Maybe a silly question - but why do the Ram 1500s use 5-bolt axle/wheels? Everyone else uses 6 lug. Is the Ram setup less stout? 9.25" rear, right? I need maximum utility out of my next (& hopefully soon) truck purchase. Can the Ram running gear hold up to actual "truck duty".

Thanks!

 

if you need utility, why not look at 3/4 ton trucks?

 

im going to say its a cosmetic reason

 

I've often wondered the same thing, but I will say that I've seen a lot more failed GM hubs and axles over the years than Dodge in 1/2 ton trucks and GMs have 6 lugs...

 

So why is 6 better than 5? Maybe they should be 7 or 8 lugs! If folks were posting that they were breaking wheels or having issues with the 5 lug pattern, then I would worry about it. Maybe in the old days with steel wheels it made a difference, I doubt it does today.

 

I have always assumed that it was because dodge uses hub centric wheels and the others are lug centric, so they need the extra lug for strength.

 

Interesting. Never thought of that.

 

For years, Dodge cars had left handed lug nuts on the driver's rear wheel only(!)
Something to do with lugs nuts spontaneously unscrewing I suppose.

 

5 or 6, it really don't matter. There is only 3 bolts holding in your wheel bearing unit.

 

It's a really interesting point. I'm finally going to upgrade from the 2wd dakota to a new Ram. Put thought i might throw this out. My dakota has a 6 lug pattern.