2024 RAM vs CHEVY vs FORD TORTURE TEST! Heavy towing, dirt roads - SHOCK WINNER & major problems

[@swallowsjeremyy]

Uhoh, the Australians are posting, I stayed up too late! Jk, its a nice treat getting these at 2:30am in Florida. My favorite 4x4 channel!

[@4WD247]

Haha love the commitment mate!

[@SunriseAviationOffical]

Damn 😭

[@DakotaOverlander]

@@swallowsjeremyy lol I’m never up that late lol 😂

[@alexlamb9961]

Alabama here brother I feel ya

[@Samthemule2003]

​@@DakotaOverlanderI live in western Nevada and normally stay upt till midnight, 1 am here.

[@HardwayRanch]

Howdy from the States! Here is how I use low range in my 300,000+ mile 2004 Chevy Silverado 2500HD Crew Cab long box 4x4 Duramax LLY/Allison auto trans. I use low range when towing heavy off pavement. Here in the States we do not have many unpaved roads with speed limits above 30 mph and so low range gives the transmission the option of shifting to a better gear instead of staying in 1st or 2nd all the time at lower speeds. Many of the remote campgrounds have steep winding dirt roads leading to them and low range provides better engine compression braking and better throttle response at lower speeds - ideal for towing heavy. I also use four wheel drive high range in slick road conditions like heavy rain, fresh snow, compacted snow/ice. Having both axles locked together makes for far better braking than relying upon the anti-lock computer! This is a huge improvement - you have to experience it to realize how much better braking on slippery roads are in four wheel drive than in two wheel drive. I love this channel BTW!

[@98dodge360v8]

What are you talking about? The vast majority of the US with farmland has tons of unpaved gravel roads with 55mph speed limits.

[@Robbobshiskabob]

​@@98dodge360v8 exactly

[@camaro1139]

How does 4 wd equel better stopping?? Unless theres some nanny control, 4wd has zero to do with braking.

[@98dodge360v8]

@@camaro1139 It can help if you are engine braking, especially on steep hills. Keeps the rear end from breaking loose.

[@JW-qf2fx]

youve done over 300k miles in less than 9 months? wot

[@ladypurple6919]

In the USA we build these trucks because we use these trucks. The trucks y'all are seeing is the hi end decked out cabs. The standard truck has the same running gear. We put service beds and in case's needed out fitted with a crane. We WORK these trucks. And we play hard, take them in the back country and mountains running LOW range. Then going to work the next day.

[@shackleton274]

It's OK, us Aussies are still feeling intimidated by them.... haha

[@PassiveDrftr]

Here in Texas, i dont really see these new rigs running that hard... OBS, yea, those are built rigs, but these new plastic things aint runnin as hard as they used to

[@AussieDestinationsUnknown]

We’ve been touring around Australia full time for over 4 years in a Silverado 2500HD. We’re done over 90,000ks and thrown it through seriously harsh conditions. It’s never let us down. We’ll never go back to a normal 4x4

[@0HOON0]

@@AussieDestinationsUnknown If you have a 2011 to 2016, you may want to do a CP3 conversion. It's bad enough when the fuel system self destructs here in the states. I can't imagine trying to deal with it in Australia.

[@DakotaOverlander]

⁠@@harrywalker968Isuzu built engine yes but not the truck which is built by General Motors the 2500 hd Duramax Diesel has earned its reputation in the Diesel community bar none I own one had it for 18 years best pickup I ever owned Yes 7.3 powerstroke was legendary AT its time built on the reputation of international and placed in the mighty F250 and F350 though 7.3 faced discontinuation and was downgraded to that awful 6.4 powerstroke which hurt the reputation ford had as for these new models now are all pretty well balanced due to American emissions regulations that showed up due to rolling coal users that pissed me off just like you negative and disrespectful posts on others peoples post and currently your 7.3 has no comparison to this show whatsoever that is testing the most current trucks that you can buy at the moment and do us all a favor n take you negativity everywhere thank you n have a good day from United States 🇺🇸

[@jamiemagdeleyns9152]

@@harrywalker968not Isuzu just the engine is developed by Isuzu and still its not related to Isuzu on the new gen

[@dangrec1]

@AussieDestinationsUnknown You didn't say WHY you will never go back. What about it is so much better? Does it use less fuel? Is it more comfortable? Is it better off road? What are the reasons for your choice?

