My Power wagon build thread

[CJTEX]

Alright, guys, new to Ram totally and love the brand due to the number of available accessories for these trucks. However, I want to get it done right the first time and obviously, you guys know what's good and what isn't so I'm open to suggestions.

- Truck will be my daily, so 37's are not for me
- Definitely going to be getting this thing offroad, hence why I went with Billet Silver
- Want it to be functional for fishing trips (poles/kayaks/ gear)


Here's my list of what I plan on doing to this truck right away, let me know what you think could be better or suggestions for gaps I may have.

- Mickey Thompson A/T Baja Boss 35's ( Seeing good reviews on these for driveability and wet performance)
- Diamond Back cover- I'd like to have fishing pole mounts on the underside of it and the ability to put kayaks on top.
- LED lights for the rack for late/early morning fishing trips or tailgating (unsure of what brand to go with)
- Front light bar - https://www.randyellisdesign.com/store/p124/Dodge/RAM_2019-2021_2500/3500_Light_Bar_34201_-_Satin_Black.html. (Unsure of lights but I would like individual lights vs light bar) - Using for trails / back roads to work have a lot of deer and minimal vehicle traffic so I won't be blinding people
-Truck comes with a bed liner but I'd like to get the bottom of the truck Line-X protected, from what I've seen over the years Rams like to rust and I want to keep this guy nice for many years to come. Also supposedly there is some sound deadening which could be nice. I'd like feedback if any of you had done this.
- Amsoil everything! - I plan on driving this truck back and changing all the fluids when I get home with it (2k mi drive). I want to change all the case fluids prior to doing the line-x seal.
- Buttons? Who has the buttons? - Truck comes with dual alternators and cabling. Share your thoughts on a good aux button pad for all these lights I plan on using if you can.
- DOGS! - I've got two border collies I want to start getting on the road with me more now that I'm back in a truck. I'd like to protect the seats, but also the door trim as these guys like to get crazy in the car. Let me know what you use that worked for such a situation.
- Hoping XPEL has a laser cutout sheet for the center console area to put on xpel stealth and protect the screen and piano black pieces. Also going to XPEL the paint along the stock rock sliders since they're so thin and get my detail guy to nano coat the truck with GTechniq. Xpel - https://www.xpel.com/rx / GTechniq - https://gtechniq.com/product-category/auto/ceramic-coatings/

**Edits**
-Adding CJC winch guard and the other tranny guard to the PW armor list to-do's. - https://dethloffmfg.com/shop/oil-transmission-skid-plate / https://www.cjcoffroad.com/products...intercooler-guard?_pos=1&_sid=fd5a991ac&_ss=r
- Going to try out this dog cover for the rear seats as it covers the door sills too- https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07DCS4F82/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
- Lights - switch pro looked like it had great fit and finish, solid custom configs (pricey though) https://store.switchpros.com/sp-9100-switch-panel-power-system / KC Flex Era 4 lights (4) https://www.kchilites.com/flex-era-4-2-light-system.html / Rack lights - https://www.kchilites.com/2-c-series-c2-led-area-flood-light-system-328.html OR https://luxlightingsystems.com/coll...ock-light-kit-for-rvs-8-piece-ground-coverage
- Changed covers / rack and just going with a diamond back cover to kill two birds with one stone





- Lastly, let me know if I'm overlooking something you feel is important to owning a power wagon, ram truck in general for offroad or daily usage. I know there are a lot of guys out there that push these things to the max and you have a lot of cool toys to go with them.


Appreciate the help and look forward to your tips and advice, it's always better to listen to those wiser than yourself!

 

[DammitDave]

Welcome,
I have a 2020 Tradesmen 2500 6.7, I just put on a set of Wildpeak M/Ts 35X12.5, they rub the back of the front fenders a little even after a little trimming but liveable I think. I got the factory spray in bed liner, done that on my last couple of trucks and always been happy with that. I never switched over to Amsoil but have know quite a few people who have with good results. I have the extra buttons added in my dash and I'm happy I did, supper easy for installing accessories. I have a shedding Corgi I let ride in the back seat, I bought Covercraft Carhardt Seat covers and I think they are great, heavy denim like material and easy to clean off. Good luck with your new truck!

