I've never stopped to give this much thought, but whilst I'm reading around here, I see a good amount of reference to the 5.2/5.9's performance improving (due to whatever mod) in the (to me) higher RPM range (for augment sake say 2200-3500).

Now admittedly I drive a sick (have done all my life) and can't remember driving an auto V8, so have no frame of reference... but are you guys really operating at 3500 RPM?

By 1200 I'm out of 1st (most times by 1000), maybe as far as 1600 for 2nd, and 2000 for 3rd and 4th... 2000 in 5th has me at the freeway speed limit.
If I push it up through the gears, I might hit 2500 at most... I've never had it to 3000, let alone higher.

Are autos revving that hard, or are we street racing

 

I drive a 2000 ram 1500 5.2 auto and im usually through all the gears within 2000 rpms, I rarely ever push 2200-2500, I do drive like im 70 but i get alright mileage at 11.5 mpg.

 

My average rpm is from idle to 2200 rpm based on 55 mph, if I am playing in snow it can and will get to 6000 rpm. towing out of OD at 55 mph I run around 2700 rpm. Hope that helps you.

 

You make me feel good at 13.5 to 14mpg...

 

A good insight... thanks.

So I guess mod's that give these higher RPM gains are not of much use, unless I plan changing driving style to use them... then we know my MPG is out the window as my boot goes in to get there.

 

For your driving style no some of the mods are useless to you. Maybe a small cam and the kegger mod, headers and you would be a happy camper.

 

HS 1.7 rockers and a tune would go along great with kegger mod.....imho...

 

I ain't been around much, merc, so I don't know of anyone has already warned you..

I got some bad news for you, bro..

It looks like a polar bear is about to eat your truck, man..

 

Back on point, though:

Identifying what you actually need out of a build is the first thing a wise builder will nail down.. look at what your actual needs are.. look at the engines power curve where the mass of the truck is in motion with as little load on the engine as possible.. select a complimenting torque converter.. select the axle ratio that compliments the transmission gearing and t/c, and engines curve, and figure tire weight and diameter into your overall drive ratio and load.... .. add to engines performance with mods that add torque to the range you use most often..

Mother mopar built you a truck that approximated what most folks need.. it's up to you to dial it in.. if it costs too much to get what you need out of that thing, select another platform to work with, that is closer to what you need in its stock form..

 

Yea he has been trying for a while, but he just can't catch the Dodge lol. Nice to see you posting here again bud.