The 2011 Ram 2500 Power Wagon
Written by: Patrick Rall
The Ram brand used the 2011 Detroit Auto Show to show off their
complete brand lineup, including the 2011 Ram 2500 Power Wagon – the
complete work truck whether your job takes place on the road or off.
The Power Wagon package is available only in 2500 models with a Crew
Cab, a 6’4″ bed, single rear wheels and the 5.7L Hemi V8.
Buyers of the 2011 Ram 2500 Power Wagon can chose from six different
two-tone exterior packages which include a Black Clear Coat lower
portion with these colors atop the truck: Brilliant Black, Bright Silver
Metallic Clear Coat, Bright White Clear Coat, Deep Cherry Red Crystal
Pearl, Deep Water Blue Pearl Coat and Mineral Gray Metallic Clear Coat.
All of these paint choices include the Power Wagon-specific decal
package that is highlighted by the “Power Wagon” font along the sides of
the bold Ram heavy duty hood.
The Power Wagon is only available with the 5.7L Hemi and a 5-speed
automatic transmission and while some people complain of the lack of a
diesel option, Kevin Metz, Head of Ram Truck Product Planning explained
that not offering the Cummins was a weight issue. The Cummins weighs a
great deal more than the Hemi and when you add that additional weight to
the front end of the Ram 2500, it unbalances the truck which creates a
problem when off-roading. So, to not undo all of the efforts to equip
the Power Wagon was amazing off-road abilities, the Ram engineers have
made the Hemi the only engine. As a Hemi owner, I see no problem with
this as the 383 horsepower and 400lb-ft of torque allows the Power Wagon
to tow 10,300lbs while also offering unbeatable off-roading
capabilities in stock form.
The off-road capabilities of the 2011 Ram 2500 Power Wagon are
accomplished through 32″ off-road tires, an electric front and rear
electric locking differential, an electric disconnecting front sway bar
(with automatic re-engage) and a suspension package (with the help of
Bilstein) that offers 14.5″ of ground clearance, a 35 degree approach
angle, and a 26.5 degree departure angle – so there aren’t many hills
that the Power Wagon cannot overcome. To help pull out any stuck
Chevy’s that you come across when off-roading, the Ram Power Wagon comes
equipped with a Warn 12,000lb winch tucked behind the front bumper and
keeping the undercarriage safe from any rocks on the trail is a set of
underbody plates.
Finally, a 4.56 front and rear differential help to give the 2011 Ram
Power Wagon enough torque to get through the toughest situations and
when you “build your own” Power Wagon on the RamTrucks.com website,
sticking to items like cloth seats and the standard sound system, the
new Power Wagon can be had for under $46,000.