2017 Ram 2500
For the 2017 Ram 2500 pickup, much of the focus was directed to off-road capability. Already a highly capable tow/haul rig, the 2017 Ram 2500 received an updated 4x4 Off-Road package that included tow hooks, hill descent control, limited slip differential and a transfer case skid plate. For those that are more serious about off-roading, the 2500 Power Wagon is the reigning king. With 4.3" of ground clearance, 12,000 lbs factory bumper mounted winch, front and rear electronic locking differentials, disconnecting front stabilizer and off-road tuned Bilstein suspension, this 6.4L Hemi power pickup is trail-ready. However, all this trail prowess comes at a price, as the Power Wagon 2500 is rated lower in terms of towing and hauling compared to its regular three-quarter ton sibling. Properly configured, a 2017 Ram 2500 can tow up to 17, 890 lbs versus 10,030 for the Power Wagon.
DIY Power Wagon
The first step toward transforming a 2017 Ram 2500 into an off-road monster like the Power Wagon is by getting some more ground clearance. This is achieved through the installation of a Ram 2500 lift kit. Officially, the Power Wagon sports a 2" lift. Matching this level can be done through a simple spacer lift kit, which inserts coil spring spacers to lift the body higher up. That said, for best performance and driving comfort, it is always recommended to match a lift kit with a tuned set of off-road shocks (if the lift kit does not already include them). Shock absorbers built to work with a lift kit feature revised internal valving (and often times larger bodies and oil capacity) that are engineered specifically for an elevated Ram. They will last longer than the OEM shocks and give better handling. That said, lift kits that provide more than 2" will generally always come with upgraded suspension and brackets in order to keep the proper range of motion and geometry.
Trail Rated Self Help
A front or rear mounted electric winch is a game changer component for 2017 Ram 2500 trucks that enjoy wheeling through the trails. All the power and suspension travel in the world sometimes just isn't enough if you get your Ram well and truly stuck. An electric winch, through its high reduction gear box, has enough power to pull your own truck (or a buddy's) out of a jam. Most aftermarket winches sport a 4-6 horsepower motor, routed that power through a planetary gear reduction system. This system is composed of a central sun gear, multiple planet gears and a ring carrier. With the input from the electric motor, the planetary gear system manipulates the output torque by reducing the RPM. Typically with gear ratios of 200:1 or higher, planetary gear winches are quite robust. Sizing up a winch for a 2017 Ram 2500, we only need to look at the Power Ram for inspiration, which sports a 12,000 lb capable factory installed winch.
Prevent Debris Buildup
A fun way to express yourself and keep the hitch receiver from getting clogged with road debris is through the use of a hitch cover. These super simple devices plug into the 2" square hitch receiver (when not using a drawbar or other accessory) and seal off the opening to prevent buildup of dirt and mud on the inside. There are two types of hitch covers, plug covers and cap covers. The first is an insert piece that uses a pin, just like the drawbar, to be held in place. This style is usually made of stainless steel and can be locked in place with a locking pin to prevent theft. The second type, the cap cover, simply snaps over the opening of the hitch receiver. These hitch cap covers are the least expensive and are usually made from plastic. Sadly, as they just snap on and off, there is nothing to prevent someone from stealing it.
