A Promise Fulfilled

Ram truck lovers have been debating the likelihood of a mid-size truck for many years now. The demand for a vehicle that provides reasonable performance and at the same time, is inexpensive is comprehensible, especially as the prices for trucks are rising. Such a model has been on Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis’s bucket list for a long time, and it looks like his wish is coming true.

This news was also given by Stellantis, and official confirmation from the company was given to AutoMotorblog. Info regarding how the cars will differ is relatively rare, although the company has stated that production will begin in 2027. The announcement of the new compact pickup came shortly after a memo release from Stellantis COO, Antonio Filosa, who laid down plans for assembling the new truck in the auto company’s Belvidere, Illinois plant.

The Belvidere Plant: A Phoenix Rises

The fate of the Belvidere plant looked ambiguous after the plant stopped working in early 2023. This action made people unsure of what was going to happen to its employees and any sign of how the company was going to fashion out its manufacturing strategy in the future. Pel-Oil promised to resolve the crisis this year because the situation was so tense that it almost resorted to a strike last year. However, the protests were followed by negotiations, and as a result, the United Auto Workers (UAW) union and Stellantis of France and Italy reached an agreement.

UAW explained that, according to the company strategy of Stellantis, this new mid-size pickup will be produced in Belvidere. This development is a watershed moment for the plant as well as the workers who operate it. Apart from this new project, Stellantis has assured that the next model of Dodge Durango will be manufactured at its Detroit plant and that enhanced Jeep plants in Ohio will also be allocated funds. These actions are indicative of a new direction in managing its workforce and a more focused and deliberate approach to extending its manufacturing capacity.

Filling the Gap

Half ton is the segment that is currently not offered by Ram, and it is a market segment in which enthusiasts have been waiting for a new product from Ram. This loss created a void in the market for a value-based pickup truck because the 1500 Classic was successfully discontinued. This new mid-size pickup, which was unveiled yesterday, is to meet the demand for such a vehicle, which would be less expensive than full-size Rams yet would keep to the themes of durability and dependability.

It makes perfect sense for Tim Kuniskis to lobby for the midsize truck. Since the market has shifted and the prices of the trucks have gone high, a cheaper option would be appealing to a larger number of potential clients. This shift is opposite the general trend observed within the manufacturers, who have directed their efforts to mid-sized trucks as they seek to appeal to a larger clientele.

What to Expect

Details on the new Ram midsize continue to be concealed, but extrapolations based on the trends currently observable in the market and on Ram’s branding touchstones can be made. Look for a truck that combines this brand’s tradition of powerful machismo with today’s hi-tech and eco-minded features.

The mid-size pickup truck segment is still fairly intense, especially in the American market, where industry benchmarks have now arisen in the form of the new Ford Ranger and Toyota Tacoma. As Ram develops its new model, it will have to make this model different from other models of trucks, providing additional features and possibilities for fans of trucks. Special elements such as improved off-road functionality, high towing power, and state-of-art built-in communication technology probably constitute its strengths.

It is true that adding a new Ram pickup model in between the half-ton and full-size truck classes is much more than just a new point on the product portfolio; it is a complete change of strategic direction. This is because, more on Ram’s part, the brand will be able to capture a new market niche because there are buyers who are willing to purchase a pickup not necessarily because of luxury but because of the needs it fulfills.

Furthermore, this may actually have a big impact not just for a specific truck maker but for the whole truck industry. With more manufacturers, particularly American manufacturers, coming up with mid-size pickups, we might begin to see better products in the market due to stiff competition. This trend also points to the overall global vision and transition from inefficient and unnecessarily wasteful vehicles.

Personal Opinion

Frankly speaking, as a person who has always monitored the truck industry, I have to admit that I get very excited about the Ram midsize pickup idea. This model can reshape what consumers will be able to get from mid-size trucks with Ram’s unique designs and the latest innovative features at modest prices. It also holds a great risk for Ram to expand its market and gain a more powerful market standing to attract a new customer base.

