins with their extra expense, emissions crap, and failing lifters.
I’m buying me a 2018 LongHorn 3/4 ton Ram with the 6.4 HEMI. For me, it more than fits what I want, it can pull what I need, and can cruise nicely. I’m looking forward to this Ram
Yes, another run with the 4.10 gears would help it out. I say you guys do another standard run up and down. After that, I say do another run but manually shifting the transmission. Do it for all the makes. Because honestly, most drivers want control of their rigs in tense situations like this. I think its clear the transmission tune is not aggressive.
I had the one sales guy check it soon after I got them and he was gettin 16.5 mpg .... the most important thing to me was getting trucks that I didn’t have continuous issues with. These trucks have been fantastic .....coming from gm
Yes have a guy I work with buy a eco diesel , lots of problems. I love my rams as well drove cumins for years just tried of the diesel smell lol thanks
Thank you TFL for producing these great videos! Truck lovers and most trailer owners love to watch your analysis of all brands of pickups! I agree with the hordes of Mr Trucks fans that he is becoming a “stud” with that reduction in weight! Based on some of these comments that are “bashing” this truck’s ability to maintain speed up the I-70 gauntlet from Dillon to the Tunnel, I would like to add another perspective on why these tests do not reflect how most of us drive, but the tests stay true to max out the truck towing at max weights both up and down the mountain. My experience is probably more indicative of how folks towing with gas engines handle long climbs and descents. I have towed a 26 ft Airstream over the mountains out West based on my known truck’s abilities. Two years ago, my ‘09 F150 with 4.6L required a 35MPH - 45MPH up most of the mountain passes. Drawback on the transmission was I could only access 1 - 3 gears. 4-6 were lumped under “D”. Last month our ‘19 F250 gas, 4x2 went over Monarch Pass at 11,300 feet and we loved the manual option on the transmission. We stayed in a gear that would keep the RPM’s under 4,000 and did not care about our speed going up or down the mountain (downhill rarely used the brakes). Speeds were similar to the F150, but the new HD truck felt more comfortable. Truck lanes were used periodically. Three questions: 1. what percentage of time are you towing in those extreme mountain climbs and descents? If you spend a lot of time towing and in the mountains, then a diesel is a great investment in making the towing experience much easier. I spend less than 1% of my towing miles in the mountains, and am perfectly fine with slowing down and enjoying the scenery. 2. For TFL - I believe the RAM’s information screen provided temperatures for oil, coolant and transmission fluids on one screen? My F250 only provides transmission temperature? It seems obvious that in Heavy Duty pickup that may see a lot of heavy towing, that ALL OEM’s should provide these three temperatures for operating fluids? Have you asked the other OEM’s why they cannot provide sensors in these fluid for us to monitor during rigorous use of our trucks? 3. For TFL - when will you test the Tundra Extra cab at it’s max tow weight? Reason I ask is that on Airstream Forums, folks new to Airstream regularly ask which tow vehicle is best for a given length Airstream I am planning to purchase. Many responders jump into the discussion by informing all of us that they tow up to 30 foot Airstreams all over the country including the Mountains out West. They tout the million mile tundra’s that are reliable, durable and obviously cost effective! However, they rarely discuss the truck’s ability to tow the max weight and maintain manufacturer’s specs for payload (most Tundra’s have 1400 lbs or less payload), Gross combined vehicle weight, rear axles, etc. When I emailed TFL, about testing Tundras you mentioned that they had not changed since your last test many years ago. Plus, TFL could address the safety issues for any tow vehicle, when towing over payload, and the other specs and the impact of Tundra’s brakes on safe travel? Questionable OEM claims on half ton pickups - During last month’s 5,000 mile towing journey, I met a fellow traveler at KOA in Albuquerque, who was new to towing, who provided his rationale for purchasing his half ton pickup. This is what he said; “the salesman said it would tow over 12,000 pounds”! He had a 22 foot Coleman since his wife was willing to finally go camping. As so often happens, he informed me that after spending two weeks with a Murphy bed, his wife wanted a longer trailer with a permanent bed! What a challenge for a half ton pickup to continually support this desire for more living space in a longer trailer!
I have a f250 6.0 powerstroke, bulletpropfed, 257,000 miles, 4:10 gears, Detroit lockers. Pulled a 14,200 triple axle travel trailer toy hauler. Pulled that same hill, I was able to keep 40-45mph. Gearing makes a huge difference. A strong headwind would bring me to 35mph floored, but it pulled it all the way through no problem.
Anyone else notice that the GEN-Y hitch seemed to be fully compressed everytime they showed it. How is it gonna work to soften the bumps (trailer to vehicle) if it is always fully compressed? Even when they were showing it not hooked up, it looked fully compressed.
I always wondered about the 6.4. I'm really glad I bought the Cummins. The Cummins has about double the torque compared to the Hemi. The Cummins pulls like a dream. I pull a 9600 lbs 5th wheel. It never drops below 60 mph and stays in 5th gear @ 2000 rpm more or less on steep grades. Going downhill I never need brakes unless it's you cum up on sharp curves. It sometimes shifts to third gear on curvy hill and goes up to 2800 rpm and really slows down with compression brake on. Thanks for the video as it demonstrates the superiority of the diesel when towing.
Honestly I think a recalibration of the tow/haul programming to be more aggressive would make a world of difference. I seems like the transmission up shifted several times dropping the rpms to 3kish and struggling, when it was accelerating at 4kish.
Been towing a 5000lb camper all over the country with my 2011 5.3 Silverado 1500. The engine went last week at 185000 miles. I'm all too used ti hearing that screaming engine with high rpms. Can't afford it at the moment but a Cummins is in my near future along with bigger rv. Great vidz guys.
The 5.3L was a gutless turd until 2014 and even then its remained at the same out since then, so its behind every other comparable V8 in its class, I think your 2011 barely made over 310hp and only about 330lb/ft of torque. Those old 5.3L's are okay for day to driving and light hauling, but they aren't work truck engines, their figures are also high in the rev range so they have to be wrung out real hard to get to their paltry numbers.
@@nathanmcdonald610 i dont post videos but on my page I posted a short clip of the sound it's making. I just sold it for 5k to guy down the road. He already tore the motor apart and sent me pictures. The cam and lifters are bad.
I know you guys are running competitions but it would be nice to see what the trucks can do when you use everything the truck has to offer. Like gear limiters going down hill and controlling the gas pedal to get the most out of the uphill climb. Maybe you could do two test. One where the truck computer does the work and the other where the driver actually controls the truck to the best of their skill.
4.10s apparently is a must for heavy towing with this engine transmission combo. I would also manually lock out the higher gears on the climb. It accelerated on the grade every time it downshifted so they should have locked in whatever gear that was. I understand that this was a test though.
As one of the guys said below it would be great to see you guys do a video with a 1990s or 2000s model trucks till now and the differences between then and now!! I would love to see the data!! 💯👍
@junkey55 meh ive been running motors wide open in boats for a while now, definitely a little pucker thing at first but they just keep spinning 4800-5500 lol not to say I dont change the oil very often. And if I owned a gasser like that dodge it would probably get changed as soon as I got home from a trip
Engineers are pretty meticulous when it comes to setting redline limits. I wouldn't worry about it unless you kept it at that RPM for an extended period of time.
kunu98 You’ve got to spin naturally aspirated gas V8s to make any power, especially at altitude. If you want low rpm operation you need forced induction. This engine makes about 250 HP at 10000 ft asl.