[@brendanstreet1868]

Harsh conditions 🤔😂

[@craigquann]

Those trucks will hold up just fine. We beat them in just as harsh of conditions in the oil fields, farming, construction, logging etc. Plus we use them as snow plows. The chassis are boxed and over-built for what payloads they're being used for. The biggest wear items would be tie rods and upper/lower ball joints. Keep em greased. As far as driveline breakages... you'd have to be intentionally trying hard. Like anything, maintenance goes a long way.

[@poweredbyrice5708]

No they won't lol, they come from the factory with defects....here in the US they are used by boomers to get a loaf of bread and still fall apart.

[@josepharthur2338]

When they say off-roading, we are referring to our remote outback tracks where there might not be another soul for 1000kms. Also, would you take one of these to Moab? Stuff like that.

[@craigquann]

@josepharthur2338 yes. Absolutely. However for you, going remote. Spares might be a issue. But yes Absolutely. We use them here in North America as overlanding and trail running. That's ZR2 is a Baja racing platform out of the box. We also have the Colorado ZR2 which would be similar to your Utes. But factory on 33" and some trims offer 35".They're twin locked and major powered engines. The Silverado ZR2 can even be optioned with a 3.0L inline 6 diesel (though I don't think it's available to you)

[@josepharthur2338]

@@craigquann if you’re familiar with the channel, you’ll have seen the climies track where it goes up a waterfall. I don’t think (and clearly the panel who have done that kind of off-roading don’t think) any of the models that were reviewed would be suitable. And remember, that’s what this comparison is about. We cannot compare stuff that doesn’t exist as an option

[@craigquann]

@josepharthur2338 I'm aware of the channel. What do you think we use? Lol. I'm telling you that ZR2 will be just fine. The others are pavement/jobs site 4x4. The 2500s would definitely be too heavy, but make great touring trucks. Remember where Graham takes a Stock Dmax. Granted. The price tag is probably one reason for you not too. Definitely wouldn't want to flood it however... lol. I'm not a fan of all the BS electronics. I would take my own truck.

[@cal__van1]

As an American I’m stoked yall are doing this test, good see the other side of the world getting to experience and appreciate our trucks

[@stephenfrost545]

i have a 2023 f150 lariat, 5.0 coyote with a 3l Whipple supercharger and 3.73 gears. Man I wish you guys could feel how amazing this truck is to tow with. It gets better fuel economy than the ecoboost or powerboost and it tows effortless with my enclosed 16' with HD axles, filled to the brim.

[@kevinsteele2773]

The problem here is that if we compare fuel prices it’s would cost you about $10 a gallon But mint truck must sound 👌

[@bradypierron8736]

Same! That’s the exact build I have. (Louisiana)

[@stephenfrost545]

@@bradypierron8736 I'm up in Alberta, I frequently head south to East Texas. I sure wish I could move down there

[@chrisreyes154]

No way a Whipple 5.0 gets better fuel economy than a Powerboost.

[@stephenfrost545]

@@kevinsteele2773 with the amount of towing I do, the premium fuel bill with the Whipple truck over X KM travelled is still cheaper than the powerboost towing with regular or premium fuel. I averaged between 5.6 - 6.1 mpg with the powerboost. I'm averaging between 9 - 10.2 mpg with the Whipple truck. Same enclosed trailer and same equipment setup.

[@Gregnoble-v7h]

Bought One of the first Ram 1500s converted in Aus By ASV just passed 154k only issues have been what I have done to it with after market options, best of all Harrop super charger this thing is still a beast for towing up mountain passes as I have no one sitting on my rear at 440hp to rear wheels and am now sitting on 15 lp100k across the life of my Ute,I have never reset the fuel gauge how’s that compared to your 200 ? These are more 4WD capable than they are given credit fore in this video I am usually called out to get my sons utes out of trouble Enjoy 👍

[@007Knightjp]

Agreed.

[@shackleton274]

100% I feel like they're pandering to their target market and too scared to hurt their feelings....

[@007Knightjp]

@@shackleton274 Agreed, especially when each has spent quite a considerable amount to build a 200 series Ute and a Y62 Ute, instead of getting one of these 1500s.

[@mattl7557]

I drive my 2015 F-150 from West Texas, USA to Colorado and Utah, and I drive many of the "Jeep" trails and dirt mountain passes with my family riding in comfort. Of course there are trails I by-pass to avoid panel damage or obvious clearance issues. I know it is not a rock crawler. Last thing I want to do is tow a trail vehicle to a trail, unless its a motorcycle. We drove the stock F-150, with upgraded tires, over White Rim Road in Utah and had no issues. Today, with 150,000 miles, no issues with the turbo or anything else on the truck. ...and yes, it tows great.

