2020 RAM 1500 EcoDiesel | Towing and Economy Deep Dive

The RAM 1500 EcoDiesel has the best towing figures in the 1/2-ton diesel segment, but is it the right engine if you want to tow in a hilly area? I love the way small diesels feel with a heavy trailer behind a 1/2 ton truck but there's something I hadn't thought of the first time I drove RAM's third generation 3.0L turbo diesel...
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[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

So. AWD or 4WD? The difference is entirely marketing but since this has a full-time four wheel motivation option, I used AWD in the engine section. I know, I know trucks fans will roast me alive...

[@davidwolf226]

Nahhh... no roasting here, Alex. You're good.

[@tallll70]

I search you videos to get better information of specifics on awd,4wd, You doing really good job

[@jimbo5635]

I just asked the question because you have AWD and 4WD on same graphic

[@leehancock2782]

Its both. Depending on your selection

[@Sig721Tau]

Alex on Autos When are you going to review the 2020 Titan Pro-4X? And I'm not talking about the Titan XD model. The XD lost its diesel powertrain as nd therefore, is a waste of your time.

[@Mike-jq9jo]

You Sir, are a maniac putting all that rock into the back of the SUV. Having said that, I have to say that I admire and respect your dedication in what you are doing. Bravo!

[@baronlowe9579]

Alex on Auto is one of the best and most thorough reviewers on KZbin!

[@8aravindk]

Damn, that’s a thorough review

[@davidwolf226]

Wow... this is one of the best tutorials on this Ram 1500 Eco Diesel (with the trailering functions) that I've ever viewed. Thanks, Alex!

[@802louis]

David Wolf If you want one you better get a fire stinger sure you know what will burn they all are over 1400 of them in Hey state is burnt

[@802louis]

David Wolf Till I catch on fire and burned to death

[@CarlosPerez-wb3qd]

@@802louis have you heard of comas?

[@scottandrews4822]

@@802louis Huh?

[@802louis]

By a GMC Diesel a lot nicer ☝️

[@venom5809]

Shoutout to Alex for the amount of work and effort he put into this video. Also I need that wheelbarrow, for real.

[@hellkitty1014]

Anybody else jealous of Alex and all of his toys!?😂 Nice and thorough review, per usual, Alex!!

[@McFlysGarage]

Diesel in the base level trim...finally a Manufacturer gets it

[@lawrenceseligman7234]

This is the best , mot thorough, review of any truck I have seen and I have seen quite a few lately. Thank you and well done!

[@darrell9616]

Well done video. Very thorough and informative. If I was in this market, your video would be invaluable input for my decision.

[@baldheadlogic]

Great Review Alex. You are in a category of your own. I probably will never tow a vehicle but watched this review.

[@mikepetras6621]

Don’t forget to communicate with your fellow drivers by signaling when merging, exiting, changing lanes, etc. Love your reviews! You always provide all of the info that I’m looking for.

[@gene978]

You have WAY TO MUCH FUN Alex :)

[@TheFiveyoungs]

As always a very good video. Thanks!

[@alexanderdeburdegala4609]

I got the Laramie Longhorn EcoDiesel (with air suspension thanks to your recommendation). I tow and handful of times a year but most the time no trailer just moving car parts around etc and a comfortable daily commuter. I drive 15-20k a year so there was no question about the diesel for MPG for the win. I love my truck so far

[@craigbrogan2721]

I have a 2016 Limited Ecodiesel that I purchased new and will definitely buy another one.

[@cahoonm]

I have a 2016 Jeep Summit with Eco Diesel. I just got a 2020 Limited 1500 4wd Eco Diesel because of the super, positive, fun I have had with my Jeep. I agree with your video and our Cummins Diesels in our 250 Rams work truck engine breaking is awesome and I miss it in the 1500. That being said, I live in Central Texas and actually do little towing, so for me I wanted the beautiful ride, interior and exterior along with my love for diesel torque. You basically feel same way. I think all us out here of really appreciate your honest and informative work on these videos. Thank you so much for this effort.

[@ahmedmahdi1908]

Brilliant video,love the new style presentation.My favorite American car viewer.

[@jacktyler7599]

Re: your question: Engine braking matters a lot, especially out west, for the RV owner, construction worker or other tow'er. Very helpful summary of this option, which I'm considering. Also, 'shoulder season' driving on BLM/USFS lands puts a premium on 4WD. You omitted the added cost of maintaining the diesel and also possible cold weather-related issues in seasonal climates. (E.g. some diesel truck owners 'plug in' here in Montana over the winter). We tow 6,000# to 7,000' elevations on occasion which either engine/RAM combo should handle, based on your summary at the end I'm thinking. Again, *very* helpful review - thank you.

