The Cummins diesel engine has been around since the late 80s, offering a powerful and efficient diesel engine to Dodge Ram pickup trucks. Whether you’re looking at an older model Dodge Ram or a newer Ram, buying a model with a Cummins diesel is well worth considering.
Here are a few things you’ll want to be aware of before making a purchasing decision.
One of the primary draws of diesel engines is the torque produced for towing applications. If this is a crucial consideration for you, you’ll want to focus on models no older than 2013.
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Why is this important? In 2013, the Cummins Ram was able to achieve 850lb-ft torque for the first time. This was a giant leap in torque and hence a major step up in the line’s ability for heavy-duty towing. If you want even more towing power, you’ll want a 2019 or new model for 1000lb-ft of torque.
Buying a newer vehicle will of course help with fuel economy with all vehicles. Diesel engines are also known to generally be more fuel-efficient than their gas-powered counterparts. This is one of the big selling points for diesel engines. Because diesel can be ignited through only compression rather than relying on sparking a fuel-air mixture, the diesel engine is more efficient.
With that said, if you want the best fuel economy possible, the newer Ram 2500 you buy the better. The 2022 Ram 2500 offers a gas-powered option as well, but diesel engines generally get about 20-35% better mileage than gas.
Only the Ram 2500 includes the Cummins diesel engine option. If you’re in the market for a heavy-duty workhorse of a truck, then this is a great choice. However, maybe you’re wondering if you need that much truck?
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Frankly, if you do a lot of heavy towing, plow snow, or perform other activities that really make your truck work, then the Ram 2500 with the Cummins is the best option. For lighter duty usage, the Ram 1500 would be the better choice. The Ram 1500 does not offer an option for a Cummins diesel engine, but it does have a smaller 3.0L diesel option in the newest models.
In general, gas-powered engines tend to provide more horsepower than diesel engines. This is because gas burns much quicker than diesel allowing the engine to rev faster.
With that said, the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel can definitely hold its own. The latest model reaches 400 HP to go along with its 1000lb-ft torque, which means it has plenty of power and acceleration.
Aftermarket upgrades to your diesel truck can provide a nice performance and reliability boost. This is true whether you’re looking at a brand new 2022 Ram 2500 or a used 2013 Dodge Ram 2500.
There are a wide variety of aftermarket parts available for Cummins-powered Ram trucks of all years. From exhaust upgrades to intake manifolds, there are some great options. One of the simplest and possibly the most critical is the option to replace the OEM head bolts with aftermarket head studs.
TrackTech makes great aftermarket racing fasteners and general diesel head fasteners for a variety of engines. Fortunately, this includes a wide range of head studs for the Cummins diesel engines. These high-quality head studs will ensure your diesel engine isn’t held back due to weak fasteners.
The Dodge Ram–and now simply the Ram–is a great overall lineup of trucks. The Ram 2500 line is one of the most respected heavy-duty vehicles on the market today. If you’re considering buying one of these vehicles, you’ll be getting a vehicle that is powerful and will also edge out similar gas engines due to the Cummins Turbo Diesel.
Overall, if a heavy-duty workhorse is what you need, you won’t be disappointed in a Cummins-powered Ram 2500.
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