Engine brake |
| Just above the cupholders is the switch for the engine brake of the Cummins turbodiesel. (Photo: Amyot Bachand) |
In the case of the Cummins engine, the engineers designed a useful braking assist device for drivers, especially when the truck is fully loaded. The driver can reverse the turbo pressure via a dash-mounted control; this pressure reversal acts on the exhaust system and creates a forced deceleration of the engine. As soon as the driver releases the throttle, the engine compresses to slow the vehicle down. If you accelerate again or if you maintain pressure on the throttle, the system disengages immediately. In addition, when stopping on a hill, it prevents the truck from going backwards.
Single or double wheels |
| (Photo: DaimlerChrysler) |
Both powertrains, whether in two- or four-wheel drive configuration, can be mounted on a single- or double-wheel rear axle in order to increase the load capacity. The single-wheel axle has a 4,627-kilo limit, while the double-wheel axle with the diesel engine can carry up to 7,670 kilos. The combination of the two axles (front and rear) boosts the total capacity of the truck to 10,433 kilos.
Two cabs, three wheelbases |
| Ram 3500 with Regular Cab in base SL trim. (Photo: Amyot Bachand) |
The Ram 3500 is available with two cabs: Regular Cab (3 passengers) and Mega Cab (5 passengers). The first one can ride on two different wheelbases: 143.5 inches or 167.5 inches (extended chassis). The four-door Mega Cab comes in only one wheelbase of 163.5 inches.
Three trim levelsThe buyer can choose between three different trim levels with any of the two cabins. The base ST package offers a simplistic layout with rubber floor mats, vinyl seats and manual powered locks and windows. With such a basic environment, I recommend at least
 |
| Regular Cab in base SL trim. (Photo: Amyot Bachand) |
the accessory package that includes heated power side mirrors. This is a must in Canada. In my opinion, every vehicle sold in this country should offer this feature as standard equipment. I hope the dealers won't order trucks that don't have them. The equipment list can be extended by selecting the SLT model, which adds standard climate control, power locks, windows and mirrors as well as cruise control. The cab also sports a 4-speaker audio system and cloth seats and mats. Outside, the front plastic grill is replaced with a chrome grill matched with chrome wheels (single axle). The
crème de la crème is the Laramie model, Dodge's premium trim level. This trim is all chrome while the cab offers dual climate control and heated leather seats.