[@PassiveDrftr]

I believe it can be wheeled, but i have a hard time seeing anything newer running what people run in their OBS or trail rig, definitely respect the usage you're putting yours through! Texas is my home and i love going into Colorado just for the trip

[@tysonzielke4369]

just a comment about comparison, the ford f150 is just a lariat fx4 whereas the zr2 is a fully built offroad truck(baja style-ish). So the towing of the ford as an everyday truck is definitely the happy medium as on road it is tough to beat. The ram is also setup similar to the ford. Off road the chevy would been much better as the suspension is much softer (hence the lower towing capacity).

[@NottiOne]

I have an older f250, but in America their is huge support for these trucks. Don't reinvent the wheel. I have a Carli 4 inch lift with Carli valved Fox 2.0. It's like a Baja truck. Running 35 inch tires.

[@johnfitzgerald5158]

My Ram 2500 Power Wagon comes stock with front/rear lockers, M12000 Warn winch, swaybar disconnect, skid plates and 2" over stock lift. With sliders, aftermarket bumpers on each end and 37" tires, I take it rock crawling. You would be surprised what they are capable of.

[@h115oscilator]

" Do not take them low range, hard off road driving" while testing with a Zr2, which is a truck that trades some towing and payload for a more capable hard off roading and overlanding suspension set up. 😂😂 Side note, Silverado is also the only truck here that still offers a diesel option in the light duty/ half ton truck segment where you can get a 3L inline six turbo diesel with 277hp and 460ft/lbs of torque Additional side note: Chevy has updated the 2500 with a much nice front end and has also offered the Zr2 in the 2500, which means you have a heavy-duty diesel that is very off-road capable

[@codemy666]

I mean sure, but such a long wheelbase compared to much smaller Toyotas and Nissans is going to struggle crawling some more challenging spots

[@HardstylePete]

In Australia all the off-road tracks have been cut out by "narrow" short wheel base 4wds. I don't doubt the zr2 could climb rocks in open terrain but with the narrow steep mountain tracks we drive, I could see many issues.

[@StephenFogarty2023]

In Australia We have a much, much smaller model range of these vehicles, on offer. Sadly 1500 Silverado is only offered here, by GMSV with a V8 motor

[@CrazyCray852]

You guys should do a 4wd wagon of the year, the wagons could include: Prado Pajero Everest Fortuner Landcruiser Patrol

[@gabyherrmann9894]

​ Yes you are so right.

[@4WD247]

Mattteeee... have you read out posting schedule or what! 👀🤭😉

[@micahbraddock3261]

what about the ineos Grenadier?

[@putrol4.2]

Spoiler alert Toymota wins as it's there favorite brand and no one else has an honest chance of winning

[@mikezog1030]

@@4WD247 Do iit yes please before the new Toyotas come in and then after

[@Stratchona]

Nice channel. Im Canadian and glad to see you guys getting some real pick up truck/ute's for a change.. My mom lives in Melbourne and i do visit from time to time but over the years and I have been so disappointed in Aussies ute's a lot.. Here in Canada im on my 5th pick up truck since the 90's .. Currently I own F150 XTR model with a 5.0L V8 engine, quad cab and 6 1/2 foot box and love it(I paid 42k for it).. Im at 200km since the truck was purchased in 2015 and knock on wood i have not had any issues to date just regular maintenance .. Me previous truck when i trade it was at 420k and that was 2011 F150 XLT extended cab with the 5.0L V8 (I paid 34k for it) and the only major issue was i replaced both front wheel bearing at 320k.. I can reassure you the durability of this trucks is good just dont skip on maintenance.. I truly hope the Aussie government cuts down this ridiculous prices on this imports and let you guys have the freedom to enjoy and drive this vehicle as we do.. Cheers.

[@pablomax9376]

Clearly, going by mullets, Tommy is the one to be trusted.

[@remembermorrison]

Love the video, Shauno nailed it, Americans do off-road these trucks. The F-150 Tremor and Raptor are very good off-road. The Chevy ZR2 as well. Then comes the GOAT, the Ram 2500 Power Wagon, comes factory with solid axles, front and rear lockers, electronic sway bar disconnect, and high articulation suspension Arms. Very capable off-road.