Citizen consumers who have been Ram fans for years might rediscover their love for the brand by having a model that fits what they need yet is not exorbitantly priced. Ram’s midsize pickup might just be the answer for those who are unsure about getting a truck, and it could serve as an introduction to the Ram line of vehicles.

Conclusion

The confirmation of a mid-size pickup truck by Ram is significant news in the automotive industry. This buzz is especially high among fans of trucks and experts who expect to see the first produced cars in 2027. This new model is intended to replace a current mid-range Ram model to give consumers a lower-priced, still tough, and reliable Ram model.

As we await more details, one thing is clear: automotive truck makers are heading towards an innovative new era. This product especially brings a new future to the Ram brand and, at the same time, can drive change for the entire mid-size pickup segment. There will be more of this as we approach the release of this highly anticipated automobile.

I will reveal in this material 10 common problems that Dodge Ram 1500 owners often encounter. This will assist you to be ready and be on the lookout for whatever comes along.

1. Transmission Issues

Another huge area of concern that has close to flooded the automobile forums created by Dodge Ram 1500 owners is the transmission. The 2003-2008 models, especially, are now reported to have issues with the 42RLE transmission system. Some of the signs of this problem are; delayed response, difficulty in shifting gears and complete failure to down gear.

Sometimes it could be very severe where the transmission system forward could stop working and this definitely will make the car immobile. Depending on whether you experience one or several of the above symptoms, it would be wise to see your car checked by a mechanic who specializes in transmission repair.

2. Cooling System Problems

The Dodge Ram 1500’s cooling system is another one that many owners may have issues with and you better know about this issue. The whole development of the cooling system, maybe due to the radiator or the hoses, can result in overheating of the engine and excessive wear or damage; this is very bad if it happens…

Also, the thermostat might be damaged, resulting in the engine overheating or staying colder than it should be. You would better need to look out for leaks or other problems in the cooling system of your Dodge Ram 1500 because if the engine is damaged in any way, you may have to shell out a lot of money to get it fixed… it’s a nightmare if this happens!

3. Steering Issues

The Dodge Ram 1500 has a lot of steering problems, especially in the early models of this pickup truck. Do you think this pickup truck is not free from problems? No way. A loose or worn steering wheel can be extremely hard to get a grip and control of the car, especially if you’re going fast.

This can occur from a defective steering pump or a worn out steering column shaft. Does this sound bad, right? If the steering feel of your Dodge Ram 1500 isn’t perfect, it’s probably best to take your vehicle to a good mechanic and drive safely. Safety first!

4. Fuel System Problems

Another complaint with the Dodge Ram 1500 is some problems with the fuel system especially with the 5.7-liter Hemi engine. This may involve bad fuel injectors, fuel pump or fuel lines or any other connected thing to the fuel supply system. Some of the signs you may experience when your fuel system is faltering are rough running engines, slow acceleration and difficult startups. Such problems should be treated when the problem is identified so that it does not necessitate serious damages to the engine.

5. Electrical Problems

Electrical problems are common with Dodge Ram 1500s. It can be due to the alternator, battery, or wiring system of the vehicle. Electrical issues in the vehicle may include the headlights looking faint, the battery might be dead or the car simply refusing to start. The worst is that the truck may seize when in motion. Your Dodge Ram 1500 probably isn’t going to be repaired by you if you have any electrical problems at all in the vehicle.

6. Air Suspension Issues

Air suspension is one of those features that more Dodge Ram 1500 owners want and it is available as standard in this pickup truck which gives you an excellent ride with a height adjustable vehicle which sounds very exciting, right? The women will love this option, but it will ruin your pockets over time.

The other problem is that the Dodge Ram 1500 air suspension system can also leak or have problems, from bad air lines all the way through to a bad compressor. So if you have an air suspension system issue, you need to get it looked at before it becomes a problem. Therefore, if you expect it to be too late, you will have to pay more to fix the Ram’s air suspension system; better fix it earlier.