[@kristencdavis9]

I don't leave comments often but great information. I just bought a 2019 ecodiesel Ram 1500. Its equipped with trailer tow breaks, good thing looks like I'll need it. Great review!

[@scottandrews4822]

There is a difference between a trailer brake controller, which the Ram has, and an exhaust brake, which it does not. A trailer brake controller modifies the electric brakes on the trailer so that the braking proportion between the two vehicles is proper. An exhaust brake is either done by varying the shape of the turbo vanes, so that resistance is added, or by a physical device in the exhaust pipe that opens and "clogs" the flow, causing backpressure. Either way, the truck is slowed down. Most semi's use the device in the exhaust pipe, also known as a "Jake brake". Most other late model turbo diesel trucks use the changed geometry on the turbo vanes, IF the exhaust brake is present. For the half ton trucks,only the Silverado 1500 Duramax has a built in exhaust (turbo vane) brake that is instituted when the TOW/HAUL button is pushed. On the HD trucks, all of the later diesel powered trucks have a button labeled Exhaust Brake. I hope this helps.

[@wyojess]

these really are the most thorough and considered reviews on the web

[@matt-jami-Van]

Great review! I drove all of the 1/2 tons. They all have their pros/cons and it was a tough choice. I live in Utah, tow a heavy wakeboat, and also wanted something that could handle some light duty off-road without having to put a lift and tires on it right away. It would also be my daily driver, so the interior comfort/finish was important. I settled on the Ram Rebel with the diesel and couldn't be happier with it. It checked all the boxes of what I was looking for. Truck buyers are very subjective, IMO. So, to each his own. They are all great trucks and it's a good time be a truck buyer. We have such great choices now!

[@alejandromonreal3250]

After a year how is the engine holding? I also live in Utah near West Jordan & plan on buying this as my daily driver. But to also tow my Hummer to go off-roading to Moab or ST. George on the weekends.

[@stephenhendricks103]

I tow nothing more challenging than a couple of trash cans from our house down a long driveway to the street and back. So this video is nothing more than an interesting peek into the complexities of choosing a vehicle for serious towing duties. I do, however, have considerable experience with Route 17 between Santa Cruz and San Jose, California. And all I have to say that those unfamiliar with that route cannot appreciate the challenges depicted in the video. Kudos, Alex.

[@Libertarian_Neighbor]

Stephen Hendricks Highway 17 is so narrow, steep and dangerous. That’s some serious driving Alex is doing. I was thinking the same thing.

[@ALMX5DP]

If we're talking Highway 9 maybe, but 17 is a baby and quite easy (aside from the idiot weekend vacationers) to navigate.

[@Libertarian_Neighbor]

Alan Bowers 17 is fine, unless you’re towing 10k lbs with a half ton truck. Then it’s a different story. And yes, the fact that there’s always “weekender’s” on the road is a big part of what makes it tough.

[@mountainhobo]

17 would have been fine if it weren't for the idiots who drive on it. Apparently anyone with a 20 year old Golf thinks he has a Porsche. Add to that pickup trucks that cross lanes in turns, and it is one of my most disliked routes here. Weekends are worst. I would rather add some miles and take 92.

[@ALMX5DP]

@@Libertarian_Neighbor that does make it a bit trickier with traffic, but if an 18-wheeler can do it (they do have their fair share of accidents), I think most consumers can manage. Biggest I've towed was an F-350 dually with a Focus ST on an open 20' trailer. No trouble with keeping within the lines or managing the fray.

[@skyknight2095]

Like always, excellent review.

[@jamesbockenstette4332]

Great comprehensive review.

[@neitzp]

Very good video. I like this video a lot because I learned a lot. Thank you!

[@mikeh2772]

Thank you for a very thorough review!

[@kipamore]

Possibly your single most informative video in the 6 years I’ve been watching. Well done. The problem with ALL diesels, including tractor trailers, is the repair cost. When they break, they put you in the poorhouse. It’s even worse with the Ram, because you will be married to the dealer for service, and dealers are twice the price with half the competence and double the wait time. With the Cummins you might find someone better, but this the VM the dealer is the only game in town. One repair that’s cheap and easy in the gasser will be thousands on the diesel. And they are not simple repairs - they are mostly emissions related and computer intensive. It’s just the nature of modern diesels.

