Something new in the 3-ClassDodge once had a large lineup of commercial vehicles, but with the turbulent times of the 1980s, the company nearly abandoned this market segment. It kept on with its small-size pickup trucks and found new profitability thanks to its vans. For a few years now, we've seen this division of DaimlerChrysler putting a lot of efforts into its pickups by giving
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them a robust design rivals and customers can't ignore. Then they brought the famous Hemi engine back and kept offering the Cummins diesel engine. As for commercial vehicles, Dodge distinguished itself with narrower vans designed by Mercedes-Benz's truck division.
For 2007, Dodge is taking a step forward to enlarge its line of products and to enter the 3-Class (small size) commercial truck market. These trucks are designed for small entrepreneurs like landscape gardeners, electricians and retailers who need to tow up to 7,257 kilos or to carry a 10,433-kilo load.
Numerous combinations  |
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For a novice, choosing between different models of commercial trucks can become a real head scratcher: two cabs, three wheelbases, two engines, three gearboxes, two- or four-wheel drive, etc. When you're planning on buying one of these, it's important to clearly define your needs and to find the appropriate mechanical answer. What type of loads will you be towing? Are you going to tow or carry? By sorting out your various needs, you will be able to purchase the right truck.
A few features  |
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Dodge decided to simplify the chassis of its Ram 3500 so that entrepreneurs can fit the cargo boxes and accessories of the suppliers more easily and rapidly. The two rails of the chassis are 34 inches apart, in their full length, and all components are positioned underneath these rails. Always thinking about the entrepreneurs, Dodge chose to comply with proven industrial steel strength standards (50,000 psi).
Two engines, three gearboxes |
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The V8 Hemi engine comes standard. It generates 330 horsepower and 375 lb-ft of torque through a standard six-speed manual transmission or a new optional five-speed automatic gearbox. Dodge also offers a powerful Cummins 6.7-liter turbodiesel I-6 engine. This one produces 305 horsepower and 610 lb-ft of torque while burning low-sulfur diesel fuel. It is mated to the six-speed manual or to an optional six-speed automatic transmission. These two powertrains can be equipped with variable axle ratios depending on the type of work. Moreover, a four-wheel drive transfer case can be added to these two configurations. Dodge managed to limit the oil change frequency to 15,000 miles (24,000 kilometers.
