I'm looking at buying a 2012. I noticed there are at least 3 gear ratios: 3.21, 3.51, 3.92. I don't plan on towing or running with heavy loads. Any recommendations for which one to get? I assume the 3.21 will benefit from higher gas mileage. Thanks for any comments and recommendations.

 

As far as rear end ratios go, the 3.21 will net you higher freeway mpg and lower city mpg. The 3.55 is kind of middle of the road and 3.92 will net you better city mpg but slightly less highway mpg.

If you are towing or do a lot of mountain driving, 3.92 would be the best.

 

Thanks, LVRR. Are the issues with the limited slip differentials resolved in the 2012s?

 

Menarefrommars,

I noticed you mentioned that you were not planning on towing heavy loads, however, if you are looking for information and specs on the 2012's check out the link I've posted below. It will provide specific towing information and will assist you in comparing the 3 gears ratios to see what will accommodate you.

www.dodge.com/bodybuilder

Let me know if you have any other inquiries and keep us posted on your final decision!

 

Thanks, Katie. Good information. Much better than I get try to surf the RAM websitte. One of the confusion aspects of deciding on a RAM is there are so many models. When we bought our Honda Pilot they had 3 levels to choose from. Here there are ST, SLT, Tradesman, Outdoorsman, Big Horn, Lone Star, Laramie, Limited, Express, Sport, I'm sure I forgot one.

 

Good question.

I have not seen much on the forums about the lsd so I will presume that there are few problems. Ram had a problem recently with the pinion nut coming loose and the drive shaft could possible fall out or purge the the rear end oil and seize. I believe it covered model years 2010 and 2011. A recall is being issued for this problem.

The only problem I have had with my truck is the motor for the AC vent position had a gear strip at 38,000 miles. I repositioned the gear to avoid the stripped area and it works fine now. Otherwise trouble free for 41,000 miles

 

First of all, gas mileage on these 6000lb trucks is never going to be stellar, regardless of gear ratio chosen.
Secondly, if you search these forums you will find far more owners trying to figure out how to change TO 3.92's than FROM 3.92's.
If you decide to go with 3.92's, it is far cheaper to factory order them than to do it afterwards.

 

I would highly recommend the 3.92's as well.

 

Go with the 3.92s. I just traded my 2010 with 3.92s to a 2012 with 3.55s and it gets worse fuel milage. I have noticed that unless I am in the 62-63 mph range the truck won't even go into 6th gear. My 2010 would get 15.5-16 in town, and usually 18-20 on the highway. So far, my 2012 is getting 13.5 in town and the best I could get on my recent trip is 17.5. I am pretty disappointed in the fact that I am getting worse millage. Not to mention, the truck is quite a bit more responsive with the 3.92 gears.

 

I drove a 2012 Hemi Crew Cab this morning with a 3.55 rear. I was surprised RPM at 60 mph was above 1500 rpm for an engine with so much torque. I appreciate that a truck that does work would benefit from 3.92 gearing. For me, I'm going with a 4x2 and think have a limited-slip is an important option to have ro help in low traction situations.