[@MRP.Germany]

Kip Amore, I’ll have to agree with you there! The oil change on the 2nd generation Ecodiesel is $200 at the stealerships. With the recall of the EGR and the reprogramming of the 2nd gen Ecodiesel that makes the engine slow to respond when cold, I sure hope this new one is better!!!!

[@scottandrews4822]

@@MRP.Germany It's reportedly MUCH BETTER, from what I've read and seen. I woukd give it a try.....

[@bobr7867]

Really appreciate your thoroughness - very good review especially since you towed real weight on a real trailer on terrain that wasn’t dead flat. Couple of thoughts: First, the Ram EcoDiesel has a much higher tow rating than the Silverado so a greater range of trailers can be towed without pushing the truck over its rating. Second, at least on my EcoDiesel a tap of the brakes when going downhill changes the turbo’s vane angle giving you a quasi-engine brake. It’s not a complete engine brake but I’ve been very thankful for it when towing our 7000lb travel trailer up and over the Smokey Mountains and the Blue Ridge Mountains, several of which have passes over 3200 feet. Again, very comprehensive review and very appreciate your real world tests 👍

[@patrickmckowen2999]

Excellent review👍 Cheers

[@michaelhartness4799]

Thank you for such an informative video. I think I would prefer the Ecodiesel.

[@kimojon9665]

in 2021 RAM now has the same camera system as GM for trailering, actually RAM has a better system. Also, RAM installed heads up and trailer back assist. RAM has it all, it's got everything that the combined of the two other trucks have.

[@VolkanERSOY]

Excellent review!

[@thereissomecoolstuff]

Alex is gangsta breakin them speed laws all day long...Tire pressure is where I cheat. 40 psi vs 32-35 psi in good weather gets me 2-3 mpg. Bad weather or rain not recommended. Do at your own risk..

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Generally over pressure is far less of an issue than under-inflating

[@sntstafford]

I split the difference between the door figure and the max pressure on the sidewall if Cowboy Cadillacing on the front and door pressure on the rear; if I leave the rear with too much pressure, unloaded, then horrid bounce and ride along with massive center line wear. Long runs with weight, right up to the max on the rear and maybe a few pounds higher on the front. Seems to work well for me in balancing mpg and tire wear.

[@anthonykaiser974]

@@sntstafford my 05 had a chart for loaded vs unloaded tire pressure. I think it was 70 PSI front, and down to 45 in the rear unloaded. It really comes down to proper tire contact patch unloaded.

[@sarahbrown6395]

you are the best reviewer...thank you!

[@Mainuh]

Well done Alex. Thanks! Still on the fence but considering the Eco diesel for towing

[@hellkitty1014]

@20:12, 4th Gen Ram driver giving thumbs up!

[@paulehlers2225]

I just went trough the decision making process. I drove both of the 3.0L diesels in the GM's & the Ram. I bought the 2020 Ram with the gen-3 ecodiesel simply because Ram has the best styling and interior. I'm very happy with my decision and am loving the ecodiesel. FYI; I live on the front range in Colorado & drive real mountains all the time. I would rather have the turbo charged diesel over the naturally aspirated hemi when driving at high altitudes on big long grades. The engine braking isn't that big of a factor but it would be nice to have on the ecodiesel, especially since it could have been done with the ECU software package and wouldn't require any additional components.

[@etontheground-ETOTG]

I did the same thing for the same reasons

[@Sam1986E]

I have this engine in my Jeep Wrangler Rubicon and i love it!

[@MichaelFrancis222]

I guess for me it would depend on what you have to pull, if you have a 60ft boat that weights so many tons vs a piece of farm equipment, or two cars that may influence the purchase.

[@GIGABACHI]

Amazing job you did there, as usual on your reviews ! That little diesel needs a J-Brake(all diesel powered trucks need one), exhaust brakes(butterfly valve blocking the exhaust is a detrimental device to your engine's health in the long run.........burnt and overheated engine parts, not cool, pun intended).

[@seanotoole3542]

Alex Excellent tutorial (thanks for all your effort and time). Dodge and Chevrolet held out so long to get these 1500 trucks in my area (Long Island) that in Nov. 2019 I ended up purchasing a 2500 Cummins Laramie 4x4 crew cab 6"4" bed MSRP 77K, I got it for 64K. (just for ref.) I wanted the Ram 1500, however I took the plunge on the 2500 due to the engine brake the Cummins long term reliability. I want to see how some high mileage ecodiesel that trailer do after 100K miles. Because I do like the softer ride when not hauling weight, and the great fuel economy vs. the cummins.

