Hi guys, I'm new the site it looks like there is tons of information to be found on here.
I am interested in buying an 04-06 dodge ram 1500. I'm curious to here about the differences in stock gas mileage. I would like the hemi, but not really sure what gas mileage it will get. Plus if you guys have any advice on things to look for specific to these rams i'm all ears.

Thanks!

 

the hemi gets around the same if not better than the 4.7 mpg. but it also depends how you drive it lol the 04-05 do not have mds while the 06 does.

 

What is the mds? (sorry for the stupid question)

 

multi-displacement system (MDS).
MDS allows the Hemi to transition from eight cylinders to four. The switch takes place when there’s little or no load on the engine, such as cruising the Interstate. Silverbullet is correct, it was first offered on the 2006 models.

 

Do all 06 hemis come with this or is that an option?

 

2006-2009 ALL 1500's come with MDS except the Mega Cabs as they are built on 2500 frames.
MDS sucks IMO. i turned it off with my DSP tuner and get better mileage around town. Same on the highway.
04 years are having issue's with tuners I believe. MDS causes slow downshifts, throttle lag, no power, not to mention 4cylinders cannot keep a truck this size moving through the air. Not once when i had MDS on, did the truck maintain speed on highway. it ALWAYS slowed down and then downshift to get back up to speed. very annoying. great idea, not really practical.in something this big.heavy

4.7L catback sounds beefier than the 5.7's, but the power difference is immense. Go 5.7 or go home i say.
Ohh, if a 5.7L has a little tick tick going on...Perfectly normal for the Hemi. it's called the "hemi Tick'. most of us have it already or will in the future!

 

Thanks for the information. That would explain while i was test driving an 06 with a hemi last night it would keep fluxuating rpm, engine noise (had straight dual exhaust) while going about 68 mph.

 

Yup. that's what happens with aftermarket catback. No resonators and it sounds like a freakin helicopter when it kicks in. i think Everyone who owns a handheld tuner has turned it off and never looked back. i know mine will stay off as long as i own my truck.
I wouldn't let that keep you from getting an '06. You can pick up a tuner for $350 new and gain 20rwhp and have trans shift options, mds delete, fuel trims...etc.... Well worth it and i only bought one to turn the mds off....lol

 

What can expected mileage be with a stock 5.7 and then after a handheld tuner is used?

 

You lookin' 4x2 or 4x4?