 

[el_barto]

Cool, welcome.

I wouldnt do fluids yet. Maybe oil, but Id just wait until 5k. I do my oil on 5k intervals so its a nice even number to remember.
Transmission fluid is special sauce, you need to use ZF fluid, so dont change it until you hit the interval (ZF recommends 60-80k).
Transfer case, Id leave it alone until the standard interval comes up (like 50k).
Axles, I did at 20k, to allow them to break in then flush out the fluid and metallic bits (most wear is in the first 15k). I put amsoil 75W90 severe gear. I also added FilterMag magnets inside the axles to help keep any additional magnetic particles from building up on the locker magnets. I will probably not change this fluid for another 50k or so now that the axles are worn in.

For switches, I chose the SwitchPros 9100 and SDHQ knee-panel mount. It makes wiring in accessories easy, and the panel looks OEM.

For lights on the rack, are you are just looking for small/area task lighting? I have LUX rock lights under my truck, but they would work well on the rack for task lighting as they are small and super easy to install (magnetic!)

One thing you didnt mention is armor, if you’re off-roading. It comes from the factory with some extra skid plates, but there’s a few other vulnerable points where protection can be improved. Id recommend checking out the sticky thread at the top of the forum for options. Popular are rock sliders. I also recommend a front diff guard and Dethloff trans pan guard (they are backordered and not available for 2021+ yet...but keep your eyes on their page). The trans pan is plastic.

 

[LateToTheParty]

Welcome. Good choice with the Billet.

To solve the kayak problem you could add a set of the clamp on bars from rhino rack over the cab, or you could go all out with the backbone and platform tray. Or you could reach out to Nuthouse and see if they'd be willing to build a custom rack with something over the cab. I used the clamp on rhino rack bars on my previous two short-beds for many of the same reasons (fishing rods, SUPs, fishing boat).

For the dogs, I have been real happy with this cover. It zips up on the sides and protects as much as you could ask a seat cover to.

 

[Rgory]

I have the Bak Revolver X4S on my 21 PW with the Ram Box. It is great. My wife purchased the 4KNines rear seat cover and it is amazing. https://4knines.com/collections/truck-seat-covers/products/floor-hammock-for-crew-cab-trucks

 

[CJTEX]

Welcome. Good choice with the Billet.

To solve the kayak problem you could add a set of the clamp on bars from rhino rack over the cab, or you could go all out with the backbone and platform tray. Or you could reach out to Nuthouse and see if they'd be willing to build a custom rack with something over the cab. I used the clamp on rhino rack bars on my previous two short-beds for many of the same reasons (fishing rods, SUPs, fishing boat).

For the dogs, I have been real happy with this cover. It zips up on the sides and protects as much as you could ask a seat cover to.

I think I'm going to go with this cover. Is it thick? Crazy how much money covercraft wants for stuff that doesn't protect the door sills too.

 

[CJTEX]

I think I'm going to go with this cover. Is it thick? Crazy how much money covercraft wants for stuff that doesn't protect the door sills too. I'll probably go with the CJC winch guard and remove the air dam, and then the tranny guard as well for now once they come in stock.

 

[2powerwagons]

Alright, guys, new to Ram totally and love the brand due to the number of available accessories for these trucks. However, I want to get it done right the first time and obviously, you guys know what's good and what isn't so I'm open to suggestions.

- Truck will be my daily, so 37's are not for me
- Definitely going to be getting this thing offroad, hence why I went with Billet Silver
- Want it to be functional for fishing trips (poles/kayaks/ gear)


Here's my list of what I plan on doing to this truck right away, let me know what you think could be better or suggestions for gaps I may have.