[@markdc31]

Great video. I appreciate the extent of your review. You really demonstrated a lot of concerns with trucks. As far as the diesel engine goes, I think you left out an important factor. Range. If someone is towing their boat, a horse, a vehicle or anything that may involve urgency, range is a huge factor. Less stops while towing(or not towing) is a huge convenience. With a 30 gallon tank, getting an extra 4 or 5 mpg can mean an extra couple of hours without having to stop. And the Ram is available with an even larger fuel tank. I’m really surprised you didn’t mention that in detail, especially since you were so detailed with other stuff. The so- called break even time or return on investment or whatever does not factor in the owner’s time. Less trips to fuel the vehicle over the course of the 4.5 years that you referenced adds up. And 1 or 2 less stops on a long towing trip would be appreciated by most. I hope in the future you may consider that information in your videos and mention it in the same detail along with the other numbers and calculations.

[@chris4853]

Very good point, I have the Laramie Longhorn with the 5.7 hemi engine and the 120 L gas tank. People always cringe when I say it has a large tank like that and they reply I would not want to have to fill it, I always tell them that you don’t have to fill it but when you come across a gas station where the gas is very cheap it’s always nice to fill up that large tank which will save you money and time in the long run!

[@Marvin-fn7ks]

Love your thorough unbiased reviews! I just traded my 2015 Ram longhorn eco Diesel for a 2020 Longhorn eco Diesel. I have had 0 problems with the 2015 . Looking forward to the 2020.

[@802louis]

Richard Foisy See you getting for your stinger sure because you know they’re gonna catch on fire shot a part of your parts that’s all they made up off and Chrysler Fiat all about it oh yeah fire baby

[@danibell5829]

Very honest and precise.

[@dongidongi]

You need your own Mr. Truck and friends to create the towing weights :)

[@RAM-KINGOFTRUCKS]

Damm Alex your as good as the Ram..Great Review!!

[@tallll70]

IK this is about diesel, but it's pretty amazing what all gas 6 cyl. trucks can do for regular home owner these days also because of such better transmissions and it's programing. If the gas truck is just used for casual convenience, it will get you around 26 mpg empty hwy, but it has plenty pep to pass and keep up on highways

[@joeyscleaninglady2877]

only spotted two tesla's during the driving review. Super rare in the bay area drive by dozens of them on my commute.

[@Good-luck-Jonathan]

This is still edging the 3.0 Duramax after using both in MPG. it will go down as history as the greatest MPG monster ever created by man in the segment

[@Grof2000]

Great review Alex, I am in a dilemma between 5.7 and 3.0 don't have towing daily maybe few time a year ....

[@gothops154]

I thought I was here for a Ram review but instead I learned electric wheelbarrows exist. I will be thinking about this for at least the next hour

[@DBotelho84]

Hello Alex. First, thank you for your time and efforts putting this together. I am looking at purchasing my first 4x4 Ram 1500, 2019 and UP because of the new design, and I can't decide whether the EcoDiesel or 5.7 is right for me. My main reason for purchasing a half ton would be for the utility and occasional adventure, but rarely for towing. So mainly it would be a grocery-getter and my primary transportation to work (20-30 miles/day). Are you able to provide any insight or experience when it comes to long term maintenance of the EcoDiesel compared to gasoline? I'm curious if the fuel savings will outweigh future costs of ownership. Thank you!

[@Jayace777]

Great review Alex. Any idea what the hitch weight was with that trailer and how was the squat on the rear end?

[@yogiyoda]

Nice review. When will you review the 1500 duramax?

[@MrAges-yi2fc]

Axle ratio is important to know, did this 2020 Ram 1500 have 3:92 gears?

[@scottandrews4822]

The trailer backup assist dial is available on the Ram starting in 2021m FYI.

[@inquisitivesoul8978]

Thanks Alex. I wish you would have mentioned the axle gear ratio. 3.21 or 3.92. I;m guessing 3.21 since your mileage numbers were pretty good and I believe the 3.21 is standard.

[@AliKing-kf1nk]

Alex - engine breaking and exhaust breaking are nice features, but not enough to endure the day to day inconvenience of the 5.7l . I think there are so many other positives to the motor.

[@rickfrei6016]

Exemplary job of doing this review!!

[@111danish111]

24 mph is great considering the size of thing.

