Buzz

Hey Fellas,
First let me say, "Congrats!", to all you lucky dogs with new trucks...they're all awesome!

I went and test drove a 2500 CD 4:10 auto today. It's rated at 235 HP/460torque. I was impressed with the acceleration and stopping ability both. The motor is very quiet also. It ran great. ;D

The one I drove was a QC short bed SL. No power windows, mirros, etc. Cassette instead of CD. I guess cruise and air was about the only options. It stickered for 32K. Invoice at about 29-29K. It's a shame to spend that kind of money and get only a base model. >

The standard diesel offered here in Ca. has only 85 ft/lbs more torque than the new Hemi but 100 HP less! That's a bunch of ponies! On a 2500 model that equates to a towing capacity of 13,600 (SO diesel) vs. 11,400 (Hemi).

That brings me to the next question. For someone who will only pull an RV perhaps a maximum of 10 times a year, is it wiser to get the Hemi instead of the CD??

I'll admit, just the thought of owning a CD is enticing. But is it my best move?? I don't even have the 5er yet but imagine it'll be in the neighborhood of a 24'-27' ...maybe 8,000 pounds or so. I'm 10 years away from retirement so my RVing time is still limited.

I'm still working on getting rid of my upside down '98 2500 5.2 SLT. :'( I'm trying to get it paid off early so I can get a new one ASAP.

Anyway, what do you all think? Thanks for your input. Buzz

RLS

Buzz,<br><br>I live here in Calif. also and am shopping for a truck. I pull less weight than you will but may do it more often. I want the CTD HO. If running empty will be the main use of the truck the Hemi will be fine but the CTD I think is better. The deisels have more horse power in the RPM range that most of use when pulling even light loads. I did a little math (may be off a little) to see the difference between the two power plants. I used the torque curves of the Hemi and CTD HO. The numbers may be off some because I am not sure any one knows the real torque numbers but here is what I found;<br><br>RPMs HP CTD HP Hemi<br>1400 148 81<br>2000 211 125<br>2800 295 199<br><br>Formula RPM X Torque/5252= Horsepower<br><br>I know we can't get the HO yet but somehow I will.<br><br>

Buzz

RLS,<br>You have some good points. The CD does make all it's power at a much lower RPM. But that's just a given when comparing diesels to gassers. Sort of like apples and oranges...not a true comparison. The Hemi tops out at 345 hp...305 for the HO . I guess what I'm trying to say is; the V-8 spins faster to make the same hp as a diesel. They both get there...just a different speeds. Of course, torque is the main concern when towing. That's where the diesel really shines. I just don't know if the minimal amount of time I'll be towing justifies getting a CD. ???<br><br>Here's how you can get an '03 HO. Wait a few months then start searching other states dealers (or private parties) for used ones. (It won't take too long and people will start trading them in for a variety of reasons.) Auto Trader.com and Ebay are good places to start. A used vehicle has to have at least 7,500 miles on it before it can be registered here in the land of fruits and nuts!<br><br>If you don't mind buying slightly used, you can get one here legally. Not to mention the savings of new vs. used!<br>Good luck!

wexman

Remember - Dodge has the V10 if you want the torque. I had one - fantastic engine - lousy mileage.

But, try to find one. DC is REALLY pushing the Hemi. I think the V10s days are numbered. All Joe Average cares about is horsepower - never mind the V10 makes 75 more lb-ft.

98rammer

the v-10 is great when it's new i guess, but i've driven a 124,000 mile tired v-10. what a horrible sounding dog!! it sounded like the v6 in the older dakotas.<br><br>235/460 isn't much though. i've driven a stock 24v with 235/420 (DRecu's) and it isn't fast by any means (except on the top end). a box changes that of course, but the same goes with the new trucks (warranty issues, etc.).<br><br>i myself would go with the diesel because i love diesels. the hemi though should be one fast stock truck!<br><br>Tom

wexman

I had Borla headers and exhaust on my V10 - still sounded horrible! But, it ran like a hot hooker! ;D

Commatoze

That's interesting to hear you say that wexman. I have a Borla system on my 5.7L Chevy C1500, and it sounds and runs wonderful. I was looking for a similar setup for the Ram, but I don't think they make one for the Cummins engine.

wexman

It's not Borla's fault - just the nature of the V10 sound - they sound like a sick 6 - but ballsy torque. ;D

Nevada

Wow, I thought it was just me. I have always thought that the V-10 sounded more like two five cylinder engines running in close proximity than a V-10. Something about it just doesn't sound right to me.<br><br>Another issue to consider is longivety. How long do you plan on keeping your truck? The diesel will outlast the HEMI by a substantial margin.

Buzz

Nevada,<br>I usually don't keep my vehicles very long. However, due to MY age and mileage, I think I better start changing my ways! Besides, trucks are getting too darn expensive to sell and not be upside down.<br><br>My gut feeling says (when the time is right) to go CD.<br>Thanks for everyones input. Buzz<br>http://www.angrybiker.com

pwabbott

Buzz, First of all look at my signature, you will see how my 2003 is equipped, mine invoiced at $30308. an SLT. Purchased for $30383. Sticker was $33508.<br><br>If you are towing 8000# you need the diesel. Gassers have never given mileage above 9-10 mpg. The Cummins Diesel has torque far greater than the Hemi in the useful towing range 1400-2700rpm. The Diesel has maximum torque over this entire range. At this rpm range the Hemi is weak it doesn't reach max torque until 4200 rpm, not good for towing. Gassers do not have a wide range of maximum torque. <br><br>Fuel consumption towing with Diesel will be in 12-14 mpg range. Highway mileage for Diesel will be above 20 mpg. As you can see from what I paid for mine you can get a nicely equipped SLT for around 30K. You can be sure the Hemi, a gasser in three years will have had much more depreciation than the Diesel. You will save money overall with the Diesel, what is more you won't out grow the Diesel.<br><br>Trying to compare horsepower serves no useful purpose as it is like comparing apples and oranges for two different engines. <br>

Buzz

Phil'
I hear ya! It'll be a diesel when the time comes. Why didn't you opt for the H.O.? Any particular reason?
I forgot...no HO in our great state! :'(

CaptainDD

I would wait until they come out with the new auto and hope they match the HO to it. As far as the Hemi goes it will pull that 8000lbs just fine. I have a friend who has an 03 Hemi and he loves it. The Cummins diesel is a great engine and I hope the new ones are even better.

jet

Captain-talked to a salesman yesterday and he too said they still don't know if DC will ever come out with an auto to match the HO. I think they have paid attention to how much trouble Allison has had with the Duramax. Who knows?

jet ???