January 2010, Work Truck - Cover Story
Ram Introduces 2011 Chassis Cabs
Ram adds a Crew Cab model to the 2011-MY 3500, 4500, and 5500 Chassis Cab series. The new models feature all-new styling, enhanced upfitting accommodations, and 2010 emissions-compliant diesel engines.
By Cindy Brauer
Delivering a "complete commercial package," Ram will introduce a new Crew Cab model to the 2011 3500, 4500, and 5500 Chassis Cab work truck lineup this spring.
Presenting a range of new standard features, the 2011 Chassis Cabs offer all-new design and interior styling, enhanced upfitting accommodations, and "ultra-clean," 2010 emissions-compliant diesel engines.
Room Enough for the Crew
Ram's entry in the fastest-growing part of the truck market (nearly 50 percent in 2008, according to Ram officals), the new Crew Cab configuration provides larger interior space for passengers and storage. Leg room has been increased 6 inches, and rear doors are full-size for easy entry.
Other model configurations include Regular Cab, single rear-wheel drive (3500), and dual rear-wheel drive.
Ram 3500, 4500, and 5500 Chassis Cabs compete within the Class 3-5 segments with a GVWR of 10,200 to 19,500 lbs. and are targeted at fleet customers and small-business tradespersons. The Ram 3500's standard diesel powertrain is rated 24,000-lbs. GCWR, with an optional 26,000 lb. GCWR package.
Fuel Economy Boosted
The Ram new generation HEMI V-8 powers the Ram 3500 Chassis Cab, rating 383 hp and 400 ft.-lbs. of torque. Variable valve timing and an active intake manifold, combined with engine and powertrain integration improvements, improve idle quality, overall refinement, and fuel economy by up to 4 percent, according to the truck maker.
Generating 305 hp and 610 ft.-lbs. of torque, the Cummins 6.7L turbodiesel, standard on the 4500/5500 Chassis Cabs. The Cummins engine is optional on the 3500 Chassis Cab, with an available 3.42 axle ratio.
A B-20 diesel fuel package is a fleet-only option.
New in 2011, the Ram Chassis Cab diesel engine base alternator increases to 180 amps from 136 amps. A "segment-exclusive" factory-installed standard exhaust brake is also included with the turbodiesel, enhancing brake control and effectiveness and promoting longer brake life.
Complying with 50-state heavy-duty emissions and 2010 diesel emissions standards, the 6.7L diesel features an all-new diesel exhaust fluid injection system with Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology.
According to Ram, the Cummins diesel-equipped Chassis Cabs comply fully with "stringent new emissions-at-idle laws," and offers a 50-state emissions package and exterior label allowing drivers to idle without time restrictions in California and other Air Resources Board (ARB) states.
The Ram Chassis Cab diesel engine also features a standard 5-year/100,000-mile warranty.
Standard transmissions include a 5-speed automatic with the 5.7L HEMI on the 3500 and a manual 6-speed overdrive on 4500/5500 models.
Also available to match the diesel engine are a 6-speed Aisin automatic transmission (complete with a three-year/180,000-mile warranty) or a 6-speed manual transmission, both with PTO capability.
In addition, new 2011 Ram transmissions include Electronic Range (gear) Select, enabling drivers to manually limit the highest available transmission gear, allowing manual upshifts and downshifts based on road speed and engine speed. A tow/haul-mode switch enhances tow capability.