Post Your Tow Rig!

[MBood82]

Looks like I get to be the first one!

[Jeepin Jason]

Great looking truck! :thumbsup:

[6DoF]

old tow rig, towing the new tow rig!

https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/11150416_10100271056133197_210053779904859288_n.jp g?oh=4e8e71e3b1e86ae8b8a5cdddf5f8c258&oe=5A16AFA7

[Cobound]

Ironically, I installed a trailer brake kit in this a few years ago and have been lucky to fit on my buddies goose each year and never needed to tow my Jeeps w/ this yet...well, wheeling, anyway.

I do have plans to get the JK on a single car this spring to Moab and put it to it's first real west bound trek tho, so here it is as it sits now:

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/18622317_851481359230_2193465306826763751_n.jpg?oh =9be3692b5ea45bb454a5719cc4947ad2&oe=5A15E0C0

Love it, best vehicle I've ever owned!

Yes, it is dirty as hell!

B

[MBood82]

Ironically, I installed a trailer brake kit in this a few years ago and have been lucky to fit on my buddies goose each year and never needed to tow my Jeeps w/ this yet...well, wheeling, anyway.

I do have plans to get the JK on a single car this spring to Moab and put it to it's first real west bound trek tho, so here it is as it sits now:

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/18622317_851481359230_2193465306826763751_n.jpg?oh =9be3692b5ea45bb454a5719cc4947ad2&oe=5A15E0C0

Love it, best vehicle I've ever owned!

Yes, it is dirty as hell!

B

I paid extra for the towing package on mine. Literally went out of my way to pay more get the better towing mirrors and trailer brake controller. I hated the towing mirrors for a long time, and broke the passenger side one within a few months of ownership. I now am used to them and love them but it took a while.

The trailer brake controller has literally never been used. I thought about putting trailer brakes on the ATV trailer just so I could justify having it in the truck.

[Cobound]

LOL, nice! Yeah, I towed my 18' trailer when I moved, several trips...even the Jeep to get it up here, but never once hooked up a trailer that needed the controller since :lol:

I did go w/ the factory version tho, it's super clean. Truck had the tow pkg, just not the controller. I've not looked at a new truck since I sat in this one, and I have no plans in doing so for the near future!

B

[BanditXJ]

https://i.imgur.com/YoKbmYt.jpg

[JEEPJERK]

It took me a year to sell this in '08, ****in' nobody wanted a big SUV after the gas hikes, now everyone is buying them again.

https://scontent-dft4-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/21762088_503706843324603_1703214299169992081_n.jpg ?oh=62120b85d98394121f2d1eadec30bf6e&oe=5A4FC141

[Blue XJ]

15 Laramie, tows like a dream.

Except when flat towing a Jeep with old hard tires on a twisty icy road.

[champ]

https://i.imgur.com/ebZvmk4.jpg

[Kurt]

2012 F150 Platinum Ecoboost

https://kdfabworks.3dcartstores.com/assets/images/photos/IMG_0090.jpg

[cruiser]

:p

[MBood82]

Cruisers post reminded me I didn't actually post a picture of my "rig" actually "towing" anything. Let me correct that....

[srt8-jk]

http://i63.tinypic.com/1topqr.jpg
http://i64.tinypic.com/54ir5y.jpg

Moving to a 2015+ soon.

[thezentree]

Say, that scrambler looks familiar.

[Cobound]

That setup was a HUGE improvement over the one we took the trip before :lol:

I'll have to dig to find pix of that - epic year! :rock:

Still wondering if that Ram will make another trip, any plans before March to get rid of that Camaro :cotter: :lol:

B

[Kurt]

http://i63.tinypic.com/1topqr.jpg
http://i64.tinypic.com/54ir5y.jpg

Moving to a 2015+ soon.

How long is that gooseneck?

Im looking to get a new trailer along with a 2017 Super Duty. Was thinking a 30' gooseneck to hold 2 JK's or my JK and TJ.

[srt8-jk]

How long is that gooseneck?

Im looking to get a new trailer along with a 2017 Super Duty. Was thinking a 30' gooseneck to hold 2 JK's or my JK and TJ.


This one is a 32'. 28' deck, 4' dovetail. Works great. Eats tires though.

at 30' you may have the ass hanging on the back JK if you run spare tire carriers. JK + TJ is no issues.

[Cobound]

LOL, found a pic of it the day you drove up and showed me what you got :lol:

https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/598652_605126396550_1437131723_n.jpg?oh=a0338021e2 be97171817d4a77207e170&oe=5A68041F

Can't find any more tho, seems that phone w/ all the pix got trashed or sold immediately after the trip, cuz I have NO photos of it :(

[Kurt]

This one is a 32'. 28' deck, 4' dovetail. Works great. Eats tires though.

at 30' you may have the ass hanging on the back JK if you run spare tire carriers. JK + TJ is no issues.

Maybe I do need a 32'....The TJ is stretched on 42's so its about the length of a JKU now. :thumbsup:

[xj_man_646]

http://i63.tinypic.com/1topqr.jpg
http://i64.tinypic.com/54ir5y.jpg

Moving to a 2015+ soon.

How much for the '06? :brows: :lol:

[Cobound]

And you think yours has rust :lol:

[Cobound]

http://i63.tinypic.com/1topqr.jpg

That's a gawd damn sexxy shot, and was a downright epic year! Fawk, those looks so sweet trailered together...I miss it, but can't wait to get the JK out there :rock:

[xj_man_646]

And you think yours has rust :lol:

:confused:

edit:
Yes
https://i.imgur.com/uhuPS4w.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/HfkneiP.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/NnHIjRh.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/Pwc6pQq.jpg

[JEEPJERK]

You need some of those chrome stick on replacement rocker panels.

[Cobound]

Yeah, that's worse :lol:

What JJ said :roflmao:

[MBood82]

You need some of those chrome stick on replacement rocker panels.

And a razor.

[xj_man_646]

Yeah, that's worse :lol:

What JJ said :roflmao:

:roflmao::roflmao::roflmao:

Running 'er into the ground at this point. With that much rust and 268k miles, the truck isn't worth much.

[xj_man_646]

And a razor.

No.

[MBood82]

No.

Do you own a mirror, son?

[xj_man_646]

Do you own a mirror, son?

Several.

[Nefarious]

:confused:

edit:
Yes
https://i.imgur.com/uhuPS4w.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/HfkneiP.jpg


https://i.imgur.com/SlUPWTz.gif

[xj_man_646]

:lol:

[FUBAR]

https://i.pinimg.com/736x/ef/50/3f/ef503f590ddcb9e3ab373d5858aaaa5f--cartoon-characters-fred.jpg

[nblehm]

https://i.imgur.com/SlUPWTz.gif

I'm sure he'll move here and bring that rust bucket.

[xj_man_646]

I'm sure he'll move here and bring that rust bucket.

And why would that matter to you? Its not like this truck is worth anything to anyone at this point. Driving it until the wheels fall off, or something :lol:

[nblehm]

And why would that matter to you? Its not like this truck is worth anything to anyone at this point. Driving it until the wheels fall off, or something :lol:
Because all kind of people are moving here and bringing their pos rust belt cars with them. Leave that **** behind, it sucks for everybody here

*edit it was a joke, because I've talked with Nefarious about it before.

[Nefarious]

We don't need the "wheels falling off" event to happen on our fair highways and kill a person who actually belongs here :f2:

[JEEPJERK]

Move there James. Kill them all.

[xj_man_646]

Because all kind of people are moving here and bringing their pos rust belt cars with them. Leave that **** behind, it sucks for everybody here

*edit it was a joke, because I've talked with Nefarious about it before.
I know it was a joke, but I still fail to see how it harms anyone or anything simply driving a rusted out car in a state which typically doesn't see it. If it's not going to be on the market...why does it matter? I understand the frustration of typically not worrying about rust when looking at used vehicles, only to find that a vehicle which was transplanted from the midwest has since been put on the market in your area and came with the rotted out rockers that we are used to around here.

That would be frustrating. Other than that...I see no harm. Please enlighten me. :lol:
We don't need the "wheels falling off" event to happen on our fair highways and kill a person who actually belongs here :f2:
You know what I meant :f2:. I'm going to take a year off work and drive circles around CO until the wheels fall off my truck. Just for you.

[fuzzy]

https://scontent-dft4-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/18582051_10203122481418371_3016789983162049063_n.j pg?oh=f9ba99484720a4e4a7a8d8bc24c832c1&oe=5A649AFE


:chug:

[FUBAR]

Things are looking good in Hicksville:thumbsup:

[fuzzy]

Things are looking good in Hicksville:thumbsup:

Yeah not too bad. I get to drag pop's boat out on occasion.

Start new gig in a union shop tomorrow, was going to make a post about it, but you know, satan prolly still comes up here to spy... :D

:chug:

[champ]

Now with 100% more nighttime, blurry towing!

https://i.imgur.com/QtvHDdE.jpg

[6DoF]

so this happened, the 2500 is still rollin great! actually the weekend after that the wife's Grand rolled 220,000 too. maybe we'll do less miles being in Pitt, i can only hope because her 'vette finished this summer with 35,000 on it even.

https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/23517951_10100824745405457_7796779951709950221_n.j pg?oh=4b0fb02fdfdd3ca14b1742632c5894cc&oe=5A934CE8

[xj_man_646]

The guy who racked up 750k on his 'Vette really made me start thinking about something like that for a DD. Good MPG, fun, RWD, manual trans, and can still handle a weekend road trip with the gf.