[@jayhuskey2280]

Follower from Texas here. Y'all's regulations are a real ball buster! We don't even have annual inspections on our vehicles in my county! Only commercial trucks.

[@rockstargrader]

Not all states in Australia do the annual inspections

[@anthonym6078]

This was super interesting, I knew American trucks were expensive over there, but didn't realize the 2500 sized trucks were that much money. And it still feels so weird seeing a right hand drive F150 or Ram 1500 of Silverado lol. This video must have taken a lot of time and effort to make, but I'm sure it was fun and at the same time you got to test out these awesome trucks.

[@nicholasalbrecht9357]

I have a 2002 Ram 2500, long wheelbase with the Cummins diesel. Its certainly no rock crawler but it handles itself fine on easy to moderate off road trails in Colorado. I've taken it over Imogene pass, Engineer pass, plenty of old mining roads, and so far its size has not prevented me getting to the top of the mountain. When wheeling an HD truck, you will need to be aware of the long wheelbase but careful line choice can do a lot to mitigate that. Here in the US, (cheaper trim levels of) these trucks are commonly used by tradesmen on construction sites, farms, ranches, squishing smaller cars in parking lots 😉. Short of hard-core rock obstacles, these full sized American trucks are intended to handle extended periods of use in 4wd off road or on unpaved farm-to-market roads, and do it while getting work done.

[@manyuhahulisani2091]

4WD 24/7 is the reason i love how Australia kits out their UTEs and what to watch out for and to make the correct decision..... love you guys all the way from South Africa... and yes I'll be wheeling with you legends someday✌️✌️

[@graveltravelcanada]

From North America here. I cant believe what youre paying. Insane. 1000+ f150's are made every day. For us over here finding parts and service is what i expect you find for your land cruisers. Cool to see the aussies added trays and canopies to our trucks. Keep on keeping on

[@ARMSPACECOM]

Watching this puts things into an interesting perspective for those outside the US. I personally own a Ram 2500 and I would never consider going back to a 1500 or smaller. now, as a caveat to that, I grew up on a ranch, and I live on one now, we use our 2500/3500's for EVERYTHING. and most ranchers/farmers I know in the US wouldn't be caught without at least one of them on the ranch, that being said most of us also have a 1500 for those times we need to run to town with the family or to grab something small. I do find it a little funny that they are talking about towing a 4-ton RV as a towing test, but then again, I use my 2500 to tow a water trailer which comes in around 6.5 tons 60+ miles a week, and that's not even considering hauling stuff like firewood, hay, feed, tractors, horse trailers etc. I would love to see them give these trucks to a couple aussi ranchers and see what they think of them!

[@michaeldye4318]

You commented about towing off-road vehicles or small campers. Most of us here use them for real work like heavy equipment trailers, work beds with lots of heavy tools, and for large fifth-wheel trailers. That’s for 2500 and 3500 series models.

[@TyFenwick]

Great video gents ! Up the F150 🔥 New F250 from Harrison Ftrucks would have been the go for the test. Ford needs to start importing F250 now !

[@KingLuis1985]

the new f250's are a big improvement over the one used in the video.

[@rigged100]

@@KingLuis1985 agree, thats a 2018/2019 model, my old mans 2021 F350 is fantastic

[@LimestoneCoastCustoms]

I bloody knew you'd be here with a comment Ty, I know you love your F Truck! but, I'm still loving my old Suburban 🤣🤣

[@jorobson1]

Interesting outcome! Unfortunately the Chev 2500 you tested was the 22 model with the older dash setup. The 24 has a much more modern setup. When talking value for $$$$ look at the price of a new 300 series Landcruiser! They aren't a cheap option and will never be in the towing league of the American units. We run a 24 Chev HD and I learnt early in the piece that dealer support was average to say the least. I believe it is on the improve as they get more units out there on the road. No they are not off road vehicles as such but you would be surprised where they will actually go. I have found several online American shops where I purchase the consumable parts (filter etc) and can have them to my door in around 7 days. We have come from a 200 series Landcruiser and the difference towing in is huge. No longer does the caravan dictate the drive (straight physics says one should have a tow unit heavier than what is being towed). It is also actually good on fuel burn slightly better than the cruiser was. Comfort wise the Chev eats the kms and you arrive less stressed not having to be slightly on edge towing something that has more mass than the tow vehicle. Build up a chopped Cruiser or Y62 and the American trucks really start to look like good value.