[@ifishcatfish]

Alex, what is the difference in fuel economy of RWD vs 4WD that is used in RWD mode? Is the extra gear just weight when not used? Or does it deteriorate efficiency like in AWD. Love my subaru but awd is horrible for fuel economy. I dont know how much worse the 4WD is when use in 2WD mode. Love ur videos. U and i have something in common. I always agree with ur opinions in aesthetics of vehicles

[@reserva120]

Nice job..Allan

[@valiantcuda]

In the prior generation trucks, I found that when towing a trailer around the 8k lbs mark, the oil temperature got (sometime very) hot! Same with the EGTs going up hills when pulling. Did you happen to note the oil temps? Did it heat up a lot?

[@LeoTheShortGuy]

Very impressive video as always. Sometimes I forget how spoiled we are by AoA quality and knowledge. I like how fast you talk and convey so much information. Keep up the excellent work. :).

[@DavidMosby]

Great video. I have a 2015 Ecodiesel. NEVER FLOOR IT! It cratered my engine and thank God for warranties! I want a new one with crew cab, not quad. For 10% better fuel economy all the time, I will stick with the RWD. FYI, I don't care about engine braking.

[@Clobercow1]

If it was a 4.0, I think it would be an all-around winner.

[@james2042]

4.0 liter?

[@joshuakerstein9573]

4.0l v8 diesel 😎

[@peiguy1982]

I owned a 2016 EcoDiesel and currently own a 2018 Hemi. The engine will never pay for itself or break even in overall cost of ownership vs. the Hemi. For example in Canada they want 285 dollars for an oil change at the dealer vs. 56 dollars for the Hemi. Every second oil change a 100 dollar fuel filter done by the dealer is required. (Both can be done in your garage I know, but dealer does not have service records documented). Also diesel where I live is roughly a 20 cent premium over regular. And last but not least my DEF system had a complete failure at 82k km at 2 years old (emissions warranty is 2 years and 40k km) during a cold snap, and fixing that at the dealer cost me 3300 dollars. We certainly pay the northern tax with FCA up here in Canada for parts vs. the USA. Anyways that was the end of my diesel experiment and I didn't save one red penny. I was just commuting with the vehicle, not towing it was a car engine I was using it as designed. Had none of the horror story engine reliability issues that seemed common enough on the second gen. Nice video but IMO you never save with a diesel they always get you in the end, especially with these modern emissions systems.

[@troyhickman8577]

Well said and thank you for the information! I am looking at the Limited trim. On one hand I would love the fuel mileage from on cross country trips. On the other hand I only drive about 8-12k miles per year. The truck would be living most of its life in the garage so a gas engine would be best.

[@scottandrews4822]

Sounds like the cost of maintenance in Canada is MUCH higher than in the US.

[@peiguy1982]

@@scottandrews4822 Yes dealer price for parts and labor are insane. I priced DEF pump from mopar USA at 500 US dollars. They wanted 2000 Canadian up here. Not sure why. Bend over at the dealer up here.

[@paulwicklund5044]

Do a review of your backhoe.

[@vernlochtefeld1626]

MR Tuning / Ecodiesel Owners Canada has an engine & transmission tune for this truck. It includes a turbo brake for controlled down mountain grade speeds from trailer push. Stronger than GM 3.0 diesel’s turbo brake. And much stronger than Hemi engine brake. Slightly better mileage when following the same rate of acceleration & speed. Basic stage 1+ is engine & transmission retaining full emissions and dynos 50 HP plus 50TQ more at the wheel. Stock is factory rated at 260HP 480TQ. GMs 277HP 460TQ but has the ECM locked.

[@Placeitinmybox1]

Ram has the best interior. GMC/Chevy is the most comfortable especially for 6'5ers and above. Would be interesting to compare GM's new air suspension vs Ram's.

[@LumberjackAdam]

Alex, great review as always - can you shed any light on why only Ford has a high payload option? With 1500lbs of capacity, it's easy to run short if you put 4-5 folks in the vehicle and still want to tow.

[@scottandrews4822]

It's because the aluminum body on their trucks is lighter. Less body weight = more payload.

[@jamespenner1412]

Alex great job as always! A few things that I found interesting was that TFL TRUCK did a video testing the hemi vs. EcoD on the ike gantlet run. They showed different results, yes the hemi had 35inch tires but the EcoD acually had less brake applications (3) then 4 in the hemi going down the mountain. (Was a 8700lb trailer for this test) And for point #2 Then TFL TRUCK tested the new 3.0 duramax same test except only 7800lb trailer this time round. The 3.0 duramax with the engine brake had to use the brakes 6 or 7 times with a lighter trailer then the eco diesel. I understand you had more weight then 7800 and 8700lbs and maybe the hemi would out perform with a heavier trailer, just thought it was interesting seeing as you were praising the 3.0 duramax engine brakes. Keep your videos coming thanks!!