My truck turned over 270k this week. Still going strong, although it is rotting away quickly.

[Cobound]

The guy who racked up 750k on his 'Vette really made me start thinking about something like that for a DD. Good MPG, fun, RWD, manual trans, and can still handle a weekend road trip with the gf.

My truck turned over 270k this week. Still going strong, although it is rotting away quickly.

Yes. All of this...and it's why I drive the piss out of my stuff. That's what it is for! They get all of what you mentioned, and are fun as hell. Drive it!

I'd get another Vette in a heartbeat, drive it in the rain, anywhere I didn't need to haul too much gear or more than another person...it'd be driven!

Honestly, I'd rather sell my Harley and have a Vette, and would've if I had the room!

[6DoF]

The guy who racked up 750k on his 'Vette really made me start thinking about something like that for a DD. Good MPG, fun, RWD, manual trans, and can still handle a weekend road trip with the gf.

My truck turned over 270k this week. Still going strong, although it is rotting away quickly.

current generation 'vette's are like jeeps, the resale is STUPID ... until you get to past generations. we got ours brand new in total base trim, and would do it again for sure. it's everything you said and more, it has been great. knock on wood, but 2 seasons with 36k and it's not been to the shop once either.

now there is a minor caveat to this ... i have driven it on a few 8h road trips by myself now, and that gets a bit old for me. 1) gota stop n stretch cuz it doesn't leave much room for a big guy to shift around 2) it gets hot, once the whole thing heat soaks the entire trans tunnel is super warm, plus it's all glass and the sun bakes you. i basically have to have the ac on full tilt on a warm summer day to have any chance at all. that said, it's a few hours to get to that point.

[Cobound]

Honestly, I can't wait until I can swing another one...I told my wife just the other day that I'd still be driving it if we had space. Hell, w/ no snow and the weather what it is, as long as I didn't have those damn "no freeze" tires, I'd be rocking the highways with it as long as I could up here in da nort! :lol:

[6DoF]

true statement ... the Comp 2 tires get a little suspect below like 50deg :lol: yes, we replaced the run-flats with real tires, way better.

on that note, those cars have amazing traction control systems in them and you CAN buy good actual winter-only tires for the stock wheels too! throw 2-300lbs of sand in the back strapped down for safety and you'd be better off then 98% of ppl driving around town in the winter back in the day. if Mels jeep died a horrible death this winter, that's my plan.

[Cobound]

:rock: :lol:

[xj_man_646]

I have definitely thought about DD'ing one in winter. :lol:

[nblehm]

I work on a dudes vette that dd's it snow or shine

Also my mom bought a 67 camaro when she was 18 (still has it) and she just put a few buckets of wheel weights in the trunk and had snow tires

[6DoF]

I work on a dudes vette that dd's it snow or shine

Also my mom bought a 67 camaro when she was 18 (still has it) and she just put a few buckets of wheel weights in the trunk and had snow tires

lead ftw to take up the least space!!

if someone suggested driving a 4x2 RWD in the snow now, everyone would look at you like you had three heads. the social conditioning is amazing.

[MBood82]

lead ftw to take up the least space!!

Lead is dense but a bucket of wheel weights would have a lot of void space. A bag of sand or something would likely have been equally as effective. :p

if someone suggested driving a 4x2 RWD in the snow now, everyone would look at you like you had three heads. the social conditioning is amazing.

My wife DD's her Challenger with snow tires and I used to DD my Grand Marquis/Crown Victoria/Magnum with snow tires. All V8, all RWD, all fookin tanks in the snow. Hell, my 4wd truck has had the 4wd engaged a handful of times in the near 3 years I've owned it, mostly because I drove into a snow bank for fun.

[FUBAR]

Sand bags would be less likely to shift around corners to.

I put blizztecks on my RWD car and it gets around like it's 4x4. Common sense goes a long way when driving in the snow.

[JEEPJERK]

My ex-wife's mom was into Buicks, so we inherited a couple of Skylarks when we were a young couple. I had one for my winter car, I threw the most aggressive/cheapest snow tires I could find on that thing, and it would go anywhere. I'm still a RWD guy, but that thing was amazing.

http://storage.canalblog.com/98/42/620189/57716582.jpg

[FUBAR]

When I lived in Atlanta it was always fun to watch people from the South try to drive in snow. Or even better yet, watch them try to drive in freezing rain.

And they all drove to the store to buy all the bread and milk

[xj_man_646]

Lead is dense but a bucket of wheel weights would have a lot of void space. A bag of sand or something would likely have been equally as effective. :p


Sand bags would be less likely to shift around corners to.

I put blizztecks on my RWD car and it gets around like it's 4x4. Common sense goes a long way when driving in the snow.

If we are talking 5 gallon buckets....have you ever tried to move a full 5 gallon bucket of wheel weights? Not easy.

[MBood82]

If we are talking 5 gallon buckets....have you ever tried to move a full 5 gallon bucket of wheel weights? Not easy.

https://www.thehulltruth.com/sportfishing-charters-forum/266413-how-much-does-5-gal-bucket-lead-weigh.html

http://www.traditionaloven.com/building/beach-sand/convert-gal-of-beach-sand-to-pound-beach-sand-lb.html

As noted in the first link, the void space will be the deciding factor on the lead weights. Likely ends up weighing more than the sand but you can't use the wheel weights to spread on the ice your car is stuck on for traction, can you?

[6DoF]

Common sense goes a long way when driving in the snow.

this

[6DoF]

https://www.thehulltruth.com/sportfishing-charters-forum/266413-how-much-does-5-gal-bucket-lead-weigh.html

http://www.traditionaloven.com/building/beach-sand/convert-gal-of-beach-sand-to-pound-beach-sand-lb.html

As noted in the first link, the void space will be the deciding factor on the lead weights. Likely ends up weighing more than the sand but you can't use the wheel weights to spread on the ice your car is stuck on for traction, can you?


i'd rather do what the OP was talking about and melt it all down into flat slabs to lay back there. extra points for putting in holes and bolting it to the car.

[FUBAR]

If we are talking 5 gallon buckets....have you ever tried to move a full 5 gallon bucket of wheel weights? Not easy.

If you take a corner fast, that 5 gallon bucket will slide and/or tip. I haul 5 gallon buckets of paint in my truck a lot and they slide.

[6DoF]

http://www.stingrayforums.com/forum/attachments/c7-wheels-tires/37447d1446139439-nokian-snow-tires-available-z51-sizes-imageuploadedbycorvette-stingray-forum1446139438.959540.jpg

[nblehm]

A bucket of wheel weights doesn't have a whole lot of good areas. And they are heavy as ****.

[6DoF]

if you are REALLY worried about the voids in a bucket-o-wheel weights ... just fill em in with cement!! i'd also recommend a re-bar loop at that point to lift it by

[JEEPJERK]

I think you'd get pretty good traction with a few hundred wheel weights spread out on the ice.

[FUBAR]

if you are REALLY worried about the voids in a bucket-o-wheel weights ... just fill em in with cement!! i'd also recommend a re-bar loop at that point to lift it by

It's not the voids in the bucket, it's the void between the bucket and the inside of the truck bed. Any thing will slide around the truck bed whether it's a bucket of cement or a dead body. But something like sand bags have less of a tendency to slide around the bed area because they're dense, heavy, and have a low center of gravity.

[xj_man_646]

Weren’t we talking about putting them in a trunk? I’m assuming carpeted.

[FUBAR]

Whateva :rolleyes:

[xj_man_646]

I wouldn't put an unsecured 5 gal bucket of wheel weights in a truck bed either.

[Blue XJ]

I put top soil bags in my truck instead of sand. That way in the spring time I can fill in the low spots in my yard with the topsoil and they are gone. The sand bags can't really be used for much and take up space sitting all year.

[Dennis]

I put top soil bags in my truck instead of sand. That way in the spring time I can fill in the low spots in my yard with the topsoil and they are gone. The sand bags can't really be used for much and take up space sitting all year.I mix sand with the top soil to improve the drainage from our very clay dirt. I'f needed this year, I'll get both. Thanks for the idea.

[Blue XJ]

I mix sand with the top soil to improve the drainage from our very clay dirt. I'f needed this year, I'll get both. Thanks for the idea.

:chug: I got sick of having bags of sand laying around and breaking open, so I get a bag of play sand for the kids sandbox and 5-6 bags of topsoil. It never goes to waste.

[champ]

Decided to level the truck (+1" taller rear block), remove the ridiculously large air dam, and slap on a set of 33's.

https://i.imgur.com/6yRrMWX.jpg

[Cobound]

Nice. I’d like to do a leveling kit, toss on some 33’s...I either do it before MOAB real quick or focus on it w/ more changes when I’m back. Hmmm....

[awheelterd]

Those wheels tho :yuk:

[xj_man_646]

Those wheels tho :yuk:

Are you on crack?

[champ]

Those wheels tho :yuk:

These? https://www.methodracewheels.com/products/nv-machined

Meh... I like 'em.

[MBood82]

These? https://www.methodracewheels.com/products/nv-machined

Meh... I like 'em.

