I drove my bosses 96 2500 CTD the other day and one thing I noticed is how much torque it felt like it had. Sitting in Park at idle, I tapped the accelerator and you can really feel the truck twist. When I test drove the 04 and 04.5, the truck didnt do that at all.

I know the HP and torque specs on the new trucks are much higher than a 96, but It sure didnt feel that way. What did Cummins or DC do in the past few years to eliminate the torque twist you feel.

 

probably has to do with engine mount design

 

In a nutshell, they built a better frame. One of the biggest complaints of long time Dodge drivers, and a frequent bashing point for Ford owners, is how weak our old truck frames are compared to other trucks on the market at the time. They twist and creak when pulling heavy. Just so we are clear, this is not something that you want to happen.

I sold my '95 12 valve when I got my new truck and it did the same thing. There is no comparison between the old stock 12 valves and the 3rd gens. What you feel is a more solid truck. Did you notice in 2003 when DC hyped up its new frame manufacturing techniques? I can't remember what they called it, but it was a big deal to some folks, especially the Ford guys.

 

I believe the change your talking about is called Hyrdo-forming! If I'm not mistaken, this process eliminates some weld joints (fewer pieces) as it can now be made from a single piece of raw steel vs. multiple pieces (or more pieces). Fewer pieces equals fewer weld joints and less heat. Heat is a bad thing as it can quickly weaken the material if not controlled properly.

 

THAT'S IT! I knew someone would come to my rescue.