- Mickey Thompson A/T Baja Boss 35's ( Seeing good reviews on these for driveability and wet performance)
- Contour Rack (https://dethloffmfg.com/shop/contour-rack-rambox-ram-2500-3500/) - Seems a little expensive but my truck has ram boxes. I'd like to have fishing pole mounts on the underside of it and the ability to put kayaks on top. In reality, I wish there was a rack that was one piece that also went over the roof so I had no kayaks hanging off the back end.
-Bed cover - I'd really like something similar to the Bakflip version that rolls, I just don't know if it will work with the ram boxes and contour rack setup.
- LED lights for the rack for late/early morning fishing trips or tailgating (unsure of what brand to go with)
- Front light bar - https://www.randyellisdesign.com/store/p124/Dodge/RAM_2019-2021_2500/3500_Light_Bar_34201_-_Satin_Black.html. (Unsure of lights but I would like individual lights vs light bar) - Using for trails / back roads to work have a lot of deer and minimal vehicle traffic so I won't be blinding people
-Truck comes with a bed liner but I'd like to get the bottom of the truck Line-X protected, from what I've seen over the years Rams like to rust and I want to keep this guy nice for many years to come. Also supposedly there is some sound deadening which could be nice. I'd like feedback if any of you had done this.
- Amsoil everything! - I plan on driving this truck back and changing all the fluids when I get home with it (2k mi drive). I want to change all the case fluids prior to doing the line-x seal.
- Buttons? Who has the buttons? - Truck comes with dual alternators and cabling. Share your thoughts on a good aux button pad for all these lights I plan on using if you can.
- DOGS! - I've got two border collies I want to start getting on the road with me more now that I'm back in a truck. I'd like to protect the seats, but also the door trim as these guys like to get crazy in the car. Let me know what you use that worked for such a situation.
- Hoping XPEL has a laser cutout sheet for the center console area to put on xpel stealth and protect the screen and piano black pieces. Also going to XPEL the paint along the stock rock sliders since they're so thin and get my detail guy to nano coat the truck with GTechniq. Xpel - https://www.xpel.com/rx / GTechniq - https://gtechniq.com/product-category/auto/ceramic-coatings/

**Edits**
-Adding CJC winch guard and the other tranny guard to the PW armor list to-do's. - https://dethloffmfg.com/shop/oil-transmission-skid-plate / https://www.cjcoffroad.com/products...intercooler-guard?_pos=1&_sid=fd5a991ac&_ss=r
- Going to try out this dog cover for the rear seats as it covers the door sills too- https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07DCS4F82/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
- Bakflip x4s will also be going on, now that someone confirmed the fit. - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07DCS4F82/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
- Lights - switch pro looked like it had great fit and finish, solid custom configs (pricey though) https://store.switchpros.com/sp-9100-switch-panel-power-system / KC Flex Era 4 lights (4) https://www.kchilites.com/flex-era-4-2-light-system.html / Rack lights - https://www.kchilites.com/2-c-series-c2-led-area-flood-light-system-328.html OR https://luxlightingsystems.com/coll...ock-light-kit-for-rvs-8-piece-ground-coverage





- Lastly, let me know if I'm overlooking something you feel is important to owning a power wagon, ram truck in general for offroad or daily usage. I know there are a lot of guys out there that push these things to the max and you have a lot of cool toys to go with them.


Appreciate the help and look forward to your tips and advice, it's always better to listen to those wiser than yourself!

I put the same tires on my PW in July. I like them so far. No snow yet.

Orvis For the rear seat dog hammock. I tried a bunch of others and they never lasted a year with my Lab. Some even less. Wasted money. These hold up.


https://www.orvis.com/grip-tight-quilted-hose-off-hammock-seat-protector/20JF.html

I found some interior door protectors on Amazon. They're so-so, but better than nothing. Still looking for something better on that end.

 

[el_barto]

I'll probably go with the CJC winch guard and remove the air dam, and then the tranny guard as well for now once they come in stock.