I looked a long time to find wheels that fit my truck that weren't all blingy, bro'd out, overly fake looking bull****. Those wheels were in the contention for me because they were a nice, fairly classic look. In the end I went with the same company, just the Fat Five version instead.

https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0116/6842/products/MR_302_Matte_Black_Web.png?v=1499275720

[bbaCJ8]

Nice. I’d like to do a leveling kit, toss on some 33’s...I either do it before MOAB real quick or focus on it w/ more changes when I’m back. Hmmm....
Stock Ram tires are already 33", FYI. They're just narrow. Leveling kit and 295/60R20 is a fairly common upgrade, ends up just shy of 34". 33x12.5R20 would look good too and will fit with or without leveling kit.

These? https://www.methodracewheels.com/products/nv-machined

Meh... I like 'em.
I've always been a fan of those as well.

I looked a long time to find wheels that fit my truck that weren't all blingy, bro'd out, overly fake looking bull****. Those wheels were in the contention for me because they were a nice, fairly classic look. In the end I went with the same company, just the Fat Five version instead.

https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0116/6842/products/MR_302_Matte_Black_Web.png?v=1499275720
Not bad. They look like Rockstars with the douchebaggery removed. Kinda similar to early AEV Pintler.

[champ]

Not bad. They look like Rockstars with the douchebaggery removed. Kinda similar to early AEV Pintler.

My thoughts exactly.

It's not the easiest task to find a set of wheels that don't scream giant douche. :roflmao:

[Cobound]

Yeah, I checked the conversation sizes and figured the 33s would fit, thanx for confirming...would really like the leveling kit, 295s...really not planning anything more on the daily driver.

Sean, do you know if the AEV Mesa Rim will fit a Stock Ram w/o needing new rod ends - read that those may need swapping to fit :dunno:

Those Method rims are sharp!

MBood’s Ram looks great, would like to match that!

Cuz I’m a cheap fuk, probably just stick w/ factory rims and spend my money on the tires :p

[bbaCJ8]

Sean, do you know if the AEV Mesa Rim will fit a Stock Ram w/o needing new rod ends - read that those may need swapping to fit :dunno:
Yes, the low profile tie rod ends are only needed with the AEV suspension. We move them on the knuckle to optimize geometry and minimize tire scrub, unlike most aftermarket suspensions. Stock they should fit just fine.

[Cobound]

Stock they fit fine...if I use a leveling kit they fit fine...ONLY needed w/ an AEV or larger lift?

[MBood82]

Stock they fit fine...if I use a leveling kit they fit fine...ONLY needed w/ an AEV or larger lift?

Sounds like only if you use their knuckle. If you use the stock knuckle on a leveling kit with the Mesa wheel you should be fine.

Once you go to a 3"+ lift and get a new spindle then you do need to get a different wheel, most kits say you need a 20 inch rim to clear the new spindle height. It's another reason I decided to go with the Bilstein option, I didn't want a 20 inch rim. I want some meat on the tire.

[Cobound]

I have a factory 20”...I’ll maybe Stick w/ that and go with 295/60/20...looking at the Bilstein strut vs. spacer.

[MBood82]

I have a factory 20”...I’ll maybe Stick w/ that and go with 295/60/20...looking at the Bilstein strut vs. spacer.

go bilstein. spacer risks upper control arm issues.

[Cobound]

That link you sent me was perfect! Totally doing the Bilstein!

Thanx!

[bbaCJ8]

Sounds like only if you use their knuckle. If you use the stock knuckle on a leveling kit with the Mesa wheel you should be fine.

Once you go to a 3"+ lift and get a new spindle then you do need to get a different wheel, most kits say you need a 20 inch rim to clear the new spindle height. It's another reason I decided to go with the Bilstein option, I didn't want a 20 inch rim. I want some meat on the tire.
Correct, only requires our TRE with our lift/knuckle.

I have a factory 20”...I’ll maybe Stick w/ that and go with 295/60/20...looking at the Bilstein strut vs. spacer.
Factory wheel size is irrelevant, nothing else changes on the vehicle. But yes if you have 20s already there's not much reason to change unless you just want different wheels. You'll have to keep an eye on backside clearance to the tires, that's the case on most newer trucks.

go bilstein. spacer risks upper control arm issues.
The Bilstein setup is nice for sure, we actually used those struts in conjunction with custom spacers until our custom struts were available. But they're no different from a geometry standpoint than spacers. It exceeds the UBJ and CV angles at full droop just like a cheap spacer lift would. Normal spacers go between the top of the strut and the upper frame mount. Bilstein's setup has longer struts with multiple mounting grooves for the lower spring bucket. It's adjustable from roughly 0-2" lift, but basically acts like a spacer on the bottom instead of the top. The different lift heights also change spring preload rather than just static ride height. Not bashing the Bilstein setup, but don't kid yourself that it doesn't risk the same issues as any other leveling kit. Lift the front without correcting geometry and you're going to exceed the travel of upper balljoints and CVs.

[Cobound]

Correct, only requires our TRE with our lift/knuckle.


Factory wheel size is irrelevant, nothing else changes on the vehicle. But yes if you have 20s already there's not much reason to change unless you just want different wheels. You'll have to keep an eye on backside clearance to the tires, that's the case on most newer trucks.


The Bilstein setup is nice for sure, we actually used those struts in conjunction with custom spacers until our custom struts were available. But they're no different from a geometry standpoint than spacers. It exceeds the UBJ and CV angles at full droop just like a cheap spacer lift would. Normal spacers go between the top of the strut and the upper frame mount. Bilstein's setup has longer struts with multiple mounting grooves for the lower spring bucket. It's adjustable from roughly 0-2" lift, but basically acts like a spacer on the bottom instead of the top. The different lift heights also change spring preload rather than just static ride height. Not bashing the Bilstein setup, but don't kid yourself that it doesn't risk the same issues as any other leveling kit. Lift the front without correcting geometry and you're going to exceed the travel of upper balljoints and CVs.

Great info. With all that said, with me just looking for a set of 295/60/20 and factory or Mesa rims, what leveling kit would you recommend?

If I wanted a 35x12.50x20 would I need to lift front AND rear? Would prefer to keep it simple, and think the 295s would suffice for what I'm looking for. I'm coming up on having this 5 years, would like to keep it another 2-3 or more. Instead of upgrading vehicles, since I do really like it, I'll just make upgrades to the vehicle itself.

Would like to avoid needing a chip to correct speedo as well.

Thanks for the input gents!

B

[bbaCJ8]

Great info. With all that said, with me just looking for a set of 295/60/20 and factory or Mesa rims, what leveling kit would you recommend?

If I wanted a 35x12.50x20 would I need to lift front AND rear? Would prefer to keep it simple, and think the 295s would suffice for what I'm looking for. I'm coming up on having this 5 years, would like to keep it another 2-3 or more. Instead of upgrading vehicles, since I do really like it, I'll just make upgrades to the vehicle itself.

Would like to avoid needing a chip to correct speedo as well.

Thanks for the input gents!

B
Bilstein would still be a great choice for a leveling kit, I just didn't want you to kid yourself that you wouldn't be maxxing out other components doing it. If you're trying to fit 35s I'd highly recommend the AEV kit. It's on the high end of price, but it also is for quality and design. Most other kits cut a lot of corners that ours doesn't. But if you don't plan to keep the truck that long you'd be better off from a budget standpoint just leveling it and throwing 295s on.

[Cobound]

:thumbsup: Perfect.

Yeah, I can see 2-3 more years out of it...it'll be over 100k before next spring, and that's when I tend to start looking. The fact I bought this new has me in it a bit longer, and I could easily keep it much longer, but I know me too well to think too far ahead :lol:

The minute I find a new job or get a fat bump in pay I'm likely to get a big hair up my... :roflmao:

Thanx again,

B

[MBood82]

The Bilstein setup is nice for sure, we actually used those struts in conjunction with custom spacers until our custom struts were available. But they're no different from a geometry standpoint than spacers. It exceeds the UBJ and CV angles at full droop just like a cheap spacer lift would. Normal spacers go between the top of the strut and the upper frame mount. Bilstein's setup has longer struts with multiple mounting grooves for the lower spring bucket. It's adjustable from roughly 0-2" lift, but basically acts like a spacer on the bottom instead of the top. The different lift heights also change spring preload rather than just static ride height. Not bashing the Bilstein setup, but don't kid yourself that it doesn't risk the same issues as any other leveling kit. Lift the front without correcting geometry and you're going to exceed the travel of upper balljoints and CVs.

See, I always thought that too until I dug into it a bit, I didn't understand the difference. I'd be interested to see if you have any feedback otherwise, having a manufacturer experience, relative to what I found.

The argument, straight from Bilstein, is that their shock has the same travel capabilities as a factory shock. Therefore, you can't overextend since the extended length is the exact same as a factory shock. It does stiffen up the ride a bit but I don't think it's made it overly harsh or abrasive.

The lift is accomplished by changing the spring preload (as you note) but all that does is change the static ride height. So if static ride height had the shock 50% extended at the stock height, now it's at 75% extension with the new preload.

In comparison, the spacer lift would move the whole strut assembly down by the height of the spacer, which means the static ride height is still at that 50% extension, allowing further droop, which is where the internet hive mind thinks the upper control arm issues crop up.

http://performancelifts.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/640x/040ec09b1e35df139433887a97daa66f/b/i/bil24-187053_3.jpg

https://i.ytimg.com/vi/9ijkcR68oxU/hqdefault.jpg

For what it's worth, when I had the factory struts side by side with the Bilsteins, they were the same extended length.

