Im currently debating things. I truely want a diesel, but I see lots of issues with those, and they are really just out of my price range.

SO realistically Im looking at either 2500 or 1500 quad/crew cab short box 4x4 hemi.

I will be towing, most likely quite often. Usually a car dolley with a vehicle loaded, but also either a flatbad open trailer or my 24ft enclosed trailer (vnose). All with a car/truck/van of some sort loaded on it.

Will the hemi be able to handle all that? Can I stay with a 1500, or do I need to get a 2500?

What are the ratios on the new 6spd transmissions as well (curiosity question)?

I saw the new 2013 ram with the 8spd, and am tempted to wait on it, but I need a truck pretty much NOW. Also, a new trans is always risky.

Any and all input is appreciated!

Thanks!

 

Get a 2500 with the hemi, the emissions gear on the diesels kills your mpg.

If your towing a lot as you say the added weight capacity and strength of the 2500 will give you comfort.

 

Mopar2you,

It all depends on the weight you plan on towing. I have included a link below to the Ramtrucks site that you can compare the different trucks and configurations (such as regular cab, quad cab, etc) to help you make a better decision.

If you are going to buy a 2012 model you should be able to get a pretty good deal right now as they are trying to move the inventory to make way for the 2013's. If you are going to wait for the 2013's it may be awhile as they are just now starting to make it out to dealer lots.

http://www.ramtrucks.com/en/towing_guide/

 

That is a super helpful link!!

Does anyone know if the new 8spd transmission will maintain the same tow rating as the current 2012 hemi rams? Also, will it be going into the 2500s or is it a 1500 only trans?

Thanks for the help! ! !

 

Not 100% sure, but I know that the 2500s are always 1 year behind in technology over the 1500s.

That being said, word around the street is we won't see any 8 speeds installed until the 6 speeds are all sold out. So speculations are that if you want an 8 speed, your gonna have to wait till at least late spring...

 

well thats discouraging lol! I need a truck pretty soon. dont think a 1/2 ton hemi will tow my 24ft enclosed very well (im in NH so there are a lot of mtns). could be wrong i guess.. its an enclosed v-nose, weighs about 4000lbs empty, I will have a car (3500lbs apprx) plus between 500-1000 lbs in trailer. APprx 9000 lbs overall.

anyone know if it will?

 

Reviewing the chart at the link sent by dodgecares, if you change the gear ratio to 3.92 on all models you will see that all 1500 models are all above 9000 lbs towing capacity. You will however need to subtract passengers and other gear from that amount so you are pushing the limits.

A 2500 series, even with the hemi is rated much higher and would be safer for you, your load and others on the road.

On the link referred to, select the PDF file in the lower right for 2500series, look for crew cabs, 5.7 hemi, automatic with 4.10 gears, that's what you want IMO.

 

That info has not been released yet.

 

Thanks. I should have included the direct link for the 2500 as well.

 

It is my understanding the 8 speed will be matted to the 2013 Ram 1500 3.6 305 hp Pentastar, with the 8 speed to be added to the hemi in later production. At least that is what I have read when searching the net on the 2013 Ram. It is my understanding the 3.6 will be a $1,000.00 option