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

As Roman will tell you, it’s very hard to comparably equip trucks but getting as close as possible I’ve had better results with the GM diesel downhill

[@james2042]

The issue there was TFL let it cruise down the hill on its own merit rather than cutting off the overdrive gears, so it chilled at low rpm negating both engine breaking and exhaust breaking. If you read the comments of the video it was essentially filled with people saying that. They take the time to show the gear limiter, they should try using it. But TFL can't get anything right so I wouldn't trust any of the data they release. They are only good for flashy and fun stuff.

[@jamespenner1412]

@@james2042 they test all the trucks the same, they do it like that cus the truck is suppose to figure it out on it's own rater then be forced to. Mr trucks channel had the same results as TFLTRUCK.

[@james2042]

@@jamespenner1412 thats because tfl's method is copied from mr truck since he's the one who taught them how to test it. and mr truck is a babbling idiot so hes like a cancer to tfl that just won't go away

[@jamespenner1412]

@@james2042 I like them both, although mr truck is obsessed with saying 10 speed lol

[@Kyungone]

11:00 When you are trick or treating at rich neighbors and they say you can take as many as candies you want.

[@Moondoggy1941]

Full-size candies.

[@dlmetzger]

Engine braking is different for gas and diesel engines. The gas engine closes the throttle and creates a negative pressure on the piston during intake stroke. This creates engine breaking on a gas engine. The diesel engines of the past did not have a throttle and did not have engine breaking. Some trucks had a Jake Brake that opened the exhaust valves at start of compression stroke and slowed the vehicle. Some of the newer diesel engine use the turbo to slow the engine when engine braking is desired. And to further complicate things, the new diesel engine do have a throttle but I'm not sure how and when it's engaged.

[@gene978]

OH NO NOT 30 degrees in Cali? I changed my mind about moving their.

[@gene978]

Daniel Hernandez Thanks for the invite but you do know I was teasing right? I would kill to be able to tinker with my car year round and be able to be close my to so many awesome places never mind all the cool collectables which are all hidden up here. I miss owning the few I had but was so tired of paying storage and not being able to get at them so easliy. Now they’d be worth so much more. expeically the ‘63 Lincoln and the ‘63 Dodge Dart Phenox. gotta love push button trans.

[@LeoTheShortGuy]

I should look at this. :).

[@Derekforeal]

Ram did such a good job inside and out.

[@bird718]

Ram 1500 Laramie Longhorn, maybe the limited edition. because its more of a personal vehicle than a work horse and most of my needs are light payloads that any suv can handle.

[@cpparkcity]

I have had a 2019 1500 5.7 eTourqe Limited with 6'4" bed for about 18 months now, can came from a gen 1 eco diesel. I have been very disappointed in the 5.7 as I cannot achieve an avg of more than 14mpg (12 around town, 16 highway). Towing is strong, but the trade off for the horrible mpg when not towing is not worth it. Considering going to the gen 3 but am a bit gun shy

[@bunc11]

is there any video about that jeep's lift kit/tyres? :D

[@rkalla]

Around 10:30 - "his toys - where does he get all those wonderful TOYS!"

[@zaitcev0]

One note about the engine braking with a diesel. Since there's no throttle, there's no pumping loss, which brakes a gasoline engine. A diesel engine will only provide effective braking if the timing of the exhaust valves is altered. {Woops, commented too soon.}

[@scottandrews4822]

Not true. There is an exhaust brake or the transmission downshifts in Tow Haul mode. Along with the service brakes, there is nothing else. Semis use a Jake brake where the exhaust is electronically blocked via a device in the exhaust pipe.

[@leehancock2782]

4WD ELECTRIC WHEELBARROW?? WAIT WHAT😎😂😂

[@jazamora7521]

For real lol. I'm surprised he didn't use that little excavator or whatever it's called to load it up 🤣

[@joshuakerstein9573]

Jelly

[@chriswelch3417]

