Suspension & Steering
Engine & Performance
Transmission
Wheels & Tires
The 5th Generation Ram, many times referred to as a "5th Gen," debuted for the 2019 model year in the Ram Heavy Duty models, came after a long-awaited period of no major body style change to the 2010-2018 model years, known as the "4th Gen Dodge Ram." Indeed, there were notable changes to the suspension and some minor alterations to the powertrain, but from a sheer body style standpoint, design was at a stalemate. We are here to reassure you that Ram came out swinging for the 5th Gens and it’s not just a cheap makeover. But, before we dive into the details, we need to break the news to our manual transmission fans…..Ram has finally given up the good fight and there will be no option for a three pedaled Cummins moving forward. Yeah, we know. Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, onto the good news! Ram is the first to break the four digit torque benchmark when you opt for the Aisin AS69RC automatic transmission equipped High Output model. You’ll have 1000 pound feet of torque coming in at 1800 RPM and 400 horsepower at 2800 RPM for unmatched towing capabilities. And if you go for the newly upgraded 68RFE auto, don’t worry, you’ll still have plenty of ponies under the hood, making 850 lbs. ft. of torque at 1700 RPM and 370 horsepower at 2800 RPM. Where much of the competition makes their power at RPM’s rarely seen when towing, the 6.7 Cummins gets it right where you want it, below 2000 RPM.
5TH GEN RAM ENGINE DETAILS
In order to support these higher power figures, numerous upgrades have been made to the running gear. The block is built from Compacted Graphite Iron (CGI) which has proven itself to handle sustained EGT’s (Exhaust Gas Temperatures) and a new cast iron head that’s strapped down with larger head bolts compared to previous years. Inside of the head, new self-adjusting hydraulic lifters and rocker arms means you won’t need to adjust the valves anymore, stronger exhaust valves and springs are in place to support additional boost over previous years (33 psi), and lighter pistons with forged connecting rods keep the rotating assembly making power. In order to shove more air into the cylinders, a larger, revised Variable Geometry Turbo (VGT) is in place that bolts to a newly designed exhaust manifold, all done so in an effort to increase airflow.
5TH GEN RAM FUEL RELATED
With all of this additional airflow, Bosch, Cummins fueling partner, upped the ante, as well. Cummins finally bit the bullet and abandoned use of the tried and true CP3 in favor of a twin piston CP4.2 injection pump capable of pressures as high as 39,000 PSI. However, after two model years of continual failures of the CP4.2, Ram returned back to the CP3 starting in 2021 model years. Further, for any failures of the CP4.2, a conversion kit was devised to retro these trucks with a CP3. While other automakers have gone to a piezo injector, Bosch kept with common rail injectors. Also worth noting is that even though the injectors may look very similar to those found in previous model 6.7L Cummins, they do have many differences that net an increase in potential displacement compared to their predecessor.
5TH GEN RAM SUSPENSION
On the suspension side of things, Ram had already made some major changes in 2013 and 2014 model years, being the first to debut a rear coil sprung heavy duty pickup on the 2500 models along with rear air ride options on both 2500 and 3500’s. Taking advantage of the air ride technology, you can now have the option for a Bed Lowering Mode that does just what the name implies, lowers the bed roughly two inches to allow for easy trailer hookup. If you’re really good, you can actually lower the bed by releasing air pressure, snake under the trailer tongue, lift the bed, lock the trailer in place, and take off. Pretty sweet.
From there, a ton of other creature comforts and upgrades have been made to the sound system, interior, multiple camera options, and so forth. No longer do you have to sacrifice any of the available options found on the most luxurious sports cars when you drive a truck, and with four digit torque, you can feel like you’re driving a sports car too. When you’re ready to increase the capabilities of your Cummins, get ready, because we’ve got a slew of tricks up our sleeves to help you make it faster, more reliable, and more comfortable, no matter how you use your truck. Don’t hesitate to give us a call or shoot an e-mail our way and we can help make your Cummins exactly the way you want it.
Disclaimer:
Diesel Power Products is not affiliated with Cummins or any of its subsidiaries or related companies. Unless a product is specifically identified as a Genuine Cummins product that has not been remanufactured, modified, or refurbished, Cummins makes no representation or warranty about the product and has not authorized, tested, or approved the parts for use in genuine Cummins brand products.
Q: Does your HE300VG (Variable Geometry Turbo / VGT found on 6.7L Cummins) come with an actuator, and if so, is it pre-calibrated?
A: Yes, all HE351VE's we sell come with an actuator, and is pre-calibrated, ready for installation.
Q: Will a DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) back system provide more sound to my truck?
A: Generally speaking no, the emissions equipment upstream will still act as a muffler. However, that doesn't mean installation will not help in other areas by improving exhaust flow. While minor, the benefits are noticeable, plus an aftermarket exhaust looks way better than the stock exhaust.
Q: Will an aftermarket "2nd Gen" turbo swap kit on my 6.7 Cummins remove the factory exhaust brake?
A: Yes, the stock exhaust brake is part of the factory turbo. When removing the factory turbo in favor of a non-VGT (Variable Geometry Turbo), the factory exhaust brake function is removed, as well.
Q: Can I buy just EFILive tuning for my 2013+ Ram 6.7L Cummins without an unlock device?
A: In short, no. Beginning in model year 2013, if you're looking to tune your Cummins with EFILive, you'll need to "unlock" the ECM. Firewalls were installed to prevent aftermarket tuning, yet there are several ways to bypass this to allow the installation of EFILive. We carry the Bully Dog GT with Unlock Cable.
Q: I'm looking at an exhaust kit on your website, but it doesn't state which cab and bed configuration it fits, will this fit my application?
A: In most cases, unless it is specifically stated as fitting a certain configuration, all exhaust kits on our website will fit all cab and bed lengths. Further, most kits will not fit cab and chassis applications unless otherwise noted.
Q: I'm looking at this 5" (or other) exhaust kit, but my truck only has a 4" exhaust now. Does this 5" exhaust include an adapter / reducer?
A: Yes, the exhaust systems we sell will adapt down to fit the application at the designated starting point (turbo back, cat back, DPF back, etc.) for a hassle free installation.
Q: What are EGT's?
A: EGT stands for Exhaust Gas Temperature, which is the temperature of the exhaust leaving your engine. This measurement is typically measured before the turbo to ensure you are not overheating components. For most applications, we recommend not exceeding 1300 degrees.
Q: Will the products you offer void my warranty?
A: Some parts may void your warranty and some may not. We recommend researching the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act that specifically protects consumers when choosing to install aftermarket components on their vehicles, as well as consulting with your local dealer.
If you've got a question about your Cummins, feel free to give us a call at 888-99-DIESEL and we would be happy to assist.
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