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“Upgrade” to 2018 Ram 3500 Mega

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Gofast23

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I ordered a 2022 Ram 2500 Hemi to pull my 8,000 pound GVWR travel trailer. It currently has 16,200 miles. As a combination, it is an excellent truck/trailer package except for the fuel economy. We are now discussing the potential of moving up to a fifth wheel in the 11k pound range. That would work with the payload and tow rating, and I believe the Hemi can get it done (although I recognize a diesel would be better.), but I’ve come to the conclusion that I do not want to deal with even worse fuel economy and range anxiety with a heavier and larger trailer. In the northern part of the intermountain West, fuel stops can be few and far between sometimes.

Financially, we are not in a position to spend additional funds on upgrading both the truck and trailer. Therefore, I’m looking to “upgrade”to an older 2018 ram 3500 mega cab with 81,000 miles. It has the standard output engine with Aisin transmission. The value of both trucks is in roughly the same ballpark, so I am viewing it as a straight swap financially.

Does this even seem like a good idea? I’m having a hard time coming to grips with the idea of moving to an older truck with more miles at the same cost. But that is what it would take to get the truck I need without putting more money in. Are there any known issues with the 2018 models that I should be aware of?
 
My 2018 was a great truck, but the standard output trucks don’t have the Aisin transmission, they have the 68RFE.
 
If the finances are a consideration, I’d say give it a go with the Hemi unless you really want a new truck. I’ve got a 6.4 to pull a 10k 5v’r and have no complaints other than the 31 gallon tank. Not sure what mileage you’re getting with the current setup but I get about 7.5 mpg pulling on the interstate and that’s mostly because I don't drive “slow”. I know I could eke out 9 if I changed my driving habits but the minimal difference isn’t worth changing to me, I drive how I drive.

That 18’ does sound like a sweet truck though ;)
 
Grateful Dad said:
If the finances are a consideration, I’d say give it a go with the Hemi unless you really want a new truck. I’ve got a 6.4 to pull a 10k 5v’r and have no complaints other than the 31 gallon tank. Not sure what mileage you’re getting with the current setup but I get about 7.5 mpg pulling on the interstate and that’s mostly because I don't drive “slow”. I know I could eke out 9 if I changed my driving habits but the minimal difference isn’t worth changing to me, I drive how I drive.

That 18’ does sound like a sweet truck though ;)
Click to expand...

Beat me to it.

The OP isn't likely to see any worse fuel consumption pulling the fiver than the TT. Don't be too quick to jump ship.
 
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