Hi Alex, greetings from Sunnyvale. I've driven Hwy 17 many many times. I could use a little advice It is time to upgrade my current pickup. She's a 2001 Ford F258 with the 7.3 diesel engine. Hell of a truck, but with 21 years and almost a quarter million miles under the hood, and a wife with a bad back (the seats), I'm stuck between a rock and hard decision. Since I'm a diesel mechanic with a lot of expertise in Cummins, I want the Ram 2500 with the 6.7. But since I only now use my truck for camping, emergency services, and towing our camper to either, the truck half of my life is much less. Also, with diesel prices skyrocketing, fuel economy is a big deal now, and when I found out that I can "downgrade" to a 1500 Ecodiesel and get three times the mpg, I'm very conflicted. Our trailer is currently a old 4,000-5,000 trailer (probably go lighter on the next trailer), and I almost never exceed 6000 lbs in towing. We will drive mainly to Bodega Bay area for camping, and for ES we will go to places like Yosemite, Truckee, and Fresno. Our off road needs are "when we need to, we will go" and don't do a lot of joy mudding. But we tackle a lot of hills and mountains with steep grades and hairpin turns. With a little glimpse into my driving life, would you recommend the smaller, lighter, less fuel-guzzeling 1500 Ecodiesel, or would you think that I may be just better off with the bigger, heavy, takes-on-everything 2500 with the mighty Cummins?

[@simontallboy209]

I like the new Ram, but the prices on new trucks is beginning to get silly. Also in Canada you can get the Ecodiesel in all trims, and that's disappointing. I'll be keeping my 2015 Ram Big Horn. From what I've seen getting the new Hemi won't get me much better mileage, and having look at whats on the dealers lot I'm not going to get much better payload or towing, just alot more debt. Plus I think the previous generation looks better. Enjoyed the video.

[@williamdrijver4141]

Not sure if he mentioned it, but a bed cover makes the truck more aerodynamic. And thus more fuel effcient (But will also make it even more expensive....)

[@scottandrews4822]

Not true. The difference is negligible. Look up "boundary layer" -- that is what is produced on an open bed with a tailgate up.

[@viki6or]

i dont understand something. my bmw f11 (5er touring) has a 640kg payload which is 1400pounds. so it has the same payload as a truck?..

[@commonsenseguy8189]

Deisel is cheaper if you calculate full tank range... you will pay less for traveling the same miles... i.e. 900 miles (30MPG diesel x 30 gallon tank example) in a diesel tank vs 900 miles with a refuel in gas (20MPG gas x 30 gallon tank) = diesel cheaper. Purchase DEF fluid at a truck stop at bulk rate pricing out of DEF pump, and do your own oil changes and the cost is a lot lower than paying retail for this maintenance.. and you get the piece of mind of knowing it was down correctly.

[@philtittle5618]

Just wondering, were the fuel calculations done by hand or the overly optimistic gauges which can read as much as two miles per gallon more than what you actually get.....

[@steveleth2808]

Great details on your video. However, not much I heard on sway when semi's pass you on highway? My goal is comfortable controllable driving when towing my 2500RL GRand Design Imagine camper (approx 6800 lbs loaded) . Driving mostly in SE US with limited mountain or major hill driving. However desire is longer road trips throughout US. Downhill braking is low priority for now while improving sway and MPG is top priority. Currently I have 2016 Expedition 4x4 Limited 3.5L EcoBoost with 3.73 axle upgraded with Bilstein shocks. With WD and sway hitch, the highway experience is tolerable for shorter trips (3-4 hours ) but longer highway drives are not relaxing even though I am traveling at conservative 58-60 mph. At this speed, I get 7.3-8.3 mpg (much less than my camping friend 9.5- 10 mpg with his Silverado). #1) How is the sway of the RAM towing? #2) what mpg does 5.7L w/ etorque vs just 5.7 get when towing? Thanks STL

[@scottandrews4822]

@Steve Leth Like most newer vehicles thst are setup to tow, the Ram has trailer sway control standard. This is software that actually brakes one of the trailer and/or truck wheels briefly when traiker sway is detected. It works GREAT, at least in my experience. As far as the mpg of the etorque Hemi 5.7L, from what I have read and watched on KZbin, there is little to no difference in mpg with this system. The difference with this addition for mpg assistance is academic. The only advantage it provides is that smooths out the stop-start transition and makes it less jolting or jittery. Also, some people say that they can feel it providing assistance with moving the truck the first 100 feet or so; other people say that that is not true, and that it can't be felt. Most everyone agrees that it's not worth the difference in price. I hope this helps.

[@jordanwomack8301]

Hi Steve, If you’re looking for sway control, you should really consider an Andersen WD hitch. The sway control is unmatched. My TT is a Bullet 250bhs and about 7000# loaded. My TV is a Tundra. I tow in West Texas, and am frequently caught in 30-40 mph crosswinds when towing. Combine this with frequently passing oncoming oil field semi’s on the two lane Texas roads, and the sway can be downright scary. The Andersen hitch has almost completely eliminated sway for me. I’m also considering a change to the eco diesel for the increased torque because I’m ALWAYS towing with a headwind or crosswind, and the extra torque would really help with that. So, whether you get the ED or not, the Andersen hitch is a game changer. It’s freaking amazing. Just FYI, I don’t work for Andersen haha. andersenhitches.com/collections/wd-hitch/products/4-drop-rise-weight-distribution-hitch

[@citytianyu]

I never thought vehicle review is a labor intensive job before this video : j.

