The Ultimate RAM Heavy Duty Buyer’s Guide: 2500 vS. 3500

Choosing between the RAM 2500 and RAM 3500 isn't just about "more power", it's about how that power is delivered to the road. At Redwater Dodge, home of the Rig Ready RAMs, we know that the "best" truck depends entirely on whether you prioritize a smooth daily commute or maximum commercial-grade stability.

Choosing a heavy-duty pickup is a significant investment, and Jarod at Redwater Dodge wants to ensure you select the Heavy Duty RAM truck that perfectly aligns with your lifestyle or business needs. While the RAM 2500 and RAM 3500 might look identical from the outside, they are engineered for two very different missions. The decision often comes down to a trade-off between unloaded ride quality and maximum mechanical endurance.

The Suspension Secret: Comfort vs. Capability

The most impactful difference between these two powerhouses is hidden beneath the rear wheel wells.

The RAM 2500 features a segment-exclusive five-link coil spring rear suspension. This engineering choice is designed to mimic the ride quality of a light-duty truck or large SUV. By using coils rather than stacked metal plates, the 2500 can absorb road imperfections, potholes, and highway "chatter" with far more grace than its larger brother. If your truck doubles as a family vehicle or a daily commuter, the 2500 provides a level of refinement that is rare in the heavy-duty world.

On the other hand, the RAM 3500 utilizes a traditional leaf spring setup. While this leads to a stiffer, "bouncier" ride when the bed is empty, it is the superior choice for handling vertical pressure. Leaf springs distribute the weight of a heavy trailer tongue or a massive payload across the frame more effectively. When you drop a 3,000-pound 5th-wheel hitch onto a 3500, the suspension settles into its "sweet spot," providing a stable and level towing experience that a coil-sprung truck simply cannot replicate at that scale.

Analyzing Payload: More Than Just "In the Box"

Payload is often the most misunderstood spec in the trucking world. It isn't just about how many bags of concrete you can throw in the bed; it includes the weight of your passengers, your fuel, and—most importantly—the tongue weight of your trailer.

RAM 2500 Limits: With a maximum payload of approximately 2,700 lbs, the 2500 is perfect for the weekend warrior. This capacity is more than enough for a slide-in camper, a bed full of ATVs, or towing a standard bumper-pull travel trailer.

RAM 3500 Dominance: If you step up to the 1-ton 3500, the payload jumps significantly. In a Single Rear Wheel (SRW) configuration, you’re looking at up to 4,400 lbs. This allows for much heavier 5th-wheel campers that have high pin weights.

Stability and the "Dually" Factor

One of the biggest advantages of moving to the RAM 3500 is the availability of the Dual Rear Wheel (DRW), or "Dually," configuration. For those towing massive commercial loads or high-profile 5th wheels, the Dually is a game-changer for two reasons:

1. Stability: The wider footprint at the rear acts like an anchor, significantly reducing "trailer sway" caused by crosswinds or passing semi-trucks.
2. Unmatched Specs: A properly specced RAM 3500 Dually can push payload limits toward 7,590 lbs and towing capacities up to a staggering 37,100 lbs.

If you are hauling big commercial loads or taking the family across the country in a 40-foot 5th wheel, the stability of those extra two wheels provides a level of confidence and safety that a 3/4-ton truck cannot match.

The Cummins Diesel Factor

While both trucks offer the legendary 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel engine, only the RAM 3500 offers the High-Output (HO) version paired with the ultra-durable Aisin 6-speed transmission. This combination produces 420 horsepower and a massive 1,075 lb-ft of torque. If you frequently tackle steep mountain passes while fully loaded, the 3500 HO is the undisputed king of the hill.

Jarod Rosin -- Sales at Redwater Dodge

Employee Since: 2024-12-09