Doesn’t bother them. The Vortecs before AFM could bounce on the rev limiter and still give you 150,000 miles of service. Ford’s 5.0 in the F-150 has cast iron exhaust manifolds and a lower redline (compared to the Mustang) because they intend for it to operate at high RPMs for an extended period of time.
So the Ram beat the Chevy because it did the uphill run 30 seconds faster, with a 1700 lb lighter load and even with the lighter load, took 4 more break applications than the Chevy. Yeah, that makes total sense.
Ummm. I’ve done the math like five different ways but I don’t own a Chevy calculator... it beat it by 1:24.......... Obviously the engineers need to work out the shifting pattern for down hill but it’s the first year and there’s always quirks to work out. That’s the point of these tests. Not knocking your opinion, just your math.
An updated version with a 2022 and 4.10 gears would be nice. The Ford has 4.30 ring gear ! And the Ram has a feature on the steering wheel to let you lock it in a lower a gear. As well as Manually shift If I understand it correctly.
It’s pretty obvious the best thing about the Ram is the Air Ride. 2000 pounds more tow capacity for Chevy and Ford. Kudos for some of the technology but pulling is what this is about. no question Gold Hitch goes to the Ford. Can you imagine if they were to put in air bags for all the big trucks. Ram, back to the drawing board.
Then don’t buy a sunroof on your ford if that’s your only concern. Ram is coming up in the world but still has a ways to go. Willing to bet there not going to make much change beyond where they are today. Love my Ford, and yes they need to up the interiors in their trucks a bit. I think the new preview of the bronco shows where they are headed.
Most pick ups go onto the dealer lots with either a compromise rear end ratio or one suitable for unloaded highway use. Years ago I was told by a salesman that I was nuts when I told him I wanted a truck speced with a two speed rear end (1 1/2 ton rear). He said it would void the warranty if I ran it in 4x4 with mismatched diff ratios, I told him I wouldn't do that because I know how much a tranny, transfer box, diffs would cost to repair if you did that.
Use cruise control! That tells the truck the speed you want to maintain and it will downshift automatically to help maintain that speed, especially with tow/haul mode. If you are doing everything manually, then any bad results are the fault of the driver, not the truck. Also, not a good display of your hitch. The way its mounted provides NO suspension. It didn't flex at all. Bad hitch, or it was mounted upside down. Torsion suspension should be at max extension unweighted and then flex a bit when under weight, for the shock absorbtion. Review your connection video.
Shouldn't letting off the gas tell the truck that you don't want to go any faster? I think they forgot to code that into this trucks computer because other trucks will start engine braking on an incline as soon as throttle is reduced.
That rear spoiler is great for keeping the back of trailer clean so I don’t know if that’s the reason that did that or just too make it look cooler and it helps to keep the carbon dioxide fumes from sneaking into the inside of trailer. Bak years ago they put them on station wagons and some had the spoiler on the sides of rear or across the top .
That's the new "Low-Profile Pegasus" It's labeled Spartan, because it was the first one and got the wrong decal. Geny goes 4 more inches into the trailer stem for tall trucks. The movement of the Torsion Hitch is up. So it shouldn't got down any farther.
When they gave the advice to manually shift when pulling in mountains they’re giving solid advice. I have a truck that is almost identical and you definitely want to do manual shift.
I think it would be awesome if Ram would bring back and update the 8.0 V-10 and mate it with the the current ZF 8HP75 transmission it was be an awesome combination.
My 98 12V cummins towed 11,500lbs in overdrive at 70mph through a mountain pass no problem. Didn’t even need to downshift. Granted, it had a few goodies and half the elevation but it didn’t need to go over 2000 rpm.
The company I work for had a 6.4L 3500 and went through two engines. 2 1/2 hour trip every day, every three days needed filled up with fuel. 150000 kms and truck was sent away. Reccomend a diesel in these 1 ton trucks.
@Joshua Jerome the only time I would buy a diesel is for towing long term or in mountains, otherwise gas is the logical choice for cost. Gas engines have all the power and torque needed for the average person.
Hope you guys used mid grade fuel. The owners Manuel calls for it when towing regular or very heavy to prevent knocking. Might be why the last 6.4hemi you reviewed was trying to “preserve” itself
You guys should do the best budget towing truck. 4x4 crew, 2500lbs+ payload, 10,000lbs towing, under $40,000. I don’t care if it’s 1/2 ton or 3/4 ton, V8, V6. This is all the truck 95% of people would ever really need. I love the 1 ton dually diesel videos, but I don’t ever need to gooseneck 30,000lbs. I would like to take the family camping with a 8,000lbs travel trailer though.
LR R they signed off that it can tow with that ratio. They didn’t say how efficient or effective it would be versus the 4.10. The 4.10 would be a better combo vs the 3.73 in the mountains.
LR R I never said it couldn’t pull it. Just stating 4.10s would’ve pulled the load a little bit faster and easier up the ike and probably good for a few less brake applications on the way down over the 3.73 gears. Can’t wait for them to test the powerwagon 8 speed up the Ike and compare it to the old 6 speed pw
Had the same issue in the 2020 Ram 1500 HEMI towing 8,000lbs. Tow mode didn't adapt - I had to use manual Gear select to moderate up and downhill. PS I'm shocked I-70 at Eisenhower wasn't bumper-to-bumper
I don't see that motor lasting long running that kind of rpm for extended periods. I was considering buying one, but I really think they (Fiat/Chrysler) should have tuned it for more mid rpm torque, and less top end horsepower.
Reminds me of the 2014 RAM 2500 with the 6.4 that TFL tested and it really crawled up the Ike. This new transmission did better but it still seemed way out of breath and the downshifts spiked the rpm way up and would quickly lose steam. Seems like FCA needs to re-tune this engine for more low end torque and less high rpm horsepower numbers.
Would love to see runs down the mountain with cruise set at 60 and see what the trucks do to attempt to maintain speed. With all the programming for fuel efficiency I think they want the trucks to coast as much as possible unless you tell the truck what you’re trying to do (cruise control) or manual shifting
I drive a Ram with those mirrors as a daily driver and they never get flipped in. Visibility is a lot better while they are out and it is a PITA to set them back up when you change their position.
As always, great test and video gentlemen. Especially for those of us living in the Mountain West. These tests provide a more realistic towing capacity for trucks in my area.
No one going down hill will ever let it shift by itself, always run in manual. Always go down hill in the same gear you went up the hill maybe even down one gear depending on how much weight you’re towing. And I guarantee your temps were higher when your fan was on cause it won’t come on till about 220 and I’ve been as high as 270 on my oil temp in my 2018 ram!
When people say man that motor is screaming.....its a gas motor its supposed to kick down.let it do its thing,you won't hurt it...and by the way I'm not knocking the diesel at all but the epa has killed the dieses
I agree that Dylan up to the Eisenhower tunnel is one of the toughest climbs there is, however, I believe there’s a tougher climb on the same road. Golden to Dylan is an hour drive and stresses your vehicle more. it’s well known by Denver mechanics if you want to test the vehicle make this drive on a summer day. If your vehicle is about to break down this drive will make it happen.