Personally, I don’t think the CJC intercooler/winch Guard is that valuable for Power Wagons (protecting the winch). It’s much better for its primary purpose, protecting the intercooler, which could leave you stranded if it gets damaged…but as Hemi owners we don’t have to worry about that obviously.

The winch is tucked in the bumper/frame rails, it’s pretty well protected. Could it still be damaged? Sure. For my money though, the Carli diff Guard is a better investment.

 

[jetrinka]

Personally, I don’t think the CJC intercooler/winch Guard is that valuable for Power Wagons (protecting the winch). It’s much better for its primary purpose, protecting the intercooler, which could leave you stranded if it gets damaged…but as Hemi owners we don’t have to worry about that obviously.
The winch is tucked in the bumper/frame rails, it’s pretty well protected. Could it still be damaged? Sure. For my money though, the Carli diff Guard is a better investment.

I’ve got one of their intercooler guards coming for my power wagon. Mainly for looks though as I hate that air dam but also don’t want to remove the compatibility brackets that hang down and are visible with the dam removed. The skid ties into them which I like. We get some deep snow here at times and I could see ripping that thing off

 

[el_barto]

I’ve got one of their intercooler guards coming for my power wagon. Mainly for looks though as I hate that air dam but also don’t want to remove the compatibility brackets that hang down and are visible with the dam removed. The skid ties into them which I like. We get some deep snow here at times and I could see ripping that thing off

Yes I removed the air dam as well. I’m sure it would have self clearanced itself by now if I hadn’t done it surgically. I know many people remove the compatibility brackets, but I understand their purpose and plus they work well as a little protection for the smart-bar and winch. I’d rather scrape those brackets on rocks than the swaybar.

 

[AnthonyD1978]

My thoughts...

Alright, guys, new to Ram totally and love the brand due to the number of available accessories for these trucks. However, I want to get it done right the first time and obviously, you guys know what's good and what isn't so I'm open to suggestions.

- Truck will be my daily, so 37's are not for me

You'll be running 37s within 12 months

- Definitely going to be getting this thing offroad, hence why I went with Billet Silver
- Want it to be functional for fishing trips (poles/kayaks/ gear)


Here's my list of what I plan on doing to this truck right away, let me know what you think could be better or suggestions for gaps I may have.

- Mickey Thompson A/T Baja Boss 35's ( Seeing good reviews on these for driveability and wet performance)

I love the Falken Wildpeaks for an AT tire. Plus they are 3 peak rated if you see snow. Just another option.

- Contour Rack (https://dethloffmfg.com/shop/contour-rack-rambox-ram-2500-3500/) - Seems a little expensive but my truck has ram boxes. I'd like to have fishing pole mounts on the underside of it and the ability to put kayaks on top. In reality, I wish there was a rack that was one piece that also went over the roof so I had no kayaks hanging off the back end.

Great rack, but you may also want to consider the Front Runner Outfitters rack. I run it and love it. It has many advantages of it being a low-profile rack. The only disadvantage is you lose some cargo height in the bed.
Better center of gravity. Better MPG. Easier to reach items at the top. Doesn't add any height to your truck. Tons of options to mount items on the rack. Provides security for larger items in the bed. Front Runner is a large company with top-notch service.

I've run it in multiple configurations.

-Bed cover - I'd really like something similar to the Bakflip version that rolls, I just don't know if it will work with the ram boxes and contour rack setup.
- LED lights for the rack for late/early morning fishing trips or tailgating (unsure of what brand to go with)

I currently use an LED strip and these are great when you don't want the power of the sun in your face and just need some extra lighting around the bed. I've yet to do off-road lighting, but that will probably be next using Baja Designs or KC Hilites.