[bbaCJ8]

Well I guess I stand corrected. We were using them in a different application, but I got the distinct impression they were also longer than factory. Maybe there was another variable I missed/misunderstood or maybe it was a different shock entirely.

[MBood82]

Well I guess I stand corrected. We were using them in a different application, but I got the distinct impression they were also longer than factory. Maybe there was another variable I missed/misunderstood or maybe it was a different shock entirely.

They have a ton of different models, it's entirely possible that since your company was using different control arms and/or knuckles they used a longer shock to allow for more droop.

[bbaCJ8]

They have a ton of different models, it's entirely possible that since your company was using different control arms and/or knuckles they used a longer shock to allow for more droop.
We have custom Bilsteins built to our specs for all our suspensions, but when I launched the 1500 system we started with their off the shelf shocks in conjunction with spacers for the front. The lead time was pretty long for our custom ones and we needed to get product to market. Of course they were properly designed with our geometry brackets and spacers to work right, so the stock travel issues are a moot point for what we did. I could have sworn they were the 0-2" lift version, but don't care enough to go back and check. Even the ads I've seen from Bilstein advertise added suspension travel, which I would assume means extra droop since extra compression with larger tires would generally cause interference. Plus adding lift without adding droop typically leads to premature top-out and poor ride and handling because of it.

Like you said, maybe they have multiple versions to do the same job and we just used a different one than you did. They also offer a nice 60mm shock/spring upgrade. Our warehouse manager put it on his truck and really likes it.

When I can swing a new truck I've really been leaning toward a 5.0L F-150, but all these nice upgrades I could do to a Ram are pretty damn tempting too. I feel like the F-150 is a nicer all around truck, but Rams have come a LONG way over the years too and the Hemi rips. I'll be towing an 8000 lb camper frequently in the summer and my Jeep now and then so a 3/4 ton diesel is still damn tempting, but a 1/2 ton is a lot nicer for the other 25,000 miles a year I'll be driving.

[MBood82]

We have custom Bilsteins built to our specs for all our suspensions, but when I launched the 1500 system we started with their off the shelf shocks in conjunction with spacers for the front. The lead time was pretty long for our custom ones and we needed to get product to market. Of course they were properly designed with our geometry brackets and spacers to work right, so the stock travel issues are a moot point for what we did. I could have sworn they were the 0-2" lift version, but don't care enough to go back and check. Even the ads I've seen from Bilstein advertise added suspension travel, which I would assume means extra droop since extra compression with larger tires would generally cause interference. Plus adding lift without adding droop typically leads to premature top-out and poor ride and handling because of it.

Yeah, I'm still confused by their marketing, literally the graphic I used below says it maintains the same up travel and down travel but then says it increases the overall travel. Maybe they mean useful travel?

Like you said, maybe they have multiple versions to do the same job and we just used a different one than you did. They also offer a nice 60mm shock/spring upgrade. Our warehouse manager put it on his truck and really likes it.

Is the 60mm an adjustable shock as well? That sounds intriguing for when I need to replace mine, I wouldn't mind upgrading. I likely wouldn't be switching to a proper lift kit likely, mostly because I don't want to move from 17 inch rims, but I also dont' want to sit any taller. As it is I have a 6 foot, 8 inch clearance requirement. I had a hell of a time finding parking in Lansing this week, every garage was 6 foot, 7 inches! It seems all to common to run into that in cities and since I travel for sales a lot I don't want to be limited where I can go.

When I can swing a new truck I've really been leaning toward a 5.0L F-150, but all these nice upgrades I could do to a Ram are pretty damn tempting too. I feel like the F-150 is a nicer all around truck, but Rams have come a LONG way over the years too and the Hemi rips. I'll be towing an 8000 lb camper frequently in the summer and my Jeep now and then so a 3/4 ton diesel is still damn tempting, but a 1/2 ton is a lot nicer for the other 25,000 miles a year I'll be driving.

I ride in a lot of vehicles with my reps, they usually have half ton trucks or Tahoe/Suburbans these days. Sitting on the passenger side, they all ride the same stock and have similar amenities. Usually the Fords "feel" the fastest but I think that's a matter of perspective, they generally have the EcoBoost which is designed to feel like it has all the torque off the line. I think the infotainment and instrument cluster is really the biggest difference these days other than engine choice and I really like how Dodge does theirs, I think it feels the most modern and easy to use. Almost Apple like... which is scary.

I think if I did it over again I'd still buy the Ram. Especially with the RamBoxes, I absolutely love mine.

[bbaCJ8]

Yeah, I'm still confused by their marketing, literally the graphic I used below says it maintains the same up travel and down travel but then says it increases the overall travel. Maybe they mean useful travel?
Yeah I don't get it either. I don't see how useful travel would change either, because in normal driving with more spring preload it's going to use less travel than factory. Or maybe it'd be a wash, it'd use less up and more down. I guess I haven't given it enough thought. To me at the same mounting geometry, if you use more travel that means more shock travel as well.

Is the 60mm an adjustable shock as well? That sounds intriguing for when I need to replace mine, I wouldn't mind upgrading. I likely wouldn't be switching to a proper lift kit likely, mostly because I don't want to move from 17 inch rims, but I also dont' want to sit any taller. As it is I have a 6 foot, 8 inch clearance requirement. I had a hell of a time finding parking in Lansing this week, every garage was 6 foot, 7 inches! It seems all to common to run into that in cities and since I travel for sales a lot I don't want to be limited where I can go.
Pretty sure it's the same setup with multiple snap ring grooves, it's just a larger shock. It's the equivalent of a 2.5" body, they just measure it by piston size(the important part), rather than body size like everyone else. It's a more expensive kit because it also comes with new springs to fit the larger shocks, but if you're actually taxing your shocks it should perform better. He was bashing his pretty good at the dunes and said it made a big improvement.

I ride in a lot of vehicles with my reps, they usually have half ton trucks or Tahoe/Suburbans these days. Sitting on the passenger side, they all ride the same stock and have similar amenities. Usually the Fords "feel" the fastest but I think that's a matter of perspective, they generally have the EcoBoost which is designed to feel like it has all the torque off the line. I think the infotainment and instrument cluster is really the biggest difference these days other than engine choice and I really like how Dodge does theirs, I think it feels the most modern and easy to use. Almost Apple like... which is scary.

I think if I did it over again I'd still buy the Ram. Especially with the RamBoxes, I absolutely love mine.
I've always been a GM guy, but they're not even in the running for my next truck. They make a great reliable vehicle, but their calibration, programming, and torque management drives me nuts. My wife has an 09 Tahoe, and even though the 5.3/6L80E is a great combo, the programming sucks. It's a turd anywhere under 3/4 throttle. Plus I want something that'll fit 2 car seats in back and have room for 2 dogs on the floor for trips ,and the GM crew cab is tiny compared to the others.
My current truck is an 05 Chevy and has been way nicer and more reliable than either Ram I had. I loved the Rams when I had them but was realistic enough to know they weren't the best at the time. But Ram has also made the biggest steps in improving each generation as they try to catch up to the competition. They're closer than ever now, but some parts of them still feel cheaper than the GM or Ford do. But purchase cost also reflects this, and I love the tuning, power, and throttle response of the Hemi. I've never been a Ford fan but they've really grown on me the past few years. The interior space is second to none and the features and styling(inside and out) are great. The 3.5 Ecoboost is a beast for towing, but since I'll be buying a used truck and driving it for 150k+ miles I'm still not sold on its longevity and complexity. I'm leaning towards a 5.0 if I go F-150. I haven't actually driven one but anyone I've talked to who has loves them. If I were leasing I'd go Ecoboost without hesitation, but I drive too much for that so I want longterm reliability. It's no slouch in the power department either, it'll just need to rev more towing than the Ecoboost would. I think towing MPG will be single digit crap for any of them, so that doesn't make much difference.
I still love the thought of a newer deleted Cummins for towing and excess power on demand, but probably not enough to outweigh the increased purchase and maintenance costs along with the reduced day to day comfort and convenience. I dunno. I want a lot and I'm not ready to pay for any of the available options yet. When the time comes I'll drive a bunch of different trucks, weigh my options, and probably still not know WTF I wanna do.

[Cobound]

I'd love a diesel, but like you, can't justify the times of use vs. daily needs and added costs that come w/ it.

I'm not sold on the Ramboxes...not able to use a topper, and now that I have one, love it. I'll buy another Ram w/o hesitation.

B

[MBood82]

I'd love a diesel, but like you, can't justify the times of use vs. daily needs and added costs that come w/ it.

I'm not sold on the Ramboxes...not able to use a topper, and now that I have one, love it. I'll buy another Ram w/o hesitation.

B

I have never had a cap so I don't know the benefits of that I guess. But the RamBoxes are awesome, I literally don't think I could buy a truck again without them. I keep all my tools in them, plus some stuff, and still have more room in them for periodic storage. No need for a tool box in the bed that you can't reach without climbing in the bed, no tools clanking around in the living room, err cab. It's perfect.

That said, I still want a classic 80s style roll bar and the Ram Boxes essentially make that impossible. So they aren't perfect...