[@stewarttalby9014]

100% agree. Everything you said is spot on. Come from a LR Discovery 4 to a 2024 2500HD, towing is effortless, no pushing on the car. When we were looking to upgrade the car, the Land Cruiser still needed suspension upgrades and the cost wasn’t that much more to get the Chev. So far, best decision we’ve made.

[@StephenFogarty2023]

Spot on Well said 👍

[@lorenzkurysromer]

Like any 4wd - any properly set up american ute can be bloody capable offroad. I have a 2016 RAM 2500 with the 6.7 cummins. Coil spring all around, front and rear diff locks, solid front and rear axles etc. Can get anything you want in terms of upgrades. Send it.

[@JollyGiant19]

Just so wide though

[@hi9580]

@@JollyGiant19 never an issue for unimog

[@troymarshall3621]

I just came out of an entirely done-up 79 with chassis extension and bought myself a Zr2. I'd never go back to a 79. I also own a 300, and I love that, but for touring with a 21 ft van, ZR2 can’t go wrong, haha, and I can in the 11s when driving without the van on, so someone had a heavy foot, and they not that cheap to buy now 140 plus anyway I think everyone has got to get over themselves I’m die hard Crusier guy n said I’d never buy a yank tank now I’d never repurchase a Toyota for touring hardcore 4x4 well nothing beats the Lc 105 😂

[@MaximumMT]

The auto market is so different in Australia than the states mostly because of the of options and dealer networks available. The options for interior, drive train, and suspension vary so much just from the dealership that its really hard to compare the vehicles you have there to ones in the states. The states were built by these auto manufactures and the workers that use these trucks. I think the biggest difference is the after market support and what is available for these vehicles. There is so much more that you can do to these trucks in the states as far as modification, comfort and being purpose built for what you want or need. Towing capacity and licensing are also completely different. I live in rural Montana and see these big 4wd trucks and what they are used in the hardest conditions for. The Fords you will see in the absolute hardest conditions like logging and a lot of off road areas. Fords are a very hard working trucks and will get you in and out of some of the hardest places you have ever seen. They are more expensive to maintain for parts and time in maintenance, but seem to hold up better in extreme conditions. The Ram trucks I see are mostly in rural areas, used for towing, farm and ranch life. Lots of dirt roads, fields and moving heavy loads over mountains. Chevrolet I see used more in the trades. Moving loads over paved roads, going on long runs. When comfort and quality of life are more of a consideration, its hard to beat a chevy. The engine options that we have available in the 1500 series trucks varies so much that they can be purpose built for your needs. Ford has turbo four cylinder and six cylinder options available, naturally aspirated v6 and v8 options, and even some crazy high horse power super charged versions. Dodge and Chevrolet both have diesel options in there line up as well as some crazy high horse power versions.

[@HardstylePete]

A lot of the reasons for the vast differences in American trucks vs the rest of the world is the system of regulations and taxation that make these large vehicles very profitable and avoid a lot of the costly regulations. Australia has a similar setup with just smaller pick-ups as they are just cheaper to build and own.

[@haydenmellott6488]

Im an American and own one of these trucks and in regards to your off-roading experience in wide open boggy areas and steep hills is where i use my low range especially when carrying equipment i would never use it on trails too heavy too long and too wide however muddy areas on a farm and steep dirt trails up hills with a load these beasts are perfect

[@gregjacques3159]

Apparently the Ram 3500 is cheaper to buy in Australia than the Ram 2500 because it's rated (registered) as a Light Truck which is in the commercial category and therefore doesn't attract the luxury tax. I'd have a 3500 Ram in a hart beat, because you don't have to be so concerned with payload limits when setting it up for touring Oz. Such as: 2 Occupants Bull bar Winch Spot Lights Aftermarket Fuel Filter/Water Seperator Tray Canopy Roof Rack Roof Top Tent Bedding Solar panel Batteries DC DC Charger Battery Shunt Inverter Wiring Fridge Fridge Drop Slide Gas or Induction Cooker Camp Lights Camp Chairs Camp Table CB Radio Lift Kit Larger Tyre's Spare Tyre's Max Tracks Recovery Gear Tools Mechanical Spares Storage Systems Shower System Toilet Cloths Food Water Fuel

[@yetibremsstrahlung9018]

The heavy waight seems like it would be not that great in the sand

[@barrythompson8813]

So just buy an NB2 Chevy. Same weight specs.

[@phalanx3803]

problem is when you go in to the truck category you need log books and have to follow driving times limits.