- Front light bar - https://www.randyellisdesign.com/store/p124/Dodge/RAM_2019-2021_2500/3500_Light_Bar_34201_-_Satin_Black.html. (Unsure of lights but I would like individual lights vs light bar) - Using for trails / back roads to work have a lot of deer and minimal vehicle traffic so I won't be blinding people
-Truck comes with a bed liner but I'd like to get the bottom of the truck Line-X protected, from what I've seen over the years Rams like to rust and I want to keep this guy nice for many years to come. Also supposedly there is some sound deadening which could be nice. I'd like feedback if any of you had done this.

- Amsoil everything! - I plan on driving this truck back and changing all the fluids when I get home with it (2k mi drive). I want to change all the case fluids prior to doing the line-x seal.

- Buttons? Who has the buttons? - Truck comes with dual alternators and cabling. Share your thoughts on a good aux button pad for all these lights I plan on using if you can.
- DOGS! - I've got two border collies I want to start getting on the road with me more now that I'm back in a truck. I'd like to protect the seats, but also the door trim as these guys like to get crazy in the car. Let me know what you use that worked for such a situation.
- Hoping XPEL has a laser cutout sheet for the center console area to put on xpel stealth and protect the screen and piano black pieces. Also going to XPEL the paint along the stock rock sliders since they're so thin and get my detail guy to nano coat the truck with GTechniq. Xpel - https://www.xpel.com/rx / GTechniq - https://gtechniq.com/product-category/auto/ceramic-coatings/

**Edits**
-Adding CJC winch guard and the other tranny guard to the PW armor list to-do's. - https://dethloffmfg.com/shop/oil-transmission-skid-plate / https://www.cjcoffroad.com/products...intercooler-guard?_pos=1&_sid=fd5a991ac&_ss=r https://www.cjcoffroad.com/products...intercooler-guard?_pos=1&_sid=fd5a991ac&_ss=r

I think the winch guard doesn't do much for the PW. It's actually a liability if you run up on any rocks with it. With how it's mounted it would be very easy to catch the edge of the guard on some rocks and get it ripped off or pull your bumper in various ways. The underside of my bumper is toast and that guard would just make it worse. I chopped my OEM bumper for more clearance.

I installed the Dehtloff trans skid plate. Love it and it's been bashed up a few times now.

- Going to try out this dog cover for the rear seats as it covers the door sills too- https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07DCS4F82/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
- Bakflip x4s will also be going on, now that someone confirmed the fit. - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07DCS4F82/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
- Lights - switch pro looked like it had great fit and finish, solid custom configs (pricey though) https://store.switchpros.com/sp-9100-switch-panel-power-system / KC Flex Era 4 lights (4) https://www.kchilites.com/flex-era-4-2-light-system.html / Rack lights - https://www.kchilites.com/2-c-series-c2-led-area-flood-light-system-328.html OR https://luxlightingsystems.com/coll...ock-light-kit-for-rvs-8-piece-ground-coverage





- Lastly, let me know if I'm overlooking something you feel is important to owning a power wagon, ram truck in general for offroad or daily usage. I know there are a lot of guys out there that push these things to the max and you have a lot of cool toys to go with them.


Appreciate the help and look forward to your tips and advice, it's always better to listen to those wiser than yourself!

 

[LateToTheParty]

I think I'm going to go with this cover. Is it thick? Crazy how much money covercraft wants for stuff that doesn't protect the door sills too.

It is thick on the bottom where their nails hit, but the back and sides are a little thinner. So far it has held up great. Typically it sees action from our 65 & 70lb Doodles, but with a little use from a buddies lab and bully.

 

[GeneralClortho]

- Mickey Thompson A/T Baja Boss 35's ( Seeing good reviews on these for driveability and wet performance)

- Amsoil everything! - I plan on driving this truck back and changing all the fluids when I get home with it (2k mi drive). I want to change all the case fluids prior to doing the line-x seal.

A coworker has those tires and he hates them because they are so noisy, if that matters to you. I am running 35x12.5 KO2's and they are great and quiet and zero rubbing anywhere with the stock PW wheels.

