Being the 04 has the same Hemi Engine as the 06 I wonder if Chrysler will come out with a program to make the 04 get the same mileage as to 06 does.Seems to me that all they need to do is change the computer or reprogram the 04. I spoke with a servive manager and that's what they think too. any one know for sure. ?

 

The 06 has that cylinder shut down feature. Are you saying that the 04 and 06 are mechanically the same? It seems to me that shutting down cylinders is more than just a new program.

The 06 is only rated 1 mpg better.

 

The MDS (Multi Displacement System) is new on Hemi Ram for 2006.

 

Just so you know not all 06 Hemi's have the MDS feature. Mine does not, it was an added feature..

 

The top end on the 04 and 06 is no the same... there are physical differences in the valvetrain.

 

You sure about that?... I feel silly questioning your knowledge of your own vehicle but. I have been unable to locate one without it and the dodge website, and two different dealerships say they only come with MDS.

 

Thats funny, I just went to the Dodge website and you are right about the trucks being produced today. Mine was an early 06, one of the first to hit the lot. It looks like I got an older version of the 5.7 Hemi that does not have the MDS feature.. Now if you get the 5.7 you have to get the MDS.. I dont know if I am lucky or if I got screwed???

 

Personally, I think you're lucky. All the extra valve train parts and solenoids and such could end up giving the new MDS Hemi's some problems later on, not to mention any add-on mods you may want to make later. Just keep your foot out of it when you're looking for better mileage. I think they would have been better off setting the 5.7's up with the ability to run e85 fuel, but a question to DM says NO and no plans for the future.
The e-85 is worse on overall mpg, but it costs less too, and leaves a lot less carbon deposits in the combustion chamber

 

I would like to know how you got a MB transmission in your 2500 ram. As for the MDS, I have a 2006 1500 laramie. The system has electronic lifters on 4 cylinders to disable the valves and the computer disables the fuel injecters to those cylinders. It works seamlessly. I only have 1100 miles and am getting 14 mpg in the city. As far as I know all 06's are supposed to get the MDS. I would complain.

 

Only the 1500s have the MDS as far as I know, the 2500/3500s don't count towards CAFE standards nor are their fuel economy numbers measured so there is no reason to put the MDS Hemi into the 2500/3500s