[Cobound]

The sacrifice:p

[bbaCJ8]

Encouraging to hear that guys with newer Rams love them.

I'm torn on Ramboxes. If I get a half ton I'll most likely get a 5.5ft bed. For 95% DD use the shorter wheelbase and added maneuverability will outweigh the cargo space of a bigger bed. Parking my current crew cab 6.5ft bed truck suuuuuucks. With an already tiny bed I'd have a hard time giving up any more space for Ramboxes. The organized, easily accessible storage would be great for ratchet straps, tools, etc, but the ridiculously small bed would suck for almost anything a truck bed is needed for.

[FUBAR]

Encouraging to hear that guys with newer Rams love them.

I'm torn on Ramboxes. If I get a half ton I'll most likely get a 5.5ft bed. For 95% DD use the shorter wheelbase and added maneuverability will outweigh the cargo space of a bigger bed. Parking my current crew cab 6.5ft bed truck suuuuuucks. With an already tiny bed I'd have a hard time giving up any more space for Ramboxes. The organized, easily accessible storage would be great for ratchet straps, tools, etc, but the ridiculously small bed would suck for almost anything a truck bed is needed for.

Agreed. One thing I didn't like about my old styleside bed was the bed space it took away.

[MBood82]

Encouraging to hear that guys with newer Rams love them.

I'm torn on Ramboxes. If I get a half ton I'll most likely get a 5.5ft bed. For 95% DD use the shorter wheelbase and added maneuverability will outweigh the cargo space of a bigger bed. Parking my current crew cab 6.5ft bed truck suuuuuucks. With an already tiny bed I'd have a hard time giving up any more space for Ramboxes. The organized, easily accessible storage would be great for ratchet straps, tools, etc, but the ridiculously small bed would suck for almost anything a truck bed is needed for.

The bed width is still 4 feet, you loose the awkward space between the front and back of the wheel wells but unless you are putting yards of top soil in it or packing it super tight I doubt you'd notice.

[Cobound]

Yep, the bed is like a rectangle box with the Ramboxes, all straight sides. I didn’t find that as odd as I thought I would...but using a rack might be tough, less options (possibly) and definitely no option to use a topper, ever. Now that I have one I’m not giving it up!

I keep some stuff under my rear seat and in the cubbies to each side of the rear seat floors. Not as big as the Ramboxes, but handy enough for me.

Got my shocks today, gonna get them on this week...haven’t got my tires yet, but thinking Nitto Ridge Grapplers or Cooper Discoverer STT Pro. BFG KO don’t come in 295/60/20 :squint:

Thoughts on other 295/60/20 tire choices?

[xj_man_646]

... Parking my current crew cab 6.5ft bed truck suuuuuucks...

And here I am planning a CCLB as my next truck :lol:

I love a school bus

[6DoF]

anyone been to any auto shows this season?? we went to the Chicago show last weekend just for something to do and all unanimously decided that if buying a new 2019 truck, the only choice was a new Ram. features, fit n finish, comfort, layout, options, function, everything was better.

https://www.trucks.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/ram-1500-new-blue.jpg

[MBood82]

anyone been to any auto shows this season?? we went to the Chicago show last weekend just for something to do and all unanimously decided that if buying a new 2019 truck, the only choice was a new Ram. features, fit n finish, comfort, layout, options, function, everything was better.

https://www.trucks.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/ram-1500-new-blue.jpg

We went to the Detroit show. We enjoyed the Ram as well, I might end up picking up a 2021 or so model year.

[Cobound]

I'd love a new Ram, but not sure where I'll be w/ the choices come time I have the money to do so again. Love my '13 and may keep it a few more years. Just passing 84k, which is rare I put so few miles on in the time I've had it, but I've also had multiple vehicles I use throughout the year, so that helps.

Really digging the updates they've made tho...gonna be hard not to upgrade. However, a daughter in college and a son entering high school may keep me grounded on the new vehicle front :lol:

[nblehm]

Why do the front end of trucks get uglier every year.

[MBood82]

Why do the front end of trucks get uglier every year.

CAFE

Thanks Obama!

[Cobound]

CAFE

Thanks Obama!

Yep :rolleyes:

Still not as bad as it could be, like Jetsons bad, or 60’s concept Vehicles bad :yuk:

[JEEPJERK]

I'm going to wait and get a 2027 RamJet PartyCab with the built in wine dispenser and chilled cheese plate.

[bbaCJ8]

anyone been to any auto shows this season?? we went to the Chicago show last weekend just for something to do and all unanimously decided that if buying a new 2019 truck, the only choice was a new Ram. features, fit n finish, comfort, layout, options, function, everything was better.

https://www.trucks.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/ram-1500-new-blue.jpg
Probably a great truck, but looks like a Tundra mated with a Silverado. Rams always had such a unique look and they're really straying from that.

[xj_man_646]

I agree, Sean. Out of the previous truck generation, I liked Ram's styling the best, followed by GMC. The Ram DT front end reminds me way too much of some of the other trucks out there at the moment.

[champ]

Probably a great truck, but looks like a Tundra mated with a Silverado. Rams always had such a unique look and they're really straying from that.

*glass shattering*

My god... that belt-line is identical to a Tundra.

[bbaCJ8]

*glass shattering*

My god... that belt-line is identical to a Tundra.

To me the whole truck looks like a Tundra that someone grafted a Silverado grill onto

[Cobound]

Funny, cuz I've been thinking they've been tracking towards the Ram, not the other way around.

[nblehm]

To me the whole truck looks like a Tundra that someone grafted a Silverado grill onto

That's about perfect.

[Cobound]

Soooo....front is lifted, getting tires on it now.

I went with Bils 5100 and the 2.1" level. I netted 2.25" up front and it's sitting nose high at the moment. Just ordered a rear 1.75" spacer to get it raked up a bit again...have that on Wednesday.

Busy week...once I get the rear done on Wednesday I leave on Thursday for Duluth, MN, state hockey for a long weekend...then gone through April 1 for JP Dirt n Drive and EJS. Busy busy...still need to head to my buddy's place on Sunday to change my JK exhaust for a new Flowmaster. Woot!

Pix to come.

[bbaCJ8]

Soooo....front is lifted, getting tires on it now.

I went with Bils 5100 and the 2.1" level. I netted 2.25" up front and it's sitting nose high at the moment. Just ordered a rear 1.75" spacer to get it raked up a bit again...have that on Wednesday.

Busy week...once I get the rear done on Wednesday I leave on Thursday for Duluth, MN, state hockey for a long weekend...then gone through April 1 for JP Dirt n Drive and EJS. Busy busy...still need to head to my buddy's place on Sunday to change my JK exhaust for a new Flowmaster. Woot!

Pix to come.
I assume with the rear lift you're replacing the shocks also? Have fun with those upper bolts, they're a major PITA to get anything on the nut. We provide a cheap little press brake bracket to act as a wrench in our kits. A stubby wrench might fit, or heat and beat an old/cheap box end into a 90° to clear the bed.

[Cobound]

Not replacing shocks yet...gonna ride it out until I see it needs them, should they bottom out or something.

I'll take the info you gave on the upper bolts when I get to them tho.

Rides great, not quite level, bit more roll...tires look great, definitely a step up and down from stock :lol:

Not huge, I like it. Speedo is off by 1 MPH, meh.

Pix I have don't do it justice....so I haven't posted them yet.

[Cobound]

Not sure you can even tell here, but here it is...

Before:

No topper -
https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/28782647_915619391100_3305278772256702464_n.jpg?oh =8f0fcf7a5597aae9a6def9cf11623cbd&oe=5B4DF82B

Topper -
https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/28782942_915619396090_7911759066983038976_n.jpg?oh =ddb1f8bec44a9a34a346bd00d115e9ee&oe=5B09663B

Lift but old tires -
https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/28685766_915569870340_5403243259810021376_n.jpg?oh =943667cc92d5cbe69a19da57b5e0b4a6&oe=5B3FDD8E

After:

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/28783429_915569860360_582799312283500544_n.jpg?oh= e8df96beeba4c7215354748800bab6f2&oe=5B4302AD

Really like the Nittos, and yes...it needs a wash!

Has a slight rub on full passenger turn with the driver tire hitting the swaybar...I really have to go full turn tho, not worried about it at the moment.

[xj_man_646]

Looks pretty good!

[Cobound]

Thanks...added a couple other pix.

Man, the more I drive it the more I love it...really can tell it's a bit higher. Not absurd, but just enough.

Honestly, if I had gone the 2.8 notch and the 1.75 rear spacer I probably could've went 35s...but not a biggie. I'll see what happens w/ the rear spacer, goes in on Wed.

[Blue XJ]

We have the same truck. I've been wanting to do the same thing as well. I have a lift for it in the garage, 2.5 front with 1.125 rear. I tow a lot, I'm just nervous I won't be happy towing with it anymore if I level it. BBA almost had me sold on the AEV 4" kit, but I didn't have the cash around when I needed tires.

[Cobound]

Yeah, I went this route for cost and I didn’t need a huge tire, just a bit of a boost.

More I drove it ...Really like it!

[MBood82]

Moar photos!

[Blue XJ]

What size tires did you go with?