7. Brake Issues

Do you know that saying? Don’t trust brakes and women. 🙂 Unfortunately for those big boys with a Dodge Ram 1500, the brakes also have their problems. It can be issues with the rotors, brake pads, or calipers, to name a few… Some of the signs that indicate brake problems are squeaking or grinding noise, vehicle pulls to the side, or weak braking action (the brake pedal feels soft).

If any of these problems happen, you need to have your Dodge Ram 1500’s brakes inspected and repaired as soon as possible to avoid any potential incidents or even road accidents.

8. Wheel Bearing Issues

In addition, the wheel bearings may be problematic for the Dodge Ram 1500 owners, too. A bad bearing is responsible for providing smooth rotation of wheels, if it does not happen so, the automobile will shake or pull in some direction and in worst scenario, the wheel comes out. If you can feel any kind of pulling or vibrations while you’re driving, the Dodge Ram 1500’s wheel bearings should be checked and changed, if needed.

9. Exhaust Issues

Among the frequent troubles that can be the trouble for the Dodge Ram 1500 is the problem with exhaust. Problems with muffler, problems with catalytic converter, or problems with an exhaust pipe can be the cause. One or both of the exhaust systems may be bad if the vibrations roar, fuel economy is low, and fuel emissions are high. If you have any of these problems with your Dodge Ram 1500 exhaust system, you need to seek service and repair.

10. Ignition Switch Problems

The last, but not the least, the problematic component of the Dodge Ram 1500 is acknowledged to be the car’s ignition switch. A failure of the ignition switch may result in a truck in which the engine starts poorly or stalls while operating. If you experience problems with the Dodge Ram 1500 ignition switch, then it is strongly advised that you take it to a mechanic for diagnosis and repair.

Conclusion

The Dodge Ram 1500 is one of full size pickup brands that offer capability, versatility, and elegance. Of course with any other vehicle on the road come a couple of issues. Of course, you should also know what kinds of problems Dodger Ram 1500 can begin with transmission and end in steering committees.

Always stay up to date and if you see any signs of a problem, fix it as soon as possible. This will avoid future problems. Therefore, owning a car or buying one is of no use whatsoever, as most car owners are already aware; that these issues already exist and are discussed in this article. Happy driving!

What is Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)?

DPF in Cummins is mainly fitted for reducing the pollution effect and capturing the soot common in diesel engines. However, once the filter starts getting choked due to deposits sulfate ash, it may also induce reduction of power and increase in fuel consumption bringing a lot of irritation in the cascading effect. Thank You? A DPF delete can mitigate those issues and allow enough freedom for your truck to breathe.

Reasons For DPF Delete On 6.7 Cummins

DPF deletion is not only skipping a few redundant services; It has several advantages to offer to your pickup truck:

Improved fuel economy: Remove the DPF and cut down on the number of gas fill-ups. The engine will perform so much better, with less energy wasted in fueling the engine.

Increased Power: When there is no restriction on the exhaust, the Cummins can work to its maximum, which is the horsepower, torque, and throttle shifting that you have been longing for.

Lower Maintenance Costs: No more cleaning or changing that irritating filter thus giving you some money savings in the future.

Increased Engine Longevity: Less backpressure means less heat and that’s a bonus for the health of the engine with time.

The Legal Side of Things

Before you go ahead with your DPF delete, it is crucial to remember that this mod in some parts of the world bestow some serious legal constraints. Several areas have laws that restrict modification of the emissions systems in any vehicle. Therefore, make sure you have familiarized yourself with the laws in your area before you move ahead. Dynovox always suggests being a law-abiding citizen.

What You’ll Need for the Job

Elevation of the DPF could not be done successfully without certain basic components:

DPF Delete Kit: This kit includes ready-to-fit exhaust pipes, clamps, all other fastening hardware for the DPF replacement.

DPF Delete Tuner: This is the most important accessory. It is about re-programming the electronic brain of your truck. You need this because your Cummins will not work properly after DPF has been removed if such device is not used.

