2017 Ram 3500
Like many heavy-duty trucks, the 2017 Ram 3500 offers a vast range of customisation: it is available with three cab styles, two bed lengths, three engines, two transmissions and six trim levels. The standard 5.7L V8 gasoline engine produces 383 horsepower and 400lb-ft of torque and is mated to a six speed automatic transmission. A modified version is also available that runs on compressed natural gas and produces identical power numbers. The two other engine options for the 2017 3500 include a 6.4L Hemi V8 capable of 410 horsepower and 429lb-ft of torque. As of 2017, this engine is now standard on Laramie, Laramie Longhorn and Limited trims. A turbocharged 6.7L six-cylinder delivering 350 horsepower and 660lb-ft of torque paired with a six-speed manual transmission is also available. With an automatic transmission, the turbodiesel’s numbers increase to 370 and 800 respectively; and when combined with the heavy-duty Aisin AS69RC six-speed auto transmission, this Cummins turbodiesel reaches 385 horsepower (at 2,800rpm) and 900ft-lb of torque (at 1,700rpm). Depending on its configuration, the Ram HD can handle a payload of 7,390 points and tow up to 31,210 pounds.
Reduce Heat, Increase Performance
For all 6.7L Cummins RAM owners, an aftermarket intercooler will help to improve performance and can also extend the life of your pickup. Intercoolers effectively take warm air entering the engine and make it colder through heat exchange. They are particularly useful for all turbocharged engines, as the boost pressure of the turbocharger will increase the air temperature, and, if it’s not cooled, will lead to less engine efficiency. Compared to the stock setup, an aftermarket intercooler is usually a direct fit replacement that is nonetheless larger, and its increased capacity means better heat reduction properties. It will help lower Air Intake Temperatures (AIT) by as much as 12.5% and improve air flow, delivering cooler, denser air straight into your engine. Intercoolers available for the Ram HD 3500 are typically air-to-air intercooler kits, meaning they effectively use a colder airflow to cool a warm flow of turbocharged air before it enters the engine and is mixed with fuel. Courtesy of the rules of thermodynamics, colder intake air means more power - though don’t expect tons of extra power! Manufactured from premium 6061 aluminium with black or silver powdercoats, a performance kit will typically include the intercooler, as well as new air ducts and a replacement lower fan shroud. Some may also include hot and cold-side pipes and boots as well, though the pipes are frequently sold separately.
Must-haves for Recovery Ops
Ram’s that see a lot of the trails should be equipped with recovery gear, just in case: better to have it and not need it, rather than need it and not have it. One of the most common off-road mods is a front-bumper mounted winch, but there are other smaller accessories that can be highly valuable in tricky situations. D-rings for example are an inexpensive extra recovery point for all trucks equipped with D-ring mounts. An off-road traction board does exactly what it says on the tin - its reinforced bylong construction will provide the extra traction needed to escape from snow, mud and other loose, wet terrain. If and when you do get stuck, recovery strap (or tow strap) is made from professional-grade high-tensile woven polyester and available in different widths and lengths, with some capable of hauling up to 30,000 pounds. Also made from high-tensile woven polyester are ratchet straps, though they are also adjustable, ideal for both hauling and recovery operations.
