For those who need to get some major work done, the 3500 is the way to go. This is because it has some of the best towing capabilities, as well as some pretty decent comfort. Having been on the market for some time, there's some things that you need to know before you hit the lot, letting you get a model built for work, without being barebones.
Key takeaways
- Given the nature of this vehicle, it didn't see much change throughout its life, with the different generations bringing the most change.
- No matter the generation you find yourself looking at, they will still manage to haul just about everything you need it to with ease when properly equipped.
- The Ram 3500 comes with a handful of configurations, making it easy to get what you're needing.
Fourth Generation (2011-2018)
Starting with the 4th generation, these will likely be the oldest models that you find on most lots. Hitting the roads in 2011, the 3500 was the only model on the market to come with a manual transmission for the duration of this generation. To most drivers, this won't mean too much, but if you're someone who prefers to be in maximum control, then this is what you're looking for.
This generation saw three cab configurations on the model, with these being the regular cab, Crew Cab, and Mega Cab. All of these offered varying bed lengths, ranging from 6.3-feet to 8-feet. To keep up with the size of the truck, dual wheel configurations were also available across this model.
Some engines that you can find are the 5.7L V8 and the 6.7L Cummins turbo-diesel. The gas engine is able to make 383 horsepower, and 400 lb-ft of torque. But if you want the most torque, then the 6.7L takes that crown, as it can make 350 horsepower, and 649 lb-ft of torque. If you're looking at a 2011 model, you may find one that was produced a bit later that comes with 800 lb-ft of torque. The most that you can get from this generation when it comes to towing is just shy of 23,000-pounds, making this a workhorse for tradesmen all over.
Starting in 2013, this model saw some slight changes, now coming with 18-inch wheels, making it a bit sturdier. To keep things looking nice, they also come with 18-inch forged alcoa wheels. Starting in 2014, the 3500 received a new interior design and revised exterior styling from the Ram 1500.
This new style came with both 5-inch and 8.4-inch screens, depending on the trims you get. These come equipped with features such as an SD card slot, Bluetooth audio, voice control, auxiliary ports, and USB ports to name a few upgrades.
Over the next few years, the model didn't see much change, with the main changes being trim level changes. For those who find themselves wanting some of the best tech, then you can look for Laramie trims, as these will come with a standard nine-speaker, 506-watt Alpine 7.1-channel surround-sound premium audio system as standard equipment.
Fifth Generation (2019-Present)
Being that the previous generation was getting a bit stagnant, Ram thought it was time for an upgrade. Much like the last generation, this one comes with a two-door regular cab with a long bed, a four-door crew cab with either a standard bed or a long bed, or a four-door Mega Cab.
This model comes with two engines, one being new to this generation, which is the 6.4L V8. At most, this engine can make 410 horsepower, and 429 lb-ft of torque. The other engine is an upgraded 6.7L Cummins that makes 370-400 horsepower, and 850-1075 lb-ft of torque, depending on which version you find.
If you want the best towing capacity, then the torque heavy Cummins is for you as it can tow 35,100 pounds and handle a payload up to 7680 pounds. When it first hit the market, this was the best that the segment had to offer, with Car and Driver noting that other models would try to "knock it off its perch."
So, is a Ram 3500 heavy duty pickup right for me?
We think that it is. If you're someone who values hard work, then the Ram 3500 is the embodiment of that. Coming with a massive 35,000-pound tow rating, this truck is the dream for handymen, as well as ranchers all over the US. But if you're looking on where to find one, then come on down to a Jarrett location today!