Step by Step Instruction for 6.7 Cummins DPF Delete

So, this is a step-by-step of how to go about removing the DPF device from your truck:

• Disconnect the Battery: As with any electrical supplied device, this is a sensible first step – disconnect the negative cable to avoid any risk of sparking.

• Take out the DPF: Find the filter located somewhere in the exhasut system and pull it out with care. Be sure to pull out any sensors and wiring if there are any.

• Put in place the DPF Delete Kit: Follow the instructions to properly bolter the new kit in place making sure all fittings are not loose.

• Reprogram the ECM: This is done using the DPF delete tuner and it involves making changes to the engine control module of the truck. This helps the engine to work appropriately after the DPF removal.

• Put Everything Back and Start the Car: After that, everything went as planned, install the battery and start the engine. Watch out for any weird noises and the absence of warning signals.

• Run Leak Test And Take It For A Ride: Start the engine and inspect the exhaust area for any leaks. Then, drive your truck around to check if everything is working properly.

Keeping Your Cummins in Top Shape After the Delete

Now that your DPF is a thing of the past, here’s how to keep your 6.7 Cummins running as it should: 

• Stick to Engine Service Oil Change Intervals: Your engine will stay much cleaner and in a much happier state if you are frequent in changing its oils.

• Watch Exhaust Temps: Constantly monitor the exhaust gas temperature (EGT) so that you do not overstress the engine. 

• Routine Inspections: Every once in a while, scan the exhaust pipes of the engine for any signs of wear or leak.

• Use Quality Diesel Fuel: If you want your Cummins engine to be the best engine, then you have to give it expensive diesel fuel.

Ready to Take the Plunge?

So, if you are considering uninstalling the DPF on your 6.7 Cummins, you are in luck because Dynovox has premium quality kits that will allow you to do this comfortably. Be it for enhancing fuel use, sheer performance, or even exhaustion of complications caused by a blocked DPF, our kits are tough and perform excellently.

Now, RAM hits us with a new surprise – the unveiling of the long-expected 2022 1500 TRX Ignition Edition. However, this is a limited edition available on the American market in just 875 units, each one costing $91,585. The prices can go up depending on the extra features available.

Besides the TRX Ignition, there are other trims available, and these are the 2022 RAM Longhorn Southfork as well as the 2022 RAM RED Edition. They were officially unveiled at the State Fair of Texas, which will be available between September 24th to October 17th. So, you will have plenty of time to admire all the RAM models being displayed in all their glory.

2022 RAM 1500 TRX Ignition Edition

The first one you will see at the State Fair of Texas is the 1500 TRX Ignition Edition trim and is offered with unique personalization at the exterior as well as inside the cabin. All the graphics, performance, and technology it enhances are factory-built and provide the model with an extraordinary appearance.

Besides the factory graphics, the new TRX Ignition Edition is also available with TRX Level 2 Equipment, meaning unique colors or graphics, as well as LED brake lights, panoramic, sunroof, spay-in Bedliner, cargo tie-downs, and finally, the outrageous 18-inch machine face blacked-out rims. All in one, a real spectacular show to admire.

Moving inside, the cabin welcomes its customers with a lot of customized RAM items and logos on the seats. There are also the Copperhead Orange stitching, orange center console badge, copper carbon fiber accents, driver’s screen, head-up display, or emergency braking system.

Under the hood, the 2022 1500 TRX Ignition Edition is packed with the powerful 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V8, developing a blasting 702 horsepower and 881 Nm of torque. And that makes the most powerful truck in the world. Also, the 0 to 100 km/h run is done in a staggering 4.5 seconds.

2022 RAM 1500 Longhorn Southfork

Next in the lineup is the 1500 Longhorn Southfork, officially becoming the replacer of the Limited Longhorn 10th anniversary, available at the retails from $61,200, adding the $1,695 destination fee. A lot of high-end features make this trim extremely appealing and attractive – deployable bed-step, multi-function tailgate, adjustable cargo tie-down hooks, spray-in bed liner, LED box lighting, or Falken Wildpeak all-terrain tires.

