Hey guys, I am headed to Virginia to do some Gold Prospecting, and will be taking a 4-wheeler, along with other equipment. Will the Ram handle the trip better with the heaviest load in the bed, or on the trailer.?? From what I read driving with O/D OFF will be better for the truck. Is it best to keep it under 65 MPH, so the RPM's don't get too high ?? I usually average 75, but this is without a trailer. Thanks for the advice !!

 

I think you would be better off with the heavier stuff in the trailer. FWIW I got about 8 mpg @ 65 and 9 mpg @ 60 pulling a 6x14 double axle high top enclosed trailer from FL to TN. Got the same mileage loaded (about 4500) or unloaded (about 2500) lol. Also on the way home loaded had a refrigerator and other fairly heavy stuff in the bed. Had OD off the whole time.

 

heavy stuff in the trailer where it hopefully is tied down, has trailer brakes and doesn't sag the rear and lift the front.

OD off and my personal opinion is drive at a moderate/safe speed of 60-70 and don't over-rev and don't drive faster than you can safely stop and control your load. i' like to see rpm's under 3000 max, 2500 better.