apache

Im considering a new CTD. I cant even imagine the power considering my 93 seems like a freight train for towing at 175HP etc. what the new ones are rated at Id be in hog heaven. Any advice, are the 6 speeds bullet proof are the autos no good when a exaust brake is installed??. max towing for now will be under 8k and occasionally with a small slide in camper, 1200lbs or so. It will be 4x4. do I need the dually? which is the only way to get 1 ton?? what milage can I expect empty at 65mph? love that 20+ in my 93. any tips or info would be appricated. <br> Thank You, Apache.

dealseeker

For you, I'd say get a long box, single rear wheel, auto. The 48re isn't proven long term yet, but so far so good .

pwabbott

apache,

At present for those in the Golden State living in the Shadow of Grubbynor Davis. We have only the Standard Version available. There is no High Output or 6 speed available. Don't even think of buying in Oregon to avoid paying California. Oregon is now actively prosecuting CA residents who come to OR for this purpose. OR then cooperates with CA DMV so you are in trouble in CA also.

The SO version for CA and some 4 other states has the same torque curve as the Fed. SO version up to 2700 RPM. My 2003 SO tows my 5er up such grades in 4th gear as I-5s Grapevine, I-5s Ashland-Syskiyou from OR, CA-58e Bakersfield-Tehachapi, I-10e Indio-Desert Center.

The 48RE was designed for use HD use with e-brake. DaimlerChrysler advises that when towing trailers with GVW over 10K# an e-brake should be used. This information isd available at Dodge Offical Site Even though the 48RE is new it was designed with much heavier tranny gears and clutches as well as a much heavier converter for use with e-brakes. With the 7/70 warranty on the power-train, D/C must be sure it is really RAM TOUGH to mate it with the HO, 555 lb-ft engine as well.

I chose the 5 speed because the 48RE wasn't available when mine was built in Aug 2002. Which ever tranny you choose, you'll love this 3rd gen Ram.

spots

You'll love the power but more important the ride. That old 93 rides like a stone boat. You will be in heaven with the '03 or '04. Get the standard tranny. No regrets. (you keep quiet Phil...... )

crabman

You can get a one ton SRW. Quite a few have done dual registrations in another state to avoid being stuck with a CA model, nothing illegal about it. There was a thread on this over on the TDR.

Casey Balvert

Phil,

Has DC officially approved the use of the exhaust brake with the new 48RE transmission? Last I heard they were still in the process of testing for durability.

I agree with spots, it you don't mind shifting, go manual. Especially if the 6 speed is available when you order.

Casey

mymaur

As far as mileage goes. I have a 6 sp, HO and 3:73 gear, At 70 MPH I get a honest 22mpg. At 65 mph your should see around 24mpg. Get over 75 mph and it drops to 18 mpg.<br><br>The standard motor should do a bit better. Personally, I'd get the six speed for towing. As someone else said about the 48RE. It is yet to be proven a good tranny.

TomJones

Sierra Phil, what would Oregon prosecute you for? I know CA DMV probably wouldn't allow you to register or would charge the sales tax you should have paid as if bought in CA. My dad lives up the road from you in Grass Valley and he is currently buying a house in Oregon. I thought about registering in his name in Oregon for a year before i change it into my name and register here in CA. you gotta figure there is more than one way to skin a cat. do you have any info about whether the HO will be available in CA in 04? <br><br>thanks in advance for any wisdom on this topic!

Hunter

Oregon won't do a thing to you, happy to have your money in fact.<br><br>Why would they if you are an Oregon &quot;resident&quot;?<br><br>Hunter