I just traded in my 1/4 ton gas PU and purchased a new 06 Ram Mega Cab CTD 4x4 and will be towing a toy hauler. I haven't picked out one yet but will probably be towing to the max. The wife really likes the fivers with garage but I think those are going to be to heavy, will probably settle on a shorter 5 or because of the CTD can pull almost anything in a tow behind. The truck is standard and does not have any mods. What mods are recommended to help in general and with towing? I hear exhaust brakes are great to have, what do those bad boys run? Are those computer chip programs good or will they void warranties?

thanks for the help.

 

Welcome to DTR and congrats on your new truck!

The first thing you need is a good set of gauges. Exhaust Gas Temp, Turbo Boost, Fuel pressure, and Transmission (if you have an auto).

The rest of the info you will get from reading the 3rd gen forums. Might want to do a search on aftermarket Air intakes and exhaust upgrades. Also, if you have an auto tranny you might consider a valve body and torque converter upgrade. There is tons of info on "boxes"...just start reading. Good luck.

 

Like TexasCTD said, gauges are a great asset to have.

An exhaust brake is another, especially if you'll be pulling that toyhauler down mountainsides. They don't come cheap, however.The parts will run as much as $1200 (do lots of shopping before you buy as some have found them for as little as $800) and labor will be about $500-$600 to install at the dealership.

A box like the Quadzilla XZT will add some power while keeping engine parameters at safe levels.

Congratulations on the new ride and welcome to DTR!

 

I have the std quad box and have it set at '60 hp' when running with the camper in the mountains - makes a HUGE difference when pushing uphill grades. On the downside, I have an inline exhaust brake - I can hold an 8% to 10% grade downhill (depending on speed/gear) without using the brakes. We were on Vancouver Island and did the trip across the island along the pacific rim highway - there you would be going 8% downhill with a hairpin turn at the bottom - nice road, pretty scenery but need to be focused. The e-brake made holding speed on the grade worth the investment.

 

I pulled my Next Level toyhauler (about 16,000+ lbs loaded) with my truck for two years with no engine mods and it pulled like a dream. The only issue I faced was on climbing some of the steep mountain passes I would max out at 45mph and had my foot to the floor. I recently installed the XTZ and airaid/mit kit and now I can easily do 55mph over the same mtn passes and I don't have to have my foot to the floor reving the pee out of the engine.

So my advice is to get the biggest toyhauler your truck is rated to pull and get a towing box like the XTZ and aftermarket intake and you will be really happy.