[Cobound]

295/60/20 Nitto Ridge Grapplers

[Blue XJ]

295/60/20 Nitto Ridge Grapplers

That's what, about an inch taller and wider than the stock 275/60's? They look good

[6DoF]

i've been thinking about a cap ... one of the high rise or bubble ones. everyone says thats 's the best thing you can do when towing an enclosed trailer, plus it would be more headroom then my current rack anyways.

[Cobound]

Real close, but enough to tell

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/29133588_916619476920_9165012042711564288_n.jpg?oh =68b2be398c9f9fb0b9302a73f2b424b2&oe=5B440BD6
https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/29186676_916619142590_8549769427942375424_n.jpg?oh =a74f5371489b7e34691e66e00954d1ee&oe=5B3E4A95

[Kurt]

Well I ditched the F150 Platinum I had and got back into a diesel.

I found this 2012 F350 6.7L Lariat with 31,000 miles on it. Got it for 6K below book value, couldn't pass it up. The truck already had the canopy, line-x, tinted front windows, Nitto Ridge Grapplers, and a 50 gallon Titan fuel tank. Ive already towed the JK with it and it tows so nice...get about 14.3 mpg towing.

I removed the chrome mirror covers, got a Bedrug, S&B intake, and set it up with Rigid lighting using my brackets.

http://www.kdfabworks.com/assets/images/photos/2012f35001.jpg

[xj_man_646]

That is a sharp truck.

Not sure what your experience with the 6.7 PSD is, but you'll probably want to add some auxiliary fuel filtration / water separation countermeasures. This engine has some of the highest out of warranty fuel system costs in the industry.

It basically seems like the newer version of your old 7.3. Is it the same color?

[Kurt]

That is a sharp truck.

Not sure what your experience with the 6.7 PSD is, but you'll probably want to add some auxiliary fuel filtration / water separation countermeasures. This engine has some of the highest out of warranty fuel system costs in the industry.

It basically seems like the newer version of your old 7.3. Is it the same color?

Its close to the same color, one of the reasons I jumped on this one. Finding a used one of this color blue is rare around here. Comparing this to my old 7.3 is night and day. Its super quiet, and has tons of power and torque, I love driving it!

I will be adding some fuel filtration to it, just having got around to that yet.

[xj_man_646]

:thumbsup:

It's nice looking. They sure do have some power.

[6DoF]

2012 with 31k ... wtf?!!? who drives a truck like that only 5k a year?!?!?

but nice score though! everything is 1000x better when you don't need to do something and have the means to simply be opportunistic :thumbsup:

[Kurt]

2012 with 31k ... wtf?!!? who drives a truck like that only 5k a year?!?!?

but nice score though! everything is 1000x better when you don't need to do something and have the means to simply be opportunistic :thumbsup:

No kidding! And it was a 2 owner truck! First owner had it for 4 years and drove it 6,000 miles. Second owner had it for 1 year and put 25,000 on it...he owns a local auto glass business and Im assuming he's the one that put the canopy on and tinted the front two windows. He traded it in on a 2018 Tundra.

I've had it for 3 months now and have already put 5K on it...

EDIT: another bonus is that it already has everything from the factory for a 5th wheel or gooseneck hitch.

[xj_man_646]

Wow. 4 years and 6,000 miles. That's insane :eek:

[nblehm]

https://i.imgur.com/zF2Z0oO.jpg

Man I am super impressed with this truck. Borrowed it to get my dead truck in moab. Got 17 mpg going 80 (as much as possible) with an empty trailer on the way out. And ended up averaging 12.4 mpg on the way home through the mountains. Pulled Vail pass at 60 mph loaded and Eisenhower hill at 60. I want smashing on it either. Truck just settled in to about 3500-3800 rpm in 5th gear and climbed probably 1/3-1/2 throttle. Towed straight at 80 with the jeep on the trailer. I liked the 8 speed, gave plenty of options for going down passes and controlling speed. Would recommend.

[Blue XJ]

You got lucky with that one, that's similar mileage to what mine gets not towing anything. I've been hovering right around 14mpg mostly highway lately, and 17 if I do all higway

[freerider15]

That's damn good!

I couldn't pull more than 40 or so on the climbs back from Moab on Vail Pass or Eisenhower, with it floored.

The readout had me at about 9mpg average towing. My 7.3 gets about 12.

The truck still drove great, but definitely was a dog on climbs.

[nblehm]

That's damn good!

I couldn't pull more than 40 or so on the climbs back from Moab on Vail Pass or Eisenhower, with it floored.

The readout had me at about 9mpg average towing. My 7.3 gets about 12.

The truck still drove great, but definitely was a dog on climbs.

Yeah I was expecting 45 or so on the climbs. I wasnt hammering it either. Itd drop to 5 maybe 4 gear, and just go. I was more than expecting to slowly drive the passes because I wasnt going to hot rod a newish borrowed truck.

[Cobound]

Damn, my Ram 1500 only gets 14 locally...it's the one thing I'm disappointed with, fuel mileage.

My buddy just picked up an '18 Duramax before our trip, had like 500 miles on it when we left, over 5k on it now :p

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/29357050_917755585150_4039730167126425600_n.jpg?_n c_cat=0&oh=38487976f0978569e6f1b696210cf91c&oe=5B679D08

I think he pulled 12-14 towing the JK on an aluminum trailer...said he got into the 20s in regular driving :dunno:

That truck is pimp as hell tho! So damn comfy. Didn't even know the trailer was back there, down the highway or over the pass. He had an older Ram Megacab before that, and wanted another one but it was like $10k more than the Chevy...hard to justify.

Anyway, I have no plans on moving away from mine any time soon, but I do wish it got better fuel mileage.

[champ]

Man I am super impressed with this truck. Borrowed it to get my dead truck in moab. Got 17 mpg going 80 (as much as possible) with an empty trailer on the way out. And ended up averaging 12.4 mpg on the way home through the mountains. Pulled Vail pass at 60 mph loaded and Eisenhower hill at 60. I want smashing on it either. Truck just settled in to about 3500-3800 rpm in 5th gear and climbed probably 1/3-1/2 throttle. Towed straight at 80 with the jeep on the trailer. I liked the 8 speed, gave plenty of options for going down passes and controlling speed. Would recommend.

Do you know if that truck has the 3.21 or 3.92 gears?

Contemplating on getting into a Ram. :cotter:

[nblehm]

I'm not sure, I'll ask. That experience made me want :lol:

I did the actual math not just trusting the read out. 17.2 on the tank to moab. 10 on one tank and 13 on the other.

[Blue XJ]

Dang, I filled up last night, 14.7 with 90% of that tank was highway driving. Towing my camper I'm happy to pull double digits! Maybe something is wrong mine.

[xj_man_646]

That is surprisingly low for a newer truck, IMO. My 2005 GMC regularly gets 15+ with remote start idle time, mostly city driving.

When the 5.7 Hemi first came out, one of the jokes was that it made small block HP, but got big block MPG :lol:. Admittedly, I do not have any seat time in a newer 5.7 truck, only newer EcoDiesels. We were typically seeing 26-29 MPG empty and 18-20 MPG loaded down with those trucks, on the highway.

FWIW, depending on the year of the vehicle, you can trust the cluster MPG calculation. One of the manufacturers was in trouble some years ago for inaccuracy related to the vehicle-displayed MPG calculation, and they're required to maintain a certain level of accuracy now (with OEM components and tuning, anyway).

[Cobound]

Yeah, I could be wrong on his mileage towing, I didn't really pay that much attention, just know it worked like a dream and got into the 20's w/o towing.

Mine, on the other hand, as you mentioned, terrible mileage :squint:

[Blue XJ]

Terrible mileage, but far from small block power at least

[nblehm]

Man, I've been contemplating all day about getting a new truck. The ram really made a good impression on me. I'd have to ditch a couple cars to make it happen though. Wouldn't mind a sierra with a 6.2 :pimp:

[bbaCJ8]

I'm right there with you guys, the Hemi is no joke. Every time I drive a Hemi Ram at work, even with 35-36" tires, I'm damn impressed. I still like the F150 better all around, but the 5.0 is a small V8 that likes to rev. Not sure how I'd like it towing a big camper, where the Hemi has a lot more low end grunt and shouldn't need to rev like mad to do the job.

[Blue XJ]

You'd think, but mine barely gets out of 5th while towing. 68-70 on the highway is about 3200rpm for me, it never shifts.

[bbaCJ8]

You'd think, but mine barely gets out of 5th while towing. 68-70 on the highway is about 3200rpm for me, it never shifts.
Well yeah, it's still a gasser, but I'm worried a 5.0L would want to spin 4k+ to do the same thing.

[champ]

And to think... my little 'ol 'torque-less' 5.3 happily sits at 2200rpm in 5th and downshifts into 4th @ 3200rpm on a larger hill. :confused:

[bbaCJ8]

And to think... my little 'ol 'torque-less' 5.3 happily sits at 2200rpm in 5th and downshifts into 4th @ 3200rpm on a larger hill. :confused:
Depends what you're towing. My 6.0L 2500HD doesn't work too hard pulling my 1 ton TJ on trailer. Towing my ~8k 30ft camper it works WAY harder. It's either screaming or shifting far too often on the highway, its happy place is 3rd gear about 60mph and single digit MPG pretty much no matter what. I don't like going that slow, especially on the highway. Going to try towing with my wife's 09 5.3 Tahoe this year. I'm hoping the aero advantage and 6 speed work well. Adding helper bags, brake controller, and trans cooler so it's not overtaxing it.