I see negative comments on here about everything. First, I’m not brand loyal! These guys are trying to push the limits, ‘put the hammer down they say’! Come on, yes we all what to get to the top faster or what ever. But think about it, manufacturers rate the truck for safe, dependable, towing. All trucks are rated for what they can tow without overheating, without breaking, making it to your destination with no problems and for long life. Now a personal point, I will buy any truck, but for me as of now I’d buy the Ram. I don’t need to ‘hold’ a certain speed, I can do 35 mph vs 40, I don’t need to get to the top faster, yes this truck maybe struggled a little, but it made it to the top without overheating etc. And at the end of the video, if your using this truck in the mountains like they pushed it, you should get the 4:10 rear end vs the 3:73, just like they said. Also, it don’t matter WHAT truck you buy, if you tow at maximum tow rating your nuts for trying pushing a vehicle this hard all the time. Now, I can hardly wait for all the Ford, Chevy, and Ram guys coming back here and saying, ‘l do it all the time with my _________’ (name your vehicle)
Remember when a 454ci only put out 230 horse power and was mated to a 4 speed. How did we ever manage? I’d rock that 6.4 in a heart beat.
that older 454 v8 still made comparable torque. the lower 230 HP rating just meant it would take longer to accelerate at full throttle (which is not how you should drive while towing, anyway).
to be honest, I find that modern engines are pointlessly overpowered.
@@dudejo overpower, over geared, over rated and still suck lol
@@jaycardona3492 Having more power is great, and what do you mean overgeared? And overrated? A current half ton truck would easily out perform a 454 HD truck from 30 years ago and almost every way.
@@andrewmontgomery1763 this Ram sucks compared to the competitors. It has more power, more gears in tranny and rear end, is built Ram tough and still performs worse than a comparable Chevy with lower specs. They posted the 2500 Chevy it finished a minute faster.
@@andrewmontgomery1763 They're just circle jerking old engines. I love classic trucks as much as the next guy, but the fact my 5.0L F-150 makes almost 400hp is incredible and about double the old 5.0L Windsor made 20+ years ago. I would love to have a classic 1970's era Ford with a modern 5.0L or 7.3L Godzilla all the style of yesterday with the power of today.
If I'm towing more than 10k up and down steep hills in the mountains on a regular basis I'm just buying a diesel and being done with it.
Ya , especially if you want a Ram. That 7.3 Ford looks good though, especially if your not towing every day. The GM has electric issues to soon
@@walliehart5975 what electrical issue are they having
@@techs1smh13 Just going of from the Chinese made wiring harness . They have high Iron content. Shorts are common after 02 and prolific after 08 . Maybe the new ones are better , idk ? I by old worn out junk , then I work it for another half decade and sell it for profit . But only a 100 bucks profit. I fix them with junk yard parts . Houses and land cost 50,000 + , not work trucks .
I agree if I am towing like that on a regular basis I would buy a diesel regardless of brand.
@@walliehart5975 I live in so cal and repair all kinds of equipment. I now have 4 Chevy's in my family and a fleet of Chevy vans in my co. From 03 to 2015 . Duramax and gassers. Shit ton of miles . Never had a wire harness issue . Yes a alternator water pump batteries brakes normal repairs.
Great video and very enlightening. The 6.4 Hemi & new 8-speed transmission did not perform as well as I had expected. I think a lot of people would enjoy another run with the 4.10 gears. Thanks for this excellent "real-world testing" video.
4.10 would make a big difference
Yes, let’s see how the truck performs with 4.10s!
Not going anything under 10 minutes. The Ford owns the heavy duty gas segment. By far
@@CoyoteFTWlook at that difference in mpg though
@CoyoteFTW,
Why are you racing while towing. This is what gets me for people who are not towing professional. Speed speed speed that's all they mainly talk about. You should never be going trying to rush while towing. Meanwhile the mpg dropped out, the likelihood of an accident went up. And we then wonder why insurance cost so much on these trucks these days.
Not to mention jb reviews shattered that Ford HD gas supremacy as did others when the ram 2500 6.4 kept up the same time as th 7.3 Ford but got better mpg despite driving longer.
0:20 watch those hands buddy. Even while he was driving Roman's hands were waving. Someone been watching too much of Scotty's channel lol
** Andre
Important information not mentioned.
RAM trucks lists this particular truck, Ram 2500 6.4L 4x4 crew cab, as having a GCWR of 21,500 lbs. That means the total weight of the truck, trailer, occupants and cargo can not be more than 21,500 lbs.
With a listed curb weight of 6785 and trailer of 14,300 your GCW is already 21,085. That leaves 415 lbs for people and stuff.
That means...
A) the two testers have maxed out the total allowable weight, probably exceeding it.
B) you're not adding people, pets or cargo in the back seats.
C) when maximum weights are involved, occupants and cargo are sacrificed. So do your research.
Don't 5th wheel trailers typically have 20% tongue weight? If so, that's 2860lbs of payload, not including people. It was overloaded, get a 1 ton.
These guys are clowns.
Always go with a 4.10 gear ratio when having to haul/ pull heavy loads . I have two Chevy's one with the 3.73 and the other with the 4.10 the 4.10 will walk off and leave the 3.73.
The 4.10's have not been available for quite some time now so there isn't much today's consumer can do with this information.
@@k.c.wingert7179I had to special order mine. They're rare but I get the feeling lots of people with diesel 2500s are towing over payload.
I keep my Ram 1500 with 5.7 and 3.92s in manual shift mode the entire time when I'm pulling my 32' camper and it does really well up and downhill
That's my favorite combo in a 1/2 ton truck!
As someone who owns this truck with the exact same setup I can say the transmission needs tuned differently. I have just completed around 2000 miles of towing a 10,000 lb travel trailer going up and down even steeper grades albeit not as long and many times the transmission was slow to react. I never felt like I didn't have enough power and really feel the 4:10 would make a massive difference. Yukon just released the 4:30 gears and that is what I will be getting next month for my truck
And whos gonna tune your transmission for the 4:30's..?? You will need a tune unless you want to manually shift it yourself forever..
Mr truck looks like he’s lost some weight. Keep it up brother!
Thanks, I lost some but I think I found it again
@@MrTruckTV It's happened to us all Mr. Truck, especially during these times.
@@djaftermath4313 Thanks, yes I need to do more walking. I killed a rattlesnake by the barn last night after it bit the kids dog. That gets me running around. Lost some weight last night. Rattlesnakes make me jump high.
Appears the lost weight from Mr. Truck, was found by Andre....
@@TheMinnow101 Oh man Andre is an athlete compared to me
Think I'll stick to my Cummins. No drama going down or up the steep grades.
Well yah, a diesel is obviously going to be better for this task ... duh 😁
Yeah diesel wouldn't even notice
No kidding. And you don't need a new Cummins either.
After owning 15 gas trucks RVs cars .if going to tow 8k or above buy diesel. Unless u like 8 mpg maybe and like to listen to 5000 rpm plus. For many hrs .
@@techs1smh13 🤣🤣🤣
Wow Ken lost some weight , good job
Andre took it..lol
Thats what I was thinking! Stay healthy buddy
Well thanks, I lost 29 lbs in the big move to the country but I'm gaining it back. I guess I'll have to lift a hundred boxes into my trailer again.