For your Hemi, Amsoil is not a certified oil and could give a reason not to cover your warranty in an engine failure. I love Amsoil and my father was a dealer, but these Hemi's tend to go boom and you need to use a specific oil that is certified (it is in the owner's manual twice). I am using Pennzoil Ultra Platinum synthetic, and I changed it at 500 miles (which quieted down the engine noise) and will change it every 5000 miles despite the 10k oil change recommendation. It isn't a Toyota, lol.

I have a German Shepherd that rides inside, so I ordered the truck with vinyl seats and floors...so thankful for that.

 

[el_barto]

For your Hemi, Amsoil is not a certified oil and could give a reason not to cover your warranty in an engine failure. I love Amsoil and my father was a dealer, but these Hemi's tend to go boom and you need to use a specific oil that is certified (it is in the owner's manual twice). I am using Pennzoil Ultra Platinum synthetic, and I changed it at 500 miles (which quieted down the engine noise) and will change it every 5000 miles despite the 10k oil change recommendation. It isn't a Toyota, lol.

Amsoil 0W40 Signature Series meets the Chrysler MS-12633 specification

 

[GeneralClortho]

Amsoil 0W40 Signature Series meets the Chrysler MS-12633 specification

Well that's good news. When I researched it months ago, I could not find that information. Thanks!

 

[AnthonyD1978]

A coworker has those tires and he hates them because they are so noisy, if that matters to you. I am running 35x12.5 KO2's and they are great and quiet and zero rubbing anywhere with the stock PW wheels.

For your Hemi, Amsoil is not a certified oil and could give a reason not to cover your warranty in an engine failure. I love Amsoil and my father was a dealer, but these Hemi's tend to go boom and you need to use a specific oil that is certified (it is in the owner's manual twice). I am using Pennzoil Ultra Platinum synthetic, and I changed it at 500 miles (which quieted down the engine noise) and will change it every 5000 miles despite the 10k oil change recommendation. It isn't a Toyota, lol.

I have a German Shepherd that rides inside, so I ordered the truck with vinyl seats and floors...so thankful for that.

Honestly, I just use the dealer for my synthetic oil changes. I just use the service coupon and basically get the labor for free and it ends up being the same price as doing it myself.

I use Amsoil in my diffs though and do it myself. It gave me an excuse to swap the diff covers with AEV covers. This should make diff changes much quicker now. I think the dealer quoted me like $400 to do the diffs fluids hahaha.

 

[CJTEX]

Ok so now I'd like to have a better exhaust note and possibly get rid of that muffler within sight. Would really like to not have drone as my commute is 25 miles but I've read mixed reviews on every kit out there. Anyone have a honest to God broken in system that doesn't drone?

 

[Crusty old shellback]

That ugly "muffler" in the wheelwell is just a resonator. Cut it off and put a nice pipe and tip on it and tuck it in like it should be. A little louder other than when crusing at steady speed and no drone. I love it.

 

[CJTEX]

I put the same tires on my PW in July. I like them so far. No snow yet.

Orvis For the rear seat dog hammock. I tried a bunch of others and they never lasted a year with my Lab. Some even less. Wasted money. These hold up.


https://www.orvis.com/grip-tight-quilted-hose-off-hammock-seat-protector/20JF.html

I found some interior door protectors on Amazon. They're so-so, but better than nothing. Still looking for something better on that end.

Did you go E or D rated on the bajas?

Also,

- Settled on diamondback cover with front runner mounts instead with the other kits. Going to pick up their 13" bin and 4 straps
- Waiting to hear back on the transmission protection mount for newer PWs(think I read the owner needed to redesign)
- Tires, bed cover, line x under truck, tint, PPF black two tone area and AEV F/R diff. covers are the first things going on in 2021

**Lights won't be until spring cause they're freaking expensive and on back order anyway lol. It will be KC flex 4 on the front and their rock lights under the truck**


**still trying to nail down what I want to do with this exhaust setup, I like the sound of this glass pack but I know they don't last**