Hey, I've just re-engined my '98 RAM 1500. As stated in the title, it is a 5 spd manual with 355 or a 310 rear end. Tows little stuff (under 1k) still great. However, i often tow a 3-4k scout trailer for my sons BSA unit.

Going up hill, i downshift, but it appears to hit a "wall" where even if i have the accellerator on the floor, i can't get the engine to spool up. I don't knwo if this is normal for a manual, or if i have a computer issue i need to re-set. it does not appear to have this issue when cruise is engaged.

Any input would be appreciated. My tow rating is around 5k, tranny and rear end are in great shape clutch and driveline are tight and don't slip.

Just concerned if i am at the top end of the truck's ability, or if my issue is a short between the seat and the steering column.

Thanks!

Willie

 

What all does "re-engine" mean? Did you fix the plenum issues and then the O2 Sensor and more then likely clogged/clogging catalytic converter?

If the answer isn't yes to all of those, at least, you'll still have performance robbing issues.

What size tires are you running? It's more then likely the 3.55 rear end, which is ok for highway driving on stock sized tires. You should probably see a bit better towing performance with a manual transmission versus an automatic.

 

Those 3.55 gears aren't helping you go up any hills.

Might have to downshift two gears sometimes.

 

This.


OP, what gear are you in, how fast are you going and what RPM are you turning? You may be lugging the hell out of it and just need to drop another gear.

 

I agree with dropping an additional gear. Another thing to look for is the death flash.

 

The blown plenum on the original motor, toasted the cat and o2 sensors.

 

I think you should drop 5 gears. I would recommend dropping them out the tailgate, for weight savings.

 

Is this supposed to be sarcasm or not?

 

I have the same deal, gotta downshift to 3rd and get her goin to get up hills. I pulled a 5k lb load of firewood (weighed on a certified scale) and got about a 70 mph run at a hill in 3rd at 3500-3750 somewhere in there and almost had to go to 2nd at the top. Not even that big of a hill. With the 3.55 rear end 5th gear is basically useless when pulling anything I just drive in 4th with a load

 

That's the thing with a small block and towing I guess. You have to keep it on the pipe to go anywhere. It's a good thing these babies have some strong bottom ends.

You also gotta make sure your'e existing cat isn't all clogged up from your last engine. Beware the magnum engine clogged cat syndrome! . With it hills will reallly suck. Trust me mine died going down a hill when my oem cat broke up inside.