Me. Truck looks so much younger
The title says it all, and the Dodge was pulling almost 2,000 pounds less than the Ford and the Chevrolet. It certainly would have done better with a 4.10 but it had almost a ton weight advantage over the other 2 trucks. Just saying!
wasn’t it the other way around? they towed 2,000 more with the Ram did they not? Maybe I got it wrong.
@@goomgoom5504 That's what Jim said.
@@goomgoom5504 DEFINITELY, we better find out because so far I really like my 2019 Ram 1500 5.7L 4x4. The air suspension seems like an awesome way to go. I'm due for a new one in 2021 and want to get the best. For me the Ram 2019 1500 looks the best both inside and outside. Will have to see how they all look in 2021 I guess. I know they're talking about the 2500 but I'm thinking the same will apply to the 1500s.
Jim Robison The Ford n Chevy pulled more weight. The only thing Ram has going for them is Cummins. Ram will always be in 3rd place when it comes to trucks.
@@griznbeer ok, but in which aspects is Ford and Chevy best because the 2019 Ram 1500 was voted best truck of the year. And as far as interior and exterior I personally prefer the Ram.
people say this would have done better with a different rear end but if that’s the case then maybe Ram should not have rated it for that much towing in this exact configuration.
Yes exactly! There will always be excuses.
It pulled it just fine and out pulled the chevy...Not sure what your point even is. The 4.10 will just do it easier its a fact of life. That doesn't mean this truck wasn't capable of what they said.
Dan You’re right it did pull the weight. But it struggled greatly. Also at that weight if it had to do it regularly the ram wouldn’t do it long. 4:10 gears without a doubt would help but it’s not a game changer. I’ve had both 3:73 and 4:10 gears in previous pickups. It’s not a day and night difference as people think.
Dan The 6.4 is a great reliable powerful engine I just think it’s being held back at the transmission. The Ram may be a different animal with a trans tune.
truenewb very true, I suppose I was being clouded by how many people said that same thing but yeah the Ike is no joke especially for an N/A engine and clearly something needs done on that transmission.
I have a 6.4 Hemi in my Powerwagon. Mine pulls great. Weighed in and pulled a 12k lbs tag along trailer to P.A on the turnpike. That road has some pretty serious grades. I think mine does well because of the 6 speed and 4:10 gears. With an 8 speed I feel like you dont have enough power with a gas motor to hold a gear. With the gear spacing on the 6 speed it's a lot easier. Now I do have air bags on my truck witch helps but as a previous comment said if I was pulling on a regular basis I would own a diesel. Until someone turbocharges one of these gas engines and makes them more efficient they will never compete with a turbo diesel.
Question for you about your power wagon how were you able to tow 12k because I have the same truck and I was told I can only tow 8,000 lbs this is the reason why I want to trade it in for a 3500 for more towing ability
@@chronicles661 Do you have air bags? Also what kind of trailer are you towing. A good trailer properly loaded will pull better than a lighter badly loaded trailer.
Also with a gasser you really have to be good at timing hills and when to make the truck downshift sense it does not have the torque as a diesel. If you keep your foot steady on the accelerator you will loose speed and it could become a pain. Also never use cruise towing expecially with a gasser. Just takes more finesse.
@@Jordan91alexander towing a 2021 keystone bullet travel trailer it’s about 7,500 lbs I want to upgrade to a 5th wheel travel trailer in the next couple of years I don’t think my power wagon will be able to pull it also the payload on my power wagon is only 1,400 lbs no air bags
If you're going to tow something like that the 4.10 gears would be a must for me. I don't foresee myself towing that much so a 3.73 would probably be good for me personally. Great test!
What if you tow maybe 10k max every 2 weeks for 1 hr and put 2500 on the bed every other week for no more than 1 hr?
@@achebe171 3.73 would be fine if your not heading up the ike gauntlet lol
Looks like Kent has lost some weight! Good for him!
Thanks, but I found it
yea, he looks much thinner, good job Mr. Truck
@@logdon17 Thanks, now I'm going to have to go to a CAT scales and find out.
@@MrTruckTV lol. Na, you're a gentleman and a scholar my good sir
Half of it is the beard haha
Glad I went with the Ford 7.3L after seeing this review.
Coming from a ram, I'm all to familiar with having to put the transmission in manual mode to make it shift properly while towing. I was hoping the new 8 speed would have resolved this, guess not.
Ford is the one to beat now.
@HalfShell no, not if the transmission is properly programmed.
There is nothing wrong with the truck. It isn't set up for max tow. It needs the 4:10 ratio. 4:10 is rated for 16900lbs.
@@gasolinediesel972 Have a Ram with 6.4l Hemi and 4:10 rear. Just did Ike Gauntlet pulling 12,000 lb. Needed 1st gear and 5,000 rpm most of the way.
@@daviddouglass7662 Wow.
@@daviddouglass7662 so how come tfl towed 14k plus and didn't need 1st? If you were in 1st like you say and have 4.10s, you would have been moving like 10 to 15 mph.
Finally a TFL signature video please do more of these
Agreed on the comments about varying trailer. Although the weight of this one is lower, it is 102" (or damn close to it) wide. The other horse trailer was the standard horse trailer width, in the 70-80" range. I have seen from personal experience this makes a decent difference in wind resistance, which impacts pulling and fuel mileage.
Having built a physics model for drawbar pull, speed, and horsepower requirement, you're dead on. Aero drag is a massive component, even on a steep grade.
This truck is on Craigslist now. Gently used, not even broke in, never above 40 mph...
HOLY CRAP that Hemi is screaming. I'd have a flak jacket on in the front seat.
Jim Watson, I just had my ol 98 Silverado half ton at 4500 rpm trying to keep the 8 thousand pound camper between 65 and 70 and that’s in the flat lands of Iowa lol. I’ve always wondered what’s a safe and not so safe rpms to be running on gas pickups while pulling.
If you watch the RAM test engineers they take Hemi's off the shelf regularly and run them for 7,000 RPM for over 22 hours without stopping with no issues. That engine loves to rev.
@@kimojon9665 now if they would just retune the ecm in their trucks for us and let that 6.4 eat, these test results would be alot different.
@@kimojon9665 the problem on the Hemi isn't rpm, it's poor oiling at idle.
I have towed a good bit with my 6.4, never been dissapointed. I'm 4.10 axle though not 3.73
Uphill towing seems like that transmission was hunting around some. I think Ram might want to consider a recalibration, or maybe that truck just needed to be driven more for "learning".
so i have a 2019 power wagon, essentially the same drive line as this truck, and there is surprisingly little engine braking available. you have to manually lock out higher gears to get any level of engine braking at all with trailers. ram or zf really needs to address this in the programming of the vehicle.
2019 bighorn here, I completely agree. I really like the ZF but the tow haul calibration should be the "normal" calibration and the "tow haul" should be much more aggressive.
@@blakegriffis3462 I have a 2017 8speed and the engine/trans braking is spectacular with or without a trailer it recognizes the slightest grade change and holds gears or down shifts beautifully, i think they neutered the newer trucks to operate more smoothly
@@youngblood23rb potentially so. Granted I still love my truck, but I've noticed the grade shifting isn't as aggressive as my old f150 in tow/haul. A simple tune/recalibration would fix this.