The cabin is also gorgeous and high-end with suede door bolsters with leather inserts, standard bucket seats, or exclusive Mountain Brown color.

2022 RAM 1500 RED Edition

Finally, the top-of-the-line RAM 1500 RED Edition is available at $63,250 and comes with a Limited Crew Cab configuration, meaning extra cool features, such as the center console lid with a RED badge, door badging, and two engine choices – a V8 and an EcoDiesel one. You can admire the gorgeous RAM 1500 TRX and line-up in the media gallery below!

2022 RAM 1500 RED Edition – Photo Gallery

Speaking of Ram carmaker, the Chicago auto event will find it release special editions of the gorgeous and exquisite 2500 and 3500 trucks. We are looking here at the Night package, which will add more interesting styling packages for both of them.

Speaking about how important standout packages are for the Ram`s fans and customers, Mike Manley, CEO at Ram, felt the need of saying a few words on the new event:

“Truck enthusiasts look for ways to stand out from the crowd. The Ram brand understands that it’s important to meet the demands and deliver outstanding, durable products to every type of truck buyer. From the Ram Sport, to the popular Rebel, to the ultimate off-road truck – the Ram Power Wagon – Ram is building the best trucks in the enthusiast segment.”

Once the Ram 2500 and 3500 with Night package will be offered in dealerships soon after their official unveiling in Chicago, both special editions will be available with the Crew Cab configurations, with both 2WD and 4WD, with prices to start from at least $46,840.

For that money, you get plenty of exterior features, like a wide of new colours – Bright Silver Metallic, Brilliant Black Crystal, Bright White, Delmonico Red Pearl, and Granite Crystal Metallic.

Other styling features also refer to blacked-out headlight bezels, special badges, grille surround, 20-inch alloy wheels, as well as the optional rectangular running boards.

Inside, the Night package adds more goodies as standard, including cloth and vinyl upholstered seats with power functions and heating, power-adjustable pedals, dual-zone automatic climate control and much more.

Besides Ford, Dodge or Chevrolet, RAM will be also present at the event with an improved version of the standard yet impressive 1500 pickup truck, which is also known as the “Copper Sport” edition.

The 2017 RAM 1500 Copper Sport comes with improved styling bits at the exterior as well as inside, with the model being available for at least $46,950, including the destination fees.

On the market, the model will be a limited-run, only in the crew cab form, yet allowing its passengers to store whatever they want thanks to the impressive space inside.

Visually, the all-new RAM 1500 Copper Sport is launched with the Copper Pearl colour, a new and eye-catching colour, which goes just fine with the new black hood stripes, special badging all around the body, all complemented with the 20- or 21-inch polished aluminum alloy wheels.

Inside, the cabin is also tweaked with some new materials, like orange accents and stitching, adding black headliner and pillars, or the Sport embroidery on the high-end seats. Other features also include the Alpine premium sound system with nine-speakers and subwoofer, and much more.

Each of the 3,000 models available on the market starting next month, is equipped with the standard 5.7-liter V8 engine, also seen on the present RAM 1500. You can find out more about the pickup truck`s looks in the media gallery below.

This is what the carmaker calls the “most capable off-road truck in America”, the model coming with a base price of $51,695 and a whole new outstanding characteristics. In case you want more than the standard features, then you will have to pay another $4,495 for the Leather & Luxury package, with many more tweaks.

For the base price however, you get to enjoy a lot of nice styling bits, such as black grille and tailgate, 70s-inspired graphics, while the interior is highlighted by the tire-tread-embossed seats with Power Wagon logo embroidery on the upper bolsters.

On the other hand, the Leather & Luxury package adds the Uconnect Access 8.4 Sirius XM satellite radio with touchscreen display, nine Alpine speakers with subwoofer, heated and ventilated high-back leather-trimmed front bench seats, dual-zone air conditioning, ten-way adjustable driver seat, ParkSense park assist system and much more.

