2021 RAM 3500 Tradesman | AEV Prospector | FWC Grandby

[ramblinChet]

Not using your Torklift frame-mounted tie downs? Or did I miss something?

You are correct - I am not using the Torklift mounts despite my belief that they were the best option. I had them with me when my camper was being mounted at FWC Jackson Hole / Bozeman and after much discussion I went with their expert recommendation and had my FWC mounted in the traditional way. In summary, I shared my questions and concerns and respected the fact that they have installed more FWCs than all other FWC dealers in the US combined, with the exception of FWC headquarters in California.

Although my Torklift system was installed it was never used so it is available for sale.

 

[69HemiGTX]

This such a cool build. Do you live in the Gloucester area? If so, I can't believe I haven't seen this around yet. I'm in Hayes.

 

[ramblinChet]

This such a cool build. Do you live in the Gloucester area? If so, I can't believe I haven't seen this around yet. I'm in Hayes.

My home is in Yorktown although my truck has been in Michigan at AEV until recently. Are you heading to Overland Expo East this weekend in the western part of Virginia?

 

[69HemiGTX]

I had no idea it was going on. I've been too busy with work as we're very shorthanded right now thanks to Army HRC.

 

[Desertfox73]

Picked her up yesterday morning.

View attachment 22672

DUDE!!! Congrats, I know it’s been a long wait! Looks like they washed off the paint I used to personalize it, but I’m not offended.

Excited for you brother.

 

[ramblinChet]

It's the attention to detail such as marking bolts that sets AEV apart from many others.

 

[ramblinChet]

No other suspension manufacturer corrects front suspension geometry like AEV does. And convenient marks on the bolts also.

"Steering geometry is corrected by way of AEV’s High Steer Kit, which includes a custom, no-drill forged drag link, AEV track bar and raised track bar tower. This system provides significant improvements to steering precision and handling by correcting the roll center height of the front suspension and bringing the steering geometry back into factory alignment. This results in reduced body roll and bump steer, which are major contributors to the loose or sloppy steering and driver fatigue commonly associated with many lift kits."

 

[ramblinChet]

6.7L Prospector XL and 6.4L Prospector

 

[Desertfox73]

Dang. Nice!

 

[McHenry2500]

What's the difference between the XL and the standard? Or is it just that the XL has the diesel?

 

[Desertfox73]

What's the difference between the XL and the standard? Or is it just that the XL has the diesel?

Biggest difference is the XL has 40" tires (and associated steering assist and fender flares), which is why it's called the "XL", which is Roman numerals for 40.

Both can have diesel, but the PXL requires it.

The list of different options comparing the two is here: https://www.aev-conversions.com/vehicles/prospector-xl-2020/prospector-xl-build-and-price/.

 

[ramblinChet]

Departing wonderful Tuscarora State Forest in Pennsylvania and heading back to plan for another adventure.

 

[Greenhills]

Biggest difference is the XL has 40" tires (and associated steering assist and fender flares), which is why it's called the "XL", which is Roman numerals for 40.

Both can have diesel, but the PXL requires it.

The list of different options comparing the two is here: https://www.aev-conversions.com/vehicles/prospector-xl-2020/prospector-xl-build-and-price/.

40s and no regear

 

[Desertfox73]

40s and no regear

Correct! So far haven’t felt the need. The torque on this is amazing. It moves, and it cruises.

 

[Greenhills]

Correct! So far haven’t felt the need. The torque on this is amazing. It moves, and it cruises.

Interesting, glad you like it. I just went to 37s and wish I could regear.

Does AEV upgrade the brakes for the XL? I noticed a significant loss in braking when upgrading to the 37s. I imagine 40s must require some additional brake upgrades?

 

[Desertfox73]

Interesting, glad you like it. I just went to 37s and wish I could regear.

Does AEV upgrade the brakes for the XL? I noticed a significant loss in braking when upgrading to the 37s. I imagine 40s must require some additional brake upgrades?

No brake upgrade, but haven't felt the need for that either. True, it doesn't stop on a dime, but I adjust my driving accordingly to allow for it. A couple weeks ago I was surprised by a small Mercedes that pulled out in front of me, which forced me to stand on the brakes, and they did their job. I wouldn't want to do that often, but it's nice to know that the truck can stop when it has to.

FWIW, my other car is a tuned Audi TTRS, which pulls 0-60 in 3.3s and will then come to a complete stop in about 105 feet. So when I switch into the PXL I adjust my driving habits and expectations considerably. Thus far I've been surprised at how quickly it'll actually rotate 40s from a stop, though I by no means 'push it' by hammering the gas. My mindset with the PXL is "I'll get there eventually", and just enjoy the ride.

 

[Brewbud]

Interesting, glad you like it. I just went to 37s and wish I could regear.

Does AEV upgrade the brakes for the XL? I noticed a significant loss in braking when upgrading to the 37s. I imagine 40s must require some additional brake upgrades?

Do you have gas or diesel? I have the stock 3.73 on my diesel and the truck is very drivable with them. I may change to lower gears when they become available but the reason would be to put less strain on the 68rfe. My 2007 Cummins had 3.73s and 37s. I drove that truck for 13 years like that.

 

[Greenhills]

Do you have gas or diesel? I have the stock 3.73 on my diesel and the truck is very drivable with them. I may change to lower gears when they become available but the reason would be to put less strain on the 68rfe. My 2007 Cummins had 3.73s and 37s. I drove that truck for 13 years like that.

It's a Cummins. I will also swap gears when they are available next year (apparently) just to save the trans.

 

[ramblinChet]

Keep in mind all 3500s and diesel 2500s have the hydro-boost brake systems.

 

[Brewbud]

It's a Cummins. I will also swap gears when they are available next year (apparently) just to save the trans.

My combination of 3.73s and 37s is the same final ratio of the 4th gen trucks with stock tires and 3.42s. I plan on adding some HP. More HP combined with 37s is the reason I may be changing when they become available.

I could almost swear the PXL I looked at on the lot had 4.11s. I guess not since they don't have them yet.