All I will say is my F-150 had way better engine braking than this
I hope the new 8 speed is an huge improvement in reliability over the POS 66RFE that's in my '15 Ram 2500. Mine needed the valve body replaced at 32,000 miles and had the transmission pan replaced a few weeks ago because it rusted through at 65,500 miles. Now it's making a bunch of different noises as I drive. I have the lifetime powertrain warranty....I hope it blows completely up so I can get complete new trans.
I do have the 6.4L with 4:10 gears, it tows and plows great, never a lack in performance. The reliability is a different story.
I had the 6.4L Hemi. It loves to run in the 4000-5200 rpm range for towing. I loved it with the 6 speed. I could tow anything I ever wanted to
Been looking at a 2014 ram 3500 with the 6.4 for towing a 10k fifth wheel. Would you recommend it for that?
@@FALLEN9336 my dad has one he uses for work towing a 10k dump trailer loaded 90% of the time. And it pulls without issue
And according to ram they designed it to run below 3500rpm to tow. They say it's a heavy duty tow engine....
@@jacobstrutner8232 it will not run at that low rpm. Towing it wants to scream. But will tow anything you want
for what the truck is, i think it handled itself well. it was the smallest engine of the big 3, 6.4 vs 6.6 and 7.3. came in second time wise, but it was only pulling 14,300 compared to the others 16,000. i think the thing thats needed most is the engine/transmission holding its speed, 14 break applications came in last vs the others but once thats corrected i think it can only get better.
The Ford was extremely impressive that was 16,000 pounds and they were backing out of the throttle to stay speed limit the Ram and GM were floored the entire time shifting up and down not able to gain speed the times weren't even close to the Ford rear gear wouldn't of mattered the other 2 could of ran a 488 gear and still get smoked
I think your downhill procedure is very fair and shows up weaknesses in the trucks programming. That being said I’d really like to know what a truck is truly capable of. For example if shifting manually means 2 or 3 brake applications vs 14 that would be great information to have.
Just bring back the MANUAL STANDARD TRANSMISSION ALREADY!!!!!!!
I pulled 9100 lbs over rockies with 6.4 Ram, 9.7 mpg. No issues towing or braking. Socal to Denver and back. Only wish it had 10 speed transmission
Really like these Ike tests! I’m a Mopar guy, love my Rams! Air suspension rules, but you needed the 4.10 for this heavy load. High anticipation for the 2021 redesign - larger updated interior, improved tech, and did you say a 7.0 gas hemi??? Where’s my checkbook!!!
Only reason i bought a 19 ram was because of the cummins aisin and MAGAcab setup. Previously lemon lawed my 17 ram with aisin trans.
If i was buying a gas truck it would be the ford.
Love the classic Ike gauntlet intro music!!!!
Thank you Mr. Truck for joining TFL once again.
you're welcome, it's fun
I'm a ram guy, I thought it performed decent except downhill untill I found out it had 2k less on the trailer then the other brands.... wtf ram who sends a 373 gear truck to a ike??? And ram it's time to work on that down hill engine breaking
Right a 3:73, my power wagon has a 4:10 and pulls everything like a literal dream, my snowmobile trailer is about 27 feet long and had several thousand pounds in it and handled everything like a dream
Ram didn’t send it I think- TFL bought it?
Justin Krehlik's Adventures a 27 foot snowmobile trailer with 5 sleds and gear is maybe 7500 pounds. I hope that any full size pulls that like a dream. My F150 pulls a 29 with 5 sleds well.
RAM wants you to spend money on the diesel.
Its less the engine more of the transmission tuning. It would not downshift ever. That's just bad tuning. When they did it manually or tricked the computer into downshifting, it gained speed. It would have done way better.
My 2016 1500 has the same problem of not down shifting if left in auto. Manually down shifting drastically helps in the mountains.
So glad to see the Hemi 6.4 on the Ike Gauntlet test! It did about as good as I thought it would as I have pretty much the same truck. I have found that you need to run Premium fuel in the Hemi at high altitudes (8,000+) and the engine braking is definitely lacking at those speeds. I use the manual gear limiting all the time, that's what it's for! Anyway, good job TFL!
How do you use the gear limiting feature? Is it to make sure to keep RPMs low for more pulling power?
@@joev8275 It is not about more pulling power, that is best described by using the Tow/Haul mode. In Tow/Haul mode, you get more RPMs per gear which gives more power longer, but fuel economy is slightly reduced.
The gear limiting feature lets you use the transmission to set a maximum gear/speed while driving/towing downhill, or for increased fuel economy while towing on relatively flat roads (unnecessary automatic passing gear on slight inclines). It's similar to switching to manual on other trucks.
While in Drive, the transmission is an automatic 8 speed. The gear limiting feature is located on the steering wheel. It is a set of up and down (+/-) buttons. While driving, or towing a load press the down button and a small display on the dash will show the maximum gear the truck is limited to. Pressing the down button repeatedly lowers to each subsequent maximum gear. If you are driving at 55 mph you can limit your gears to about 5th gear, which will limit your speed to the max of that gear using the engine and transmission, thus prohibiting the truck from shifting into the higher speed gears, which will cause the truck to gain speed while driving/coasting downhill. It is very handy on mountain passes and hills. It reduces the need for excessive braking. On long, steep, slower curved roads it works great to keep it at lower speeds such as 30 mph (2nd gear). When you no longer need limited gearing, you just press the up (+) button to get back to 8 gears and full automatic shifting. It's not as efficient as a diesel, but it works just fine for me.
@@mrblueskynm3968 thank you for the very detailed explanation
I really appreciate your loaded tests.
Brochure specs can always be impressive, but the real test is in the mountains. This is the time when ALL the components under the hood must work together to deliver the results. I urge to push this test even harder, HARDER! . . . Maybe do the gauntlet twice? Back-to-Back to test the endurance! (some people will hate you for doing this because you might overheat something or break something, and this could be embarassing.)
You are the ONLY tester in the WORLD, and I mean you are the only authority, who is in the position to wring out the "No Question" Best of the Best.
These are great. I would love to see these guy take a 90s or 2000 gas hd up with its max weight and get a comparison from then to now.
Agree
YES!!!!
454s and 460s will need a gas station on the way up lol
2000 chevy 5.7 vortec
then compare the price the difference would buy alot of fuel
As always, Ike Gauntlet w Mr Truck and Andre are spot on. I’m thinking about a heavy duty and gas engine. I don’t need tow capacity of a diesel. RAM especially in these specs looks awesome. Price wise is right. I’m not racing up the gauntlet either. I guess my 2 looks is this RAM and the Ford. I think the RAM wins since I’ll be mostly taking view from the drivers seat.
Gentlemen, real deal and real world tests. Thanks for your input, it really does help when your debating brand and a TON of change to put down! TFL and Mr. Truck, your tests and opinions are much appreciated
Been waiting for this tow test!!! Thanks for the upload André and Mr. Truck!!!
You're welcome
The Ford's 4.3 rear end supports Ken's suggestion that the Ram with a 4.1 rear end would be a better match for the hemi with this type of usage and load.
Why rj?
@@JD-qx6qw Ford's being a silly and punishing TFL for having "insider info" on their products.
Ram signed off that the truck can pull that weight with that ratio. You saying they are incorrect and should lower the weight for that ratio?
@@lrr5586 Yep, the Ford and Chevy were pulling 2000 pounds more as well.
agreed.