Mechanically, we are dealing with the latest fighting machine that is plenty of goodies. We should mention the most important ones – 12,000 pound Warn winch, Bilstein mono-tube cocks, five-link rear coil spring suspension, Smart Bar electronic disconnecting sway-bar, electric locking front and rear differentials, under-chassis armor, as well as the 33-inch Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac tires.

In the engine department, the 2017 Ram Power Wagon packs a massive 6.4-liter HEMI V8 engine, with 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque, which is way impressive than the Raptor`s powertrain.

At the beginning of the week, there were some pictures leaked with the all-new Grand Wagner and future Wrangler, the photos being published on Allpar.com. In addition to those two new prototypes, there was also a leaked photo with what seems to be the future 2018 Ram 1500 pickup.

The leaked image is shown above and might indicate indeed the future model. If this is confirmed, then we will be certainly dealing with one of the most standout pickup trucks in history, the model being highlighted with a new and more aerodynamic design, with C-shaped LEDs and standing on a completely new platform.

One it will arrive, the 2018 Dodge Ram 1500 pickup will feature lightweight materials, which will make it lighter than the current model. Also, the dual-cab version will come with a larger cab and fold-flat seats for the second row.

As for the engine lineup under the hood, the all-new 2018 Dodge Ram 1500 pickup truck will be equipped with upgraded mills in the shape of a 3.6-liter Pentastar 6 engine or a 5.7-liter V8. Later on, a 3.0-liter “EcoDiesel”, with low CO2 emissions and fuel-consumption will be added to the lineup.

The company is also preparing an Australian-based model with a right-hand drive, the new model coming with the same Cummings 6.7-liter straight six-cylinder diesel and a much lower price than the current one, which now costs $139,500.

While Ford was busy developing and releasing the 2017 F-150 on the market, with different aftermarket shops adding fine customizations, Ram has been working hard in developing a completely new Rebel lineup; and we have seen at work the 1500, 2500 and more. GM falls behind but is also trying to cope with a new lineup.

Recently, Ram`s Rebel, which looks extremely hot and aggressive at the same time, has been the subject of a massive and standout project carried out by no other than Hellcat, the division naming the model, TRX.

As we can see in the media gallery below, the Ram Rebel TRX comes with a special design, highlighted by the new bumpers and skid plates, which increase the car`s aggressive looks and personality. Also, the pickup truck is also wrapped with the new suspension and 37-inch massive tires. This makes it perfect for off-road adventures.

On the inside, the Ram Rebel TRX is also looking extremely cool with the sports features and high-end materials, which kinda complements the exterior.

Under the hood, the pickup packs an impressive 428 kW, which is way too much for the Ford`s F-150 Raptor with just 335 kW, and that would pose a serious threat to the Raptor`s supremacy. The pickup truck is also packed with a high-performance eight-sped “TorqueFlite” automatic transmission.

The American company is on a constant search for the perfect rides and the recently launched Rebel TRX is the carmaker`s efforts in delivering its best on such matter.

The Ram Rebel TRX Concept has everything you need from a genuine American pickup truck, like aggressive design, highlighted by the Power-Wagon grille with the “RAM” inscription in black and red body-matching colour, adding side-exit exhaust ports, many scoops as well as the massive 27-inch tires.

Inside, the interior features new added materials like high-end leather with carbon fiber trims, suede with accent mesh cloth inserts on the rear bench and front bucket seats, along with polystable shifter trimmed in black suede and Header Red stitching, six-point harnesses, Mopar floor mats, TFT display with many graphics and so on.

As for the engine under the hood, the Ram Rebel TRX Concept gets a massive 6.2-liter HEMI V8 supercharged engine, with 575 horsepower, sending the power to the wheels via a TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission fitted with a 4×4 Performance Control System.

The Ram Rebel TRX Concept is also equipped with the best driving modes for all seasons, like Normal, Wet/Snow, Off-road and Baja driving modes, adding updated mechanics, including adjustable and high-performance coil-over shock with internal bypass, bespoke upper and lower A-arms and more.

You can feast your eyes on the model in the media gallery below.