Re: [a/s] RAM 3500 gear ratios

["Robert D. ' Sandy ' and Ann Noyes" <boojum@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Just one observation on the rear-end ratio you might want to keep in mind: with my 3.54 at 1600 rpm (peak 
torque for the Cummins 5.9L) I am cruising at 60+.  I have gotten as high at 18+ mpg at this speed, but not 
regularly.  I pull the hills just fine.  I got over Donner Summit fine and that is 7200 feet and got over 
everything between Reno and Ely just fine and so on.  The only tough pull I found was Camp Verde in 
Arizona to Payson.  Stopped twice to cool the engine and transmission (250 degrees) but no lack of power.  
Yes, I have modified the engine with a fuel plate to raise the hp from 150 to 250 and torque form 400 to 575 - 
600.  New torque convertor to handle the power, exhaust brake, torque lock and valve body.  The valve body 
from BD allows OD cruising rather than third with the automatic.  Without the after-market valve body there 
is not enough oil flow to the OD unit and you will burn it up from overheating.

Oh, yeah, mine is with the tow package, too.  I am going to add an auxiliary cooler to the already present tow 
package auxiliary trans oil cooler.  You can't have too much cooling surface for those long pulls.  And coolers 
are so much cheaper than trannies.  You only have to need it once.

If you really want to get some good skinny on the Dodge Cummin TD, go to www.tstproducts.com and sign 
on to there listbot which works just like the Airstream list.  Tons of good info.  I followed all the repeated 
substantiated  --  by owner testimonial  -- suggestion and wound up with a great package that has not failed 
and pull just great.  BTW, the nautical installation of the 5.9L Cummins generates ~350HP.  You won't hurt it 
at 250.

Write with any further questions.

L8R 

Keep in mind your cruising speed.