You are getting more sophisticated with your videos. You are not just presenting linearly: you are breaking things up, presenting pertinent information when it is necessary, varying the "pace" of the information. Very nice.
Was the highlight of the reel, for sure!
Always been a Chevy guy until recently I traded in my Silverado for a ram 2500 mega cab with the 6.4 hemi and I don’t know why I didn’t make the switch much sooner. Love it! Way better truck. It makes my Silverado look like a baby truck lol
Great test as always, and love your stuff, but as several people have pointed out before each truck uses different tech and should be used accordingly. Without applying the cruise control on a Ram while in tow mode it does not actually slow the truck down while going down hill. If you set the cruise control it will automatically downshift and apply breaking as necessary. If you don't want to use the cruise, you * have * to use the manual settings to control it, otherwise the truck assumes you are not trying to control the speed in any way. That is how the truck is setup to work, but if they are used it works very well. =)
I had 2015 with the 6.4 and 4.10. it has no problem pulling a torque toy hauler fully loaded with 2 bikes and water. It weighed around 14k. On hills it struggled a little.
From what i can remember the Ford and the Gm were pulling 17000 lbs compare to 14300 in this run you can’t compare directly.
Correct. Chevy pulled 16,000. 2,300 more than this Hemi did.
truckguyjoe Thats 1700lb difference, not 2300lb...
Math123 ram sent them a hemi with the 3.73 which isn’t the max tow package. Needed to send the 4.10, it’s rated for 16’900
They didn't send them the max tow truck, which is nearly 17000 pounds with 4.10s.
Dillon Horn Based off of the gross combination of the truck and trailer the Chevy moved more weight considering both were maxed out… Chevy has a gross combination of 24,000 the ram only has a rating of 21,500. That’s more like a difference of 2500!
Towed 9000lbs for 15 hours from New Brunswick to Barrie Ontario. The 2021 6.4 hemi 8spd I was towing with did great. The engine never went past 3500 rpm to maintain 100km/h even in the Canada applachiens. The truck stayed very stable towing the load, and had plenty enough stopping power. Unloaded the truck got near 20mpg on the highway. I would have a hard time justifying the new cummins with their extra expense, emissions crap, and failing lifters.
I swear you guys have the best job on earth. Drive cool new cars & truck through the most beautiful parts of the country? Pretty sweet!! 😍👌
I’m buying me a 2018 LongHorn 3/4 ton Ram with the 6.4 HEMI. For me, it more than fits what I want, it can pull what I need, and can cruise nicely. I’m looking forward to this Ram
Yes, another run with the 4.10 gears would help it out. I say you guys do another standard run up and down. After that, I say do another run but manually shifting the transmission. Do it for all the makes. Because honestly, most drivers want control of their rigs in tense situations like this. I think its clear the transmission tune is not aggressive.
Yea towing isn't how much power you have its how it uses it and I agree, the factory tunes for the trans is probably trash
cebayne, This 2020 RAM 2500 4x4 truck came standard with 4:10 gears from the factory
@@sergeantmasson3669 Wrong, 3.73 gears are standard, 4.10 gears are optional upgrade.
@@cebayne 4wd, 4:10 gears is standard. 2wd, 3:73 gears is standard. This is from Ram Truck website: 6.4L V8 MID DUTY HEMI MDS
ENGINE
8-SPD AUTO 8HP75-LCV
TRANSMISSION
SRW 4.10 XBS 9900 2870.0 7034.67 4040.81 2993.86 5500.0 6390.0 24000 24000 16490.
@@sergeantmasson3669 So why are 4.10 gears a $145 upgrade in the builder for a 4x4 bud? Because they are better for heavy towing.
Would love to see the 4.10 truck run. I had one (6.4L/4.10) and it was rated for 3000# more max towing than a 3.73 truck.
Wish they’d put those gears in the Cummins too but 3.73 is it.
@@TheFarmersLife the dually can get 4.10 I think.
@@sHoRtBuSseR that's probably correct
We have 3 of the new 6.4 hemi. We don’t tow with them but we absolutely love them !!! Great truck !!!
Flint Creek Transport how are they on fuel
I had the one sales guy check it soon after I got them and he was gettin 16.5 mpg .... the most important thing to me was getting trucks that I didn’t have continuous issues with. These trucks have been fantastic .....coming from gm
Flint Creek Transport my current 20 sierra with the 3.0 duramax is complete garbage.
I was really tempted to get a eco diesel ram but with all this emissions crap it’s not worth it.
Yes have a guy I work with buy a eco diesel , lots of problems. I love my rams as well drove cumins for years just tried of the diesel smell lol thanks
Get ahold of the 2022 2500 with the 4.10 rear end with the air ride and THEN see what it does and rates. Can't wait. Nice job guys.
Thank you TFL for producing these great videos! Truck lovers and most trailer owners love to watch your analysis of all brands of pickups! I agree with the hordes of Mr Trucks fans that he is becoming a “stud” with that reduction in weight!
Based on some of these comments that are “bashing” this truck’s ability to maintain speed up the I-70 gauntlet from Dillon to the Tunnel, I would like to add another perspective on why these tests do not reflect how most of us drive, but the tests stay true to max out the truck towing at max weights both up and down the mountain.
My experience is probably more indicative of how folks towing with gas engines handle long climbs and descents. I have towed a 26 ft Airstream over the mountains out West based on my known truck’s abilities. Two years ago, my ‘09 F150 with 4.6L required a 35MPH - 45MPH up most of the mountain passes. Drawback on the transmission was I could only access 1 - 3 gears. 4-6 were lumped under “D”. Last month our ‘19 F250 gas, 4x2 went over Monarch Pass at 11,300 feet and we loved the manual option on the transmission. We stayed in a gear that would keep the RPM’s under 4,000 and did not care about our speed going up or down the mountain (downhill rarely used the brakes). Speeds were similar to the F150, but the new HD truck felt more comfortable. Truck lanes were used periodically.
Three questions:
1. what percentage of time are you towing in those extreme mountain climbs and descents? If you spend a lot of time towing and in the mountains, then a diesel is a great investment in making the towing experience much easier. I spend less than 1% of my towing miles in the mountains, and am perfectly fine with slowing down and enjoying the scenery.
2. For TFL - I believe the RAM’s information screen provided temperatures for oil, coolant and transmission fluids on one screen? My F250 only provides transmission temperature? It seems obvious that in Heavy Duty pickup that may see a lot of heavy towing, that ALL OEM’s should provide these three temperatures for operating fluids? Have you asked the other OEM’s why they cannot provide sensors in these fluid for us to monitor during rigorous use of our trucks?
3. For TFL - when will you test the Tundra Extra cab at it’s max tow weight? Reason I ask is that on Airstream Forums, folks new to Airstream regularly ask which tow vehicle is best for a given length Airstream I am planning to purchase. Many responders jump into the discussion by informing all of us that they tow up to 30 foot Airstreams all over the country including the Mountains out West. They tout the million mile tundra’s that are reliable, durable and obviously cost effective! However, they rarely discuss the truck’s ability to tow the max weight and maintain manufacturer’s specs for payload (most Tundra’s have 1400 lbs or less payload), Gross combined vehicle weight, rear axles, etc.
When I emailed TFL, about testing Tundras you mentioned that they had not changed since your last test many years ago. Plus, TFL could address the safety issues for any tow vehicle, when towing over payload, and the other specs and the impact of Tundra’s brakes on safe travel?
