Hi, i usually hang aroung the 3rd gen Ram area. I will be in the market for another ram for myself pretty soon. I want a 2nd gen for the solid axles. Now I am wondering whether to get a 1500 or 2500. I would be buying a quad or regular-cab-short bed. I like the power of a diesel but also like the size of a 1500.

I was wondering which would be better for off-roading? Which has fewer problems? What are the major differences? What axles do the 1500s have in front and rear (I heard the 2500s have Dana 60s up front with dana 70s in back)?

Thanks

 

I think 35" tires is about the limit with the D44. Most folks seem to go with the 2500 because it is easier/cheaper to build a more bulletproof D60 in the front.

D70 would be nice in the rear because it is a full floater. Than means if you break a rear shaft, you can pull it out and still be able to drive (your wheel won't walk off the back).

The 2500 has wider leaf springs in the back... 3" vs 2.5" on the 1500 if I remember correctly.

Good luck,
Cartman

 

All 1500s have the Dana 44 up front and the Chrysler (Corporate) 9.25 in the rear.

For a 2500, as long as you buy a 1996 to 2002 2nd gen, and not a 1994 or 1995, your front axle will be a Dana 60, as Eric stated.

For the rear axle on a 2500 after 1995...
2500 w/ 5.9L V8: Dana 60
2500 w/ diesel and auto: Dana 70
2500 w/ diesel and manual: Dana 80

 

go 2500.
dana 60 gives you a lot more options in selectable lockers, stronger axles, etc.

 

Like the size of the 1500 versus the 2500? They are the same size, the 2500 is just about 2" taller. If you are talking about off road capabilities 2" is a good thing.

Go 2500. You can get a 94-95 that has the Dana 60 up up front and a Dana in the rear. Only the gas V8's came in light duty and they are rare.

 

I didnt know that the 2500s were the same size. Thanks. Also, What kind of milage do the diesels usually get?

 

Depends on what you want to use it for, 2500 if you're going to be doing alot of heavy loads and serious towing.

1500 if it's mild loads and towing, also the 1500's are great offroad

 

Also, how similar are their (1500 and 2500) capabilities off-road to a Ford Bronco? Quad cab, short box, 4x4. Thanks again.

 

no there not, 2500 frames are taller than the 1500's, and yep, 94-95 cummins also have a d60 up front...

 

the 2500 is heavier, 1500 can use alot of the 2500's suspenion parts also. 2500's are naturally higher than the 1500 so we can use their spring's to gain some extra height using the 2500's stock suspenion with minimal fab work, the front springs will fit with out any modding.

As far as the 4x4 i personally would rather have a 1500 off road, they'er lighter an takes alot less to move it in mud/sand.