[@JamesRussoMillas]

Nobody: Alex: I'll just add some granite from this pile here

[@matte7119]

Love all your videos. Extremely thorough! However I’m not sure I’m following the math on a $800/yr savings. If someone drives 15k miles and pays $2.25 for gas and $2.75 for diesel (about average where I live) and gets 17mpg for gas and 26mpg for diesel then the cost savings is around $400 a year. That’s a 8.25 year break even on a $3300 upgrade. Add def and higher cost oil changes and it drops farther. Has to be closer to 10 years. Are you assuming gas and diesel cost the same? Is it the same in California? I just can’t make the math work for a diesel.

[@tc2realestate885]

@Myballsitchsomethingfierce love the handle...🤣

[@5cent27]

Owning an ecodiesel and having owned 2 hemi 1500 and a Jeep JKU with the pentastar v6 I'd say the ecodiesel really should be more compared to the pentastar than the hemi. I'm finding this is one big mistakes ecodiesel owners make. Its not a hemi nor is it a cummins. It really needs to be compared to that 3.6 pentastar. Comparable mpg (better towing mpg), more torque, better towing. Really the question needs to be "Do you daily drive your truck? Does gas mileage matter to you? Do you need a full sized truck? Do you occasionally tow in the 7-8k lb range? Well the ecodiesel is what you're looking for.". Its not a hemi and it will never be the 6.7 cummins. If you need the horsepower of the hemi and mpg doesnt matter to you then get the hemi. If you need to tow a work trailer that's 10k lbs everyday or have a 35 foot gooseneck camper then get a 6.7 Cummins.

[@nintendoatarikiller]

In Canada, the 3.0 TDI isn't available on the base trim. You have to step up to the Rebel trim to get the diesel.

[@james2042]

the rebel is the third highest trim. you mean bighorn?

[@TheSlickpt]

@@james2042 no rebel and above for an ED

[@james2042]

@@TheSlickpt ignoring the trx, the rebel is the third highest trim. The rebel is a laramie with the offroad package included and a suspension lift. the bighorn is below the laramie, but is one above the base

[@purplepants491]

@@james2042 it’s rebel or above for ED in Canada. There is a sport trim between the big horn trim and the rebel trim too.

[@rayemanuel7460]

Love the look of the new Ram, however, FCA quality and reliability are questionable. By the way, do you live in La Honda?

[@scottandrews4822]

@Ray Emanuel FCA quality is not suspect and is equal to, or better than, Ford and Chevrolet. I have a 2014 Ram 1500 Crew Cab Hemi 8 speed with the 3.92 locking rear gear and over 160k miles. I have had VERY few issues. I was a GM man before and have owned numerous Silverado trucks, Tahoes, and Suburbans and can tell you that I have had LESS problems with my Ram than ANY GM product that I owned. Don't always believe what you read. Try it for yourself like I did. Then, you can say that the rumors of FCA's bad quality are UNTRUE too.

[@joshbartlett3470]

When’s the next AOA live show??

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

February most likely

[@Sig721Tau]

@@AAutoBuyersGuide 68 mph? That's not the optimal range for fuel economy. 50 to 60 mph is correct speed range.

[@nuduo9255]

What’s its braking distance and turning circle?

[@stronglikebull2994]

I'm in this current predicament. Long story but FCA is buying back my Rebel. So do I go for the Ecodiesel since it's going to be a free upgrade? Probably not. I've gotten accustomed to driving the Hemi and it's so much fun to drive. It really gets going every time you give it the beans. That being said there is some lag when you drive the EcoDiesel and try to accelerate. It will still spin the tires but after the engine has revved up and gets going a little bit. Upgrading to the 3.92 gear ratio helps the pick up... a lot! I'm probably going to order the hemi but the #1 reason I'm not going with the ecodiesel is the timing. This is a first year vehicle and a first year motor. While its impressive and I think they did a great job there are going to be revisions for the first 2 years. There's already a recall on the EGR system. So I'd wait but if you do get the 3.92 axle ratio. It should help with towing, bigger tires, and acceleration.

[@troyhickman8577]

"FCA is buying back my Rebel". May I ask why? The reason I ask is I am looking at a Limited that will have to be ordered and cost $$$$ so the insight would be helpful! Thank you.