Questionable OEM claims on half ton pickups - During last month’s 5,000 mile towing journey, I met a fellow traveler at KOA in Albuquerque, who was new to towing, who provided his rationale for purchasing his half ton pickup. This is what he said; “the salesman said it would tow over 12,000 pounds”! He had a 22 foot Coleman since his wife was willing to finally go camping. As so often happens, he informed me that after spending two weeks with a Murphy bed, his wife wanted a longer trailer with a permanent bed! What a challenge for a half ton pickup to continually support this desire for more living space in a longer trailer!
I have a f250 6.0 powerstroke, bulletpropfed, 257,000 miles, 4:10 gears, Detroit lockers.
Pulled a 14,200 triple axle travel trailer toy hauler. Pulled that same hill, I was able to keep 40-45mph. Gearing makes a huge difference. A strong headwind would bring me to 35mph floored, but it pulled it all the way through no problem.
given the distance and time of this run the Ram averaged about 45mph
Anyone else notice that the GEN-Y hitch seemed to be fully compressed everytime they showed it. How is it gonna work to soften the bumps (trailer to vehicle) if it is always fully compressed?
Even when they were showing it not hooked up, it looked fully compressed.
I always wondered about the 6.4. I'm really glad I bought the Cummins. The Cummins has about double the torque compared to the Hemi. The Cummins pulls like a dream. I pull a 9600 lbs 5th wheel. It never drops below 60 mph and stays in 5th gear @ 2000 rpm more or less on steep grades. Going downhill I never need brakes unless it's you cum up on sharp curves. It sometimes shifts to third gear on curvy hill and goes up to 2800 rpm and really slows down with compression brake on. Thanks for the video as it demonstrates the superiority of the diesel when towing.
Honestly I think a recalibration of the tow/haul programming to be more aggressive would make a world of difference. I seems like the transmission up shifted several times dropping the rpms to 3kish and struggling, when it was accelerating at 4kish.
I don’t think so. It is extremely high elevation, up hill, and half the torque of a diesel, and a N/A V8. Diesels have the torque curve as well.
Been towing a 5000lb camper all over the country with my 2011 5.3 Silverado 1500. The engine went last week at 185000 miles. I'm all too used ti hearing that screaming engine with high rpms. Can't afford it at the moment but a Cummins is in my near future along with bigger rv. Great vidz guys.
An EcoBoost won't be screaming.
The 5.3L was a gutless turd until 2014 and even then its remained at the same out since then, so its behind every other comparable V8 in its class, I think your 2011 barely made over 310hp and only about 330lb/ft of torque. Those old 5.3L's are okay for day to driving and light hauling, but they aren't work truck engines, their figures are also high in the rev range so they have to be wrung out real hard to get to their paltry numbers.
@@nathanmcdonald610 i dont post videos but on my page I posted a short clip of the sound it's making. I just sold it for 5k to guy down the road. He already tore the motor apart and sent me pictures. The cam and lifters are bad.
I know you guys are running competitions but it would be nice to see what the trucks can do when you use everything the truck has to offer. Like gear limiters going down hill and controlling the gas pedal to get the most out of the uphill climb. Maybe you could do two test. One where the truck computer does the work and the other where the driver actually controls the truck to the best of their skill.
4.10s apparently is a must for heavy towing with this engine transmission combo. I would also manually lock out the higher gears on the climb. It accelerated on the grade every time it downshifted so they should have locked in whatever gear that was. I understand that this was a test though.
As one of the guys said below it would be great to see you guys do a video with a 1990s or 2000s model trucks till now and the differences between then and now!! I would love to see the data!! 💯👍
Even an 04 Duramax like mine can't pull like these new trucks. It's amazing what new gas can do
Seeing a v8 motor doing almost 6k rpm, doesn’t sit well with me. Something about an engine that big spinning that fast is weary
@junkey55 meh ive been running motors wide open in boats for a while now, definitely a little pucker thing at first but they just keep spinning 4800-5500 lol not to say I dont change the oil very often. And if I owned a gasser like that dodge it would probably get changed as soon as I got home from a trip
Engineers are pretty meticulous when it comes to setting redline limits. I wouldn't worry about it unless you kept it at that RPM for an extended period of time.
Uhmmm...well they *are* gasser's & *not* diesel's yanno!🙄
kunu98 You’ve got to spin naturally aspirated gas V8s to make any power, especially at altitude. If you want low rpm operation you need forced induction. This engine makes about 250 HP at 10000 ft asl.
Doesn’t bother them. The Vortecs before AFM could bounce on the rev limiter and still give you 150,000 miles of service. Ford’s 5.0 in the F-150 has cast iron exhaust manifolds and a lower redline (compared to the Mustang) because they intend for it to operate at high RPMs for an extended period of time.
So the Ram beat the Chevy because it did the uphill run 30 seconds faster, with a 1700 lb lighter load and even with the lighter load, took 4 more break applications than the Chevy. Yeah, that makes total sense.
Sort of glossed over bad performance.
Ummm. I’ve done the math like five different ways but I don’t own a Chevy calculator... it beat it by 1:24.......... Obviously the engineers need to work out the shifting pattern for down hill but it’s the first year and there’s always quirks to work out. That’s the point of these tests. Not knocking your opinion, just your math.
I like how they did the ford in wintertime and the dodge in summertime
Proof positive that you want a cummins for towing!!!
Yep!
An updated version with a 2022 and 4.10 gears would be nice. The Ford has 4.30 ring gear !
And the Ram has a feature on the steering wheel to let you lock it in a lower a gear.
As well as Manually shift If I understand it correctly.
It’s pretty obvious the best thing about the Ram is the Air Ride. 2000 pounds more tow capacity for Chevy and Ford. Kudos for some of the technology but pulling is what this is about. no question Gold Hitch goes to the Ford. Can you imagine if they were to put in air bags for all the big trucks. Ram, back to the drawing board.
Then don’t buy a sunroof on your ford if that’s your only concern. Ram is coming up in the world but still has a ways to go. Willing to bet there not going to make much change beyond where they are today. Love my Ford, and yes they need to up the interiors in their trucks a bit. I think the new preview of the bronco shows where they are headed.
Most pick ups go onto the dealer lots with either a compromise rear end ratio or one suitable for unloaded highway use. Years ago I was told by a salesman that I was nuts when I told him I wanted a truck speced with a two speed rear end (1 1/2 ton rear). He said it would void the warranty if I ran it in 4x4 with mismatched diff ratios, I told him I wouldn't do that because I know how much a tranny, transfer box, diffs would cost to repair if you did that.
Use cruise control! That tells the truck the speed you want to maintain and it will downshift automatically to help maintain that speed, especially with tow/haul mode. If you are doing everything manually, then any bad results are the fault of the driver, not the truck. Also, not a good display of your hitch. The way its mounted provides NO suspension. It didn't flex at all. Bad hitch, or it was mounted upside down. Torsion suspension should be at max extension unweighted and then flex a bit when under weight, for the shock absorbtion. Review your connection video.
Shouldn't letting off the gas tell the truck that you don't want to go any faster? I think they forgot to code that into this trucks computer because other trucks will start engine braking on an incline as soon as throttle is reduced.