[nblehm]

And to think... my little 'ol 'torque-less' 5.3 happily sits at 2200rpm in 5th and downshifts into 4th @ 3200rpm on a larger hill. :confused:

Larger hill in the midwest is what 200 ft 2% grade? :f2:

[champ]

Biggest one locally (that I can think of) is a mile of 7%.

[fuzzy]

That is surprisingly low for a newer truck, IMO. My 2005 GMC regularly gets 15+ with remote start idle time, mostly city driving.

When the 5.7 Hemi first came out, one of the jokes was that it made small block HP, but got big block MPG :lol:. Admittedly, I do not have any seat time in a newer 5.7 truck, only newer EcoDiesels. We were typically seeing 26-29 MPG empty and 18-20 MPG loaded down with those trucks, on the highway.

FWIW, depending on the year of the vehicle, you can trust the cluster MPG calculation. One of the manufacturers was in trouble some years ago for inaccuracy related to the vehicle-displayed MPG calculation, and they're required to maintain a certain level of accuracy now (with OEM components and tuning, anyway).


My 00 silverado does well to pull 14's in the summer mixed driving sometimes pulling a boat, I put the remote start on and now I struggle to get much above 12's and often worse. But summer gas came in and I picked back up a mpg or 2, and I've shortened the remote start time.

But my poor truck only really goes to work and back 6 mile round trip so it runs just long enough to get warmed up only to be shut off.

I plan to get a scangaugeII next check so I can have a trans temp gauge and all the pid data from the brain.

:chug:

[Kurt]

Truck did great towing to Moab and back. My trailer on the other hand....needs a re-wire. Barely getting any braking out of it, which was noticeable coming down Deadman pass outside Pendleton, OR (7 miles of 6% grade). I replaced the brakes on the back axle and added them to the front....still the same. So I think its probably a bad ground, so I've decided to just do fresh wiring and decking.

https://kdfabworks.3dcartstores.com/assets/images/photos/IMG_4489.jpg

[6DoF]

Truck did great towing to Moab and back. My trailer on the other hand....needs a re-wire. Barely getting any braking out of it, which was noticeable coming down Deadman pass outside Pendleton, OR (7 miles of 6% grade). I replaced the brakes on the back axle and added them to the front....still the same. So I think its probably a bad ground, so I've decided to just do fresh wiring and decking.

[IMG]https://kdfabworks.3dcartstores.com/assets/images/photos/IMG_4489.jpg[IMG]

maybe the Ford just can't handle that much weight :dunno: :f2:

[bbaCJ8]

I bought a larger camper (not any heavier, I don't think, but it's 4' longer at 31') and it's like 9" taller. Old camper pulled at 11.5-14.5mpg depending on speed. New camper doesn't appear to be any worse, but it is more aerodynamic even though the parachute is higher in the air. Haven't been able to tow it far enough to be certain yet. It's funny when it goes into 4 cylinder mode when in town and makes it sound like some ****box car with a fart cannon trying to hold too high of gear.

Friend has a camper that is the same size as ours and pulls it with a GMT900 Tahoe (forget year, 2008 maybe?) with a 4L65e in it. Ate a transmission and gets 9mpg regardless of speed.

Kind of would like a Duramax for towing a camper because even with air bags, giant brakes, Duratracs, and giant front and rear sway bars it is a bit irritating to tow something that tall in a heavy crosswind. However, I think we'll end up with a Super C motorhome before long so it won't be necessary.
Yeah aero and wind suck with big campers. We recently bought my in-laws 31ft camper, but I've towed it quite a few times with different trucks before it was ours. It comes in right around 8k lb loaded for a trip, not light but not awful, but the aero is what kills it. Feels more like 12k if you try to go 70mph....might as well be pulling a billboard. Most of the newer campers have decentish front surfaces, this one does not. My 2005 6.0L Silverado will drag it wherever I need to, but trying to maintain highway speeds is annoying. 4th bogs on the slightest incline and 3rd revs annoyingly high for cruising. Gonna try towing with my wife's 09 Tahoe this year. Added brake controller, rear helper bags, and trans cooler, plus the camper is set up with weight distribution and sway control. Power isn't much different than my truck, more room and comfort for 2 kids and 2 dogs in back, and I'm hoping it'll be a lot easier to find the sweet spot with the 6L80E than with my truck's 4L80E. I'm also hopeful that the SUV body helps the camper cut through the air a bit easier compared to the truck, but we'll see. If it sucks on the first trip then we'll go back to using my truck. I still expect single digit MPG, but hopefully not quite as deep into the singles.

[Kurt]

maybe the Ford just can't handle that much weight :dunno: :f2:

I think you misread my post, Ford did great and pulled awesome, the trailer brakes sucked and the FORD did the majority of the work and make the 2,100 mile trip just fine.

:f2::f2:

[champ]

Pulled the jeep back home on the new truck setup. Added bags to the truck to prevent it from 'barking at the moon' after the level. The taller/wider tires and difference in aero definitely made an impact on mpg and perceived power.

Granted, I'm using a (much) heavier trailer this round, but I only pulled 9.5mpg whereas it was getting 11.5mpg before mods. Probably had a headwind as the storm rolled in, but meh... it still pulls decent for a half ton and the bags took out a bunch of the unsettledness you would get over the bigger bumps in the road.


https://i.imgur.com/UwublAn.jpg

[xj_man_646]

Is that a 5.3 truck? I really like those wheels. I'm itching to upgrade my DD...struggling to decide what kind of truck I want (read: makes sense).

[champ]

Yep, 5.3/6spd truck.

https://www.methodracewheels.com/collections/street-wheels/products/nv-machined

[xj_man_646]

How does it do towing the type of load pictured?

Do you run tow / haul mode and let the trans do the work, or manually select a gear?
Does manual mode lock the gear you desire, or is that simply the highest gear it will enter?

How many miles on your truck and have you had any maintenance issues?

Practicality has me leaning toward a newer 5.3 GMC 1500. I have no complaints about my 2005 GMC 1500, so why not? :dunno: Of course I would love nothing more than a Cummins, but that is unnecessary at this stage I think.

[champ]

It did a lot better before I messed with it. :bangtard:

Tow/Haul in either D or M5. Set the cruise and let it eat. It'll sit in 5th until it slows 2mph from set speed and then downshift to 4th on the hills. Every now and then it shifts to 3rd; it never hit 3rd when the truck was stock FWIW. The hills around here aren't what you think of for typical midwest; we're in the driftless area so the terrain resembles the Appalachian foothills.

I'll throw it down into M5 to keep it from doing this weird thing where it won't down shift until it scrubs 5mph with the cruise set in D. It's only done it one trip, so take that with a grain of salt. I would recommend a WD hitch with loads 5-6K and above. The hitch is rated for 7K conventional and up to 9,300 (or whatever the max rating is) with WD. I think the rear springs are too soft for much over 600lbs of tongue weight. Hitting large bumps and swooping changes in the road are unsettling. Bags fixed most of that feeling, but a WD hitch would be ideal to get that weight up front.

The truck is a cream puff and has 10K on it in 2 years. No mechanical issues, but it has been to the dealer for dash rattles (that I fixed myself :rolleyes:) and it needs to go back in for some quirky infotainment bits and the front bumper cover has decided to change its shade of white to more of a cream.

Overall, I'm happy with it. Stock MPG was fantastic @ 17mpg city and 20-21mpg highway. It's the quietest vehicle I've ever been in or owned - spooky quiet. The ride is car-like. Transmission/Engine programming logic leaves much to be desired in town. Understandably, GM has it setup for emissions, torque management/drivetrain preservation, and emissions. If you drive it 'how the truck wants to be driven' it'll return the mileage I mentioned. If you drive one, you'll see exactly what I'm talking about.

If I had to do it all over again, I would at least test drive a comparable Ram with the Hemi and 8spd. What kills me on the Ram is the lack of payload. If you start running the numbers on Ram, you're maxed out on payload before you come close to max tow rating.

Ford? Too much $$$ for no added value.

[xj_man_646]

Good to know. Thank you! I should go test drive a couple...I would also be curious to know how the GM 8 speed drives.

[Cobound]

It did a lot better before I messed with it. :bangtard:

:lol: Truer words have never been spoken :roflmao:

If I had to do it all over again, I would at least test drive a comparable Ram with the Hemi and 8spd. What kills me on the Ram is the lack of payload. If you start running the numbers on Ram, you're maxed out on payload before you come close to max tow rating.

Love my Ram 8 speed, absolutely love it. Longest I've ever kept a daily driver. However, I don't trailer much with it. Ironic, cuz when I bought it I had big plans, and since I've had my junk towed by others :roflmao:

The little I've done, it's been great. Oh, and I didn't even test drive a Chevy or Ford after I first put my foot down in this one...likely won't.

[xj_man_646]

If I had to do it all over again, I would at least test drive a comparable Ram with the Hemi and 8spd. What kills me on the Ram is the lack of payload. If you start running the numbers on Ram, you're maxed out on payload before you come close to max tow rating.

I've been thinking about this...you understand that payload (related to GVWR) and tow rating (related to GCWR) are very different...correct? You can max out a vehicle's tow rating before you even start to add toward its payload capacity (depending how you load the trailer).

