Hey All,

As i look to move on from my 05 SCrew Lariat I have been looking at the Platinum or yes, dare I say it, the 2013 Ram 1500. Hadn't thought to much about the Ram until this year... 8 Speed Hemi, air suspension and Ram box are all pretty cool features. Anyway,fully loaded Ram 8 speeds just arent hitting dealers and I really dont want to wait 8 weeks (on average) to have on built.

So that got me really concentrating on the Platinum. I found one in Kodiak Brown that has the main options I want however is has the 3.31 locking axle. I have to admit, I dont know much about these gear ratios but I assumed since the limited came standard with the 3.73 that had to be the best. I tow a bass boat about 20 times a year and am wondering if the 3.31 is something I should avoid.

Any help/thoughts would be great.

Thanks,
Leif

 

A numerically higher ratio will have a bit more low end and will be better for towing. A numerically lower ratio will provide marginally better fuel economy, witht the biggest difference being on the highway with an unloaded truck. 3.55's are a good compromise between the two. Personally, I went with the 3.73 as I wanted that little extra oomph. Hope this helps!

 

3.31's are kind of high for towing, but depending on the motor. It might not be a big deal. I would suggest that you ask your dealer if you can try the truck towing your boat. That will give you a good idea regarding if it will get the job done to your satisfaction or not. But if it were me, I would be searching for another truck with numerically higher gearing.

Good luck with your truck quest.

 

thanks guys.... really appreciate the help!

 

The only engine I'd tow with with 3.31's would be an Ecoboost.

 

hey guys... to give you the back story the transmission went on my 2005 Lariat and I had it replaced with a used one that had 90K miles on it... my truck has 125K miles on it when the original transmission went. Since having it replaced I just dont have a lot of confidence in the truck, especially with tow season coming up. I find myself being a lot more cautious with the truck... not that i ever beat on it, i just really dont want the thing to strand me in the middle of nowhere. Do you think I'm being crazy to dump my 05 for a 2013??? thoughts/opinions would be appreciated.

 

Don't think your being crazy at all. There is nothing more rewarding than peace of mind.

As far as the Platnium with 3.31 I think you will be fine for towing your boat.

Oh and the air suspension on the Ram....well its pretty cool to me.

 

I actually found the same vehicle with the 3.55 electronic locking rear axle so that's the one I'm hunting right now. sticker is is $54,090 and right now they are at $46,500.

Think i have much more room here.... still need to hit them with the trade.

Thanks!!!

 

Which engines do the 2 trucks have?

 

Sorry, should have specified... both have the ecoboost.

I have seen a 5.0 in Grey with the 3.55 locking rear but i think the brown looks sharper

 

If they both have the EB, the 3.31 is good enough to tow a bass boat. It's rated to tow at least 9k. The 5.0 with 3.55's is rated for at least 7.5k.

 

thanks glc. Still not sure what to do. Would be easier of the Ram with 8 speed/air/ram box was on the lot but having to order one changes things.

 

Get the Platinum, wonderful truck and for those times when you aren't towing (most of the time) you are really going to enjoy the smooth ride, quietness of the cabin, fit and finish and the seats are the most comfortable seats I've ever had in any vehicle!! No bias of course

I have the 2013 Plat with 5.0 and 3.55 electronic locking rear axle and it has plenty of power and that 5.0 V8 sound just hits the mark

 

I may be biased, but I can only say "Dude, get the Platinum. Forget the Dodge"

 

I hear you.... I'm really up in the air. Looking to make my decision by Friday/Saturday. Hoping I can an 8 Speed Ram on Friday and see what i think