@@boss123400 Dodges need to be tricked into performing it's duties.
Holding it to the floor should've told it how fast he wanted to go as well, shouldn't it?
That rear spoiler is great for keeping the back of trailer clean so I don’t know if that’s the reason that did that or just too make it look cooler and it helps to keep the carbon dioxide fumes from sneaking into the inside of trailer. Bak years ago they put them on station wagons and some had the spoiler on the sides of rear or across the top .
Is that Gen-Y hitch upside down? It looks like it's bottomed out.....
74Beeper oh crap,thanks for the warning.
I agree, looked like it even when not hooked up.
That’s what I thought to, it looks wrong
I'd be interested too. All the other ones I see them hook up are the other way around.
That's the new "Low-Profile Pegasus" It's labeled Spartan, because it was the first one and got the wrong decal. Geny goes 4 more inches into the trailer stem for tall trucks. The movement of the Torsion Hitch is up. So it shouldn't got down any farther.
When they gave the advice to manually shift when pulling in mountains they’re giving solid advice. I have a truck that is almost identical and you definitely want to do manual shift.
I think it would be awesome if Ram would bring back and update the 8.0 V-10 and mate it with the the current ZF 8HP75 transmission it was be an awesome combination.
When is the 4.10 rear end video coming out? Very interested to see it performs towing 16k! 😎
My 98 12V cummins towed 11,500lbs in overdrive at 70mph through a mountain pass no problem. Didn’t even need to downshift. Granted, it had a few goodies and half the elevation but it didn’t need to go over 2000 rpm.
430 rear compared to a 373 is a pretty big difference. But of course the Ford would win. Had gearing and hp and tq in its favor...
and 2,000 more pounds!
@Zesty Meatballs bruh... What?
And the Ford weighs less
I never noticed a difference in tow/haul mode, except it prevents MDS activation. I own a 6.4 hemi 2019 megacab.
MrStaybrown I own one to. It does make a difference towing heavy. It holds the lower gears longer before shifts
The company I work for had a 6.4L 3500 and went through two engines. 2 1/2 hour trip every day, every three days needed filled up with fuel. 150000 kms and truck was sent away. Reccomend a diesel in these 1 ton trucks.
I absolutely agree. The 6.4 is a turd.
Ram Diesel trucks = best
Ford gas trucks = best
That’s what I have, a ram Cummins and a f350 with the 7.5 gas. Both are solid trucks no issues 👌🏻
@Joshua Jerome the only time I would buy a diesel is for towing long term or in mountains, otherwise gas is the logical choice for cost. Gas engines have all the power and torque needed for the average person.
Hope you guys used mid grade fuel. The owners Manuel calls for it when towing regular or very heavy to prevent knocking. Might be why the last 6.4hemi you reviewed was trying to “preserve” itself
TFL's greatest failing. Bottlenecking hp with sh1tty grade fuel.
You guys should do the best budget towing truck. 4x4 crew, 2500lbs+ payload, 10,000lbs towing, under $40,000. I don’t care if it’s 1/2 ton or 3/4 ton, V8, V6. This is all the truck 95% of people would ever really need. I love the 1 ton dually diesel videos, but I don’t ever need to gooseneck 30,000lbs. I would like to take the family camping with a 8,000lbs travel trailer though.
Needs the 4.10 gears plain and simple. Huge difference in performance
Ram signed off that the truck can pull that weight with that ratio. You saying they are incorrect and should lower the weight for that ratio?
LR R they signed off that it can tow with that ratio. They didn’t say how efficient or effective it would be versus the 4.10. The 4.10 would be a better combo vs the 3.73 in the mountains.
They towed 2k pounds less than the Ford and Chevy
HalfShell yup. I put 4.56 gears in mine for here in the mountains and with the 6 speed it’s been perfect.
LR R I never said it couldn’t pull it. Just stating 4.10s would’ve pulled the load a little bit faster and easier up the ike and probably good for a few less brake applications on the way down over the 3.73 gears. Can’t wait for them to test the powerwagon 8 speed up the Ike and compare it to the old 6 speed pw
Had the same issue in the 2020 Ram 1500 HEMI towing 8,000lbs. Tow mode didn't adapt - I had to use manual Gear select to moderate up and downhill.
PS I'm shocked I-70 at Eisenhower wasn't bumper-to-bumper
I think I saw Forrest Gump run past you on the way up....
No that was the Colorado State Patrol on a bicycle, just kidding. Yes I wish we could have received a 4.10 axle.
@Babylon falling Good to hear. I was a big fan of the 7.3L diesels
The Duke says, it (4.10) would not make that much of a difference. The engine needs more low-end torque.
What did I teach you?
It’s good to see Mr. Truck in a video again, it’s been a while!
Thanks
I don't see that motor lasting long running that kind of rpm for extended periods.
I was considering buying one, but I really think they (Fiat/Chrysler) should have tuned it for more mid rpm torque, and less top end horsepower.
Reminds me of the 2014 RAM 2500 with the 6.4 that TFL tested and it really crawled up the Ike. This new transmission did better but it still seemed way out of breath and the downshifts spiked the rpm way up and would quickly lose steam. Seems like FCA needs to re-tune this engine for more low end torque and less high rpm horsepower numbers.
Would love to see runs down the mountain with cruise set at 60 and see what the trucks do to attempt to maintain speed. With all the programming for fuel efficiency I think they want the trucks to coast as much as possible unless you tell the truck what you’re trying to do (cruise control) or manual shifting
I drive a Ram with those mirrors as a daily driver and they never get flipped in. Visibility is a lot better while they are out and it is a PITA to set them back up when you change their position.
Would love to see the same test with a 4.10 rear.
As always, great test and video gentlemen. Especially for those of us living in the Mountain West. These tests provide a more realistic towing capacity for trucks in my area.
No one going down hill will ever let it shift by itself, always run in manual. Always go down hill in the same gear you went up the hill maybe even down one gear depending on how much weight you’re towing. And I guarantee your temps were higher when your fan was on cause it won’t come on till about 220 and I’ve been as high as 270 on my oil temp in my 2018 ram!
I have the same truck very similar but mine has 4.10’s and has no where near that much trouble towing I have no regrets
Seems like the engine is plenty powerful, just waiting for the transmission to downshift.
When people say man that motor is screaming.....its a gas motor its supposed to kick down.let it do its thing,you won't hurt it...and by the way I'm not knocking the diesel at all but the epa has killed the dieses
The transmission needs better programming.
No...the computer doesn't know what the operator wants to do because the idiot behind the wheel didn't set cruise control!!!
No, it needs a better rear end. Transmission is fine.
I love Kent and Andre, good rapport and some good chuckles along the way. Grandpa slang and a Russian accent for the win!!!
Thanks, yes they are starting to bleep my cussin.
Looks like that new transmission isn't programmed properly to work with that engine. Aftermarket tune or FCA needs to wake up and fix it
I agree that Dylan up to the Eisenhower tunnel is one of the toughest climbs there is, however, I believe there’s a tougher climb on the same road. Golden to Dylan is an hour drive and stresses your vehicle more. it’s well known by Denver mechanics if you want to test the vehicle make this drive on a summer day. If your vehicle is about to break down this drive will make it happen.
That oil temp had me concerned. If I recall, this engine had a water to oil oil cooler, the temperature delta should not be that huge.