Looking online, I am only seeing a ~600# difference in payload in the Ram vs GMC 1500 trucks :dunno:

[bbaCJ8]

New tow rig?
https://scontent.fsnc1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/17457830_10100650979239247_1869752673350993380_n.j pg?_nc_cat=0&oh=5779bfe3c104aecf679c08ef0afdd1b9&oe=5B79565B

How does it do towing the type of load pictured?

Do you run tow / haul mode and let the trans do the work, or manually select a gear?
Does manual mode lock the gear you desire, or is that simply the highest gear it will enter?

How many miles on your truck and have you had any maintenance issues?

Practicality has me leaning toward a newer 5.3 GMC 1500. I have no complaints about my 2005 GMC 1500, so why not? :dunno: Of course I would love nothing more than a Cummins, but that is unnecessary at this stage I think.
That load would likely be a piece of cake for any properly equipped half ton. Towing our sail of a camper that weighs about 8k lb loaded worked the hell out of my wife's 5.3 Tahoe.

[champ]

I've been thinking about this...you understand that payload (related to GVWR) and tow rating (related to GCWR) are very different...correct? You can max out a vehicle's tow rating before you even start to add toward its payload capacity (depending how you load the trailer).

Looking online, I am only seeing a ~600# difference in payload in the Ram vs GMC 1500 trucks :dunno:

If you stick by the industry standard of 10% tongue weight for a tag trailer, then a 7000lb trailer will be 700lbs of payload capacity used up. Add 200lb driver, tools, passenger, etc. and its maxed out fast.

Granted, this isn't a problem unique to Ram as all half tons require the owner to mindful of their capacities. Ram just seems to exacerbate this.

Some days I rather had just stuck with the Duramax or bought a gas 3/4. For as much as I drive a truck in a year, the fuel economy differences would be moot.

[champ]

Doesn't that thing have 3.08 cogs in it? I had 3.42s in my 6.0L/6L80e half ton and those were marginal. Can't imagine 3.08s, bigger tires, and a 5.toofew.

6.2L, 8L90e, 3.42s, 275x55R20 Duratracs, rear sway bar set to its stiffest setting, removed rear lift block, and 80psi in the bags tows my 31' lead parachute of a camper just fine, even without trailer brakes (was a bit of an oh **** moment when they quit working). I quit using the weight distributing hitch and trailer anti sway device when I got the Duratracs. Before when I had soft sidewall tires it needed it. Someday when I quit adding **** to the trailer I'll weigh it.

Have towed just over 13k with it using a bumper pull with a backhoe on it... it was no worse than my Uncle's 2015 2500HD gasser. Would not want to do it all the time though, the brakes definitely aren't meant to get rid of that much heat all the time.

Luckily it has the 3.42's. I can't imagine having the 3.08's - slug city. I do wonder what the max tow package with 3.73's and stiffer springs would be like.

The 6.2/8spd combo would be nice, but the requirement for the LTZ/SLT package plus the added cost of the 6.2 made it just as expensive as a more capable 3/4ton.

[champ]

<snip>
Surprised you got a truck with 3.42s unless it was a Z71.



The gasser 2500HD feels slow... because it is. </snip>


It's a Z71, just debaged.


And yes... holy Christ on a cracker the 2015+ 2500's are slower than the line moving out of hell. I test drove one and immediately dismissed it as an option. I don't know why GM neutered them so badly since the same 6.0/6L90 combo in the GMT900 and 6.0/4L80 combo GTM800 trucks weren't bad. Not good, but not bad.

[nblehm]

I eye ball newer sierras. I'm totally convinced after towing my j10 back from moab with a ram 1500, I'd never have a need for a diesel truck. I really like that ram, but would probably default to a GMC just because I like GM drivetrains better. Wonder what kind of actual milage a 6.2 sierra gets.

[nblehm]

Nice. That's pretty good. I dont like duratracs anyway so I dont have to worry about that :lol:

[xj_man_646]

Wrath, do you exclusively fill up with premium with the 6.2? Or do you run lower octane fuel until you need to start utilizing the power (towing, etc)? That is my hang up with a 6.2 truck...I don't want to need premium fuel.

I love my Duratracs :). Now I just need to get my 4wd actuator fixed on the front diff...can't get the mf'er out of the tube.

[nblehm]

https://i.imgur.com/Tac5VfF.jpg

Tows like a dream

[Nefarious]

The sag from just the trailer...:roflmao::roflmao::roflmao:

[Cobound]

Damn, minus a little scratch...that's a clean (white) XJ :eek:

[nblehm]

Damn, minus a little scratch...that's a clean (white) XJ :eek:

Dont look at the rockers :cry:

Also the scratch (I think) you are talking about is just the glue from the trim I haven't gotten off yet.

[Cobound]

Yeah, the rocker looks bashed in, but holy RUST FREE :eek:

[xj_man_646]

Colorado vehicles make me sad for the midwest.

[nblehm]

Yeah, the rocker looks bashed in, but holy RUST FREE :eek:

Yeah no rust at all.

I kissed both rockers on chinamans. Whoops

[champ]

I did a thing. :cotter:




https://i.imgur.com/q30fQML.jpg?1

[MBood82]

I did a thing. :cotter:

https://i.imgur.com/q30fQML.jpg?1

This is like a game of "what's different between these two photos".


https://i.imgur.com/UwublAn.jpg

Looks to me like you got new wing mirrors, different wheels "again", and a crew cab instead of a club cab. Anything I missed?

Oooh, and a sunroof.

[champ]

Lol, didn't intend for it to be the adults version of Highlights Magazine.

Stupid from a financial standpoint, but I missed the features of my Duramax. This one has no options box left unchecked and the 6.2/8spd combo beats the pants off the 5.3/6spd. Also, the incentives GM is throwing at the SLT trucks right now is impossible to beat. $60,090 sticker... $44,768 settled price - 25.5% off.

[Dennis]

What tires on those excellent wheels? Looks awesome.

[JEEPJERK]

The house I grew up in was $17k brand new. Lol

[xj_man_646]

Lol, didn't intend for it to be the adults version of Highlights Magazine.

Stupid from a financial standpoint, but I missed the features of my Duramax. This one has no options box left unchecked and the 6.2/8spd combo beats the pants off the 5.3/6spd. Also, the incentives GM is throwing at the SLT trucks right now is impossible to beat. $60,090 sticker... $44,768 settled price - 25.5% off.

Dang! That makes me want to go out and get a new truck right now :lol:

Did you keep the wheels / tires off the old one?

[champ]

What tires on those excellent wheels? Looks awesome.


Toyo Open Country A/T II


Dang! That makes me want to go out and get a new truck right now :lol:

Did you keep the wheels / tires off the old one?


I kept the lift, bags, and wheel/tires - they're all for sale though.

[Cobound]

I'm painfully waiting for the JT to come out, not making any decisions til then. Also love my Ram, and JK, but I'm super ADD. I have not looked at new ones, the prices scare the shyt out of me :p

[jeepkid05]

Dirty ass truck.

http://i1356.photobucket.com/albums/q721/Bcsherman/93F0B856-A8FB-409E-8A87-C0D3C6375404_zpsdd5hytss.jpg (http://s1356.photobucket.com/user/Bcsherman/media/93F0B856-A8FB-409E-8A87-C0D3C6375404_zpsdd5hytss.jpg.html)

[RE-RE]

Towing stuffs is fun.

https://i.imgur.com/iJXLBbj.jpg

Not winning any races with the 5.4 but the truck tows great.

[myjeepsbigger]

I traded my 5.0 F-150 on a 17 Cummins Ram. Never thought I would drive a Ram, but I absolutely love it. Got about 18k on it now. The F150 had plenty of power, but just didn't have the suspension or brakes to comfortably tow my boat or Jeep (I tend to drive faster than I should).

[xj_man_646]

Do you have a 2500 or 3500?

[Cobound]

I traded my 5.0 F-150 on a 17 Cummins Ram. Never thought I would drive a Ram, but I absolutely love it. Got about 18k on it now. The F150 had plenty of power, but just didn't have the suspension or brakes to comfortably tow my boat or Jeep (I tend to drive faster than I should).

Yeah, that thing was nice...you certainly have put some miles on it too!

My 2013 Laramie 1500 has 93k on it right now, a lot less than it would if I didn't drive toys all year. Hell, had my JK just 13 months and put 13k on it already :eek:

I'd love a Recruit, if the JT isn't what I go with next year I'll be upgrading to an AEV Recruit, fo show!

Do you have a 2500 or 3500?

Pretty sure it's a 2500. The White Knight :p

[XJAndy]

I traded my 5.0 F-150 on a 17 Cummins Ram. Never thought I would drive a Ram, but I absolutely love it. Got about 18k on it now. The F150 had plenty of power, but just didn't have the suspension or brakes to comfortably tow my boat or Jeep (I tend to drive faster than I should).

What kind of real world mileage are you getting?

[Ryan, aka: CheapXJ.com]

https://i.imgur.com/81YHyPi.jpg

I've gone full circle and towed a sh1tbox XJ with another sh1tbox XJ.

[MBood82]

https://i.imgur.com/81YHyPi.jpg

I've gone full circle and towed a sh1tbox XJ with another sh1tbox XJ.

Does that say "meat" on the side?

[Cobound]

IT DOES if you're literate :lol:

[cruiser]

the butcher in me appreciates it haha