2014 Ram 3500 vs 4500

To me the biggest issue is rear end gear ratio.
I drove another companies Ford 550 to El Paso with about 24k of trailer.
If it got 7 mpg I would be surprised.
When conditions favor it I can go 700 miles on a tank of fuel in my Ram 2500.
I could NEVER learn to like a 4.00 or higher gear.
Now if a company was paying my fuel and I was hauling 24K + all the time MAYBE.....

 

I have the 2013 Ram 3500 30,000# truck. I would buy a 5500 for the 19,500# GWR 4.10 gears for sure, 4.88 is to low. I love my truck, I wish I had purchased a bigger truck. My trailer is rated at 24,900# and I have never loaded it over 15,000#

 

I would want one with APU. Couple of times tried to leave it idling but couldn't sleep with all that vibration. Another concern would be more engine wear if it's running 24/7.

 

What year is your 3500? Do they still make them with EGR?

 

It's a 2008. To my knowledge yes they all still have egr.

 

I was told all newer model semi's (2011 or 2012 and up) have SCR. It was EGR previously. Not sure if it's the same for pickups.

 

I don't know, I'll have to look into that.

 

All the new Ford and Dodge 2500 and up have a DEF tank. The F550 I referenced had it.
I just know at the speeds we were running the rear end ratio was a big one.
My RAM is running a little warm. Because either my fan clutch or the wiring has a fault.

And Hot Shot = HURRY UP AND WAIT

 

If you already have the 3500, keep it and run it. Let the business accumulate money to replace it later. If you are buying, always buy the biggest that your budget can afford. True for trucks, power tools, steaks, rifles and handguns and so on.