[@gregjacques3159]

@phalanx3803 You're not required to keep log books for a light ridged licence. You do for some heavy ridged vehicles at the top end of the weight class. You must carry and complete a National Driver Work Diary if you drive: a vehicle or vehicle combination weighing more than 12 tonnes or a bus fitted to carry more than 12 adults including the driver; and outside of Western Australia and the Northern Territory.

[@phalanx3803]

@@gregjacques3159 since when? our neighbor has LR for cattle transport he has to do log books. the only exemption I've ever seen on the books is for use farmer we don't have to do them as long as we don't go more then 100km from our farm.

[@ryanwilliams4960]

I've got a Chev 1500 and it's my do it all rig. It works good on and off road but if I was doing any serious bush exploring it is too big for most trails. I can't afford multiple dedicated rigs so I got this to do most thing good enough. Love the content mates.

[@brycepoetker7080]

One thing that needs too be pointed out is the interior technology/ comfort differences in the chevy trucks is the overall package. The 2500 is a z71 which is the entry level offroad package and is naturally more basic as compared to the 1500 which is the zr1 which is the top tier offroad package with all of the goodies tec, and comforts. Just thought I'd put this out there.

[@johnfitzgerald5158]

Shawno says, dont take it off road. Haha, The Explore Life already did Cape York Tele Track in the big 3, including Gun Shot.

[@scottythompson5387]

I’m Aussie with an older F250(7.3). I wouldn’t swap it for a brand new Toyota. And parts are available anywhere in the country thanks to our small community

[@troysanchez776]

They have enough ramp over clearance for getting around farm tracks. As a farmer the stock suspension is fine and we haven't modified them beyond tires. The extended family currently have licensed a 1998 Ford f150 4.6 manual, 2004 Ram 2500 Cummins and a 2019 Ram 1500 pentastar. We live on the Georgia/South Carolina border. We've bought several Toyota 4runners and xj Cherokees for true offroading.

[@HardstylePete]

I think it's a difference in the types of tracks. When he says off-roading he's referring to tracks that Jeeps would drive. Rather than just a muddy field.

[@gogmorgoaway]

I'll definitely agree that these trucks are build more for pounding pavement. Most of us only get the 4x4 for dragging trailers through the snow, and even then most of us would get to where we need to go in 2wd with a little bit of planning. But they are still very capable. Locking diffs, skid plates, winches, rock sliders, are all factory options. You see them dragging big fifth-wheel RV's way off the beaten track and up into the mountains all the time.

[@christopherharris6005]

Awesome video as always Shauno and the rest of the 4WD 24/7 Crew.

[@TimPhelps-f7b]

Just watched this episode from Alberta Canada and thought I would weigh in! I work in the mines here in southern BC and all we use in the mines are Ford Super-duty. These have been found to be the most reliable and usable in a high altitude mountain environment and spend most their time in 4x4, often in mud that can be close to 2 feet deep!

[@buddzilla187]

I have an F150. I don't use it much but i just got an opus4 and the bed has gotten use. It allows me to do more than i ever would. But, i like making the most out of the least. I like how the Aussies do it.

[@mikestone7551]

Long time subscriber and I think your content is top notch. You bit off a huge test with the American trucks in so many different configurations. I applaud you for that. I love to see how you all do over landing. American trucks are made to tow toys to the location. The absolute size of them and length of the Crew Cabs make them nearly impossible to offroad. Don’t get sucked into all the technology and comfort features for the use of over land chores. One gem I think would work better for towing in your market would be the Chevy 1500 Duramax. Smaller diesel but still has big power and 13k pound towing. Keep up the great content !

[@chipchallenges]

I recently purchased a RAM 1500 Limited over the ZR2. It was a tough decision but my wife loved the RAM and uses it for both country and city driving. Very comfortable and practical

[@mattlowe9913]

Really enjoyed the perspective. In USA, all of these full-sized trucks have what would be considered fully boxed frames. Only C-Channel frames left in the US market are the last gen Toyota Tacoma.

[@michaeldye4318]

They will amaze you off road within the limits of their angle clearance limitations. Lift kits are popular and make dramatic improvements to the off-road performance, as do tire choices.

[@nateb8507]

Coming from an American tow truck driver, you are absolutely correct that these trucks aren't made for true off roading. They are too long, too wide, and way too heavy. I often have to pull them out of people's yards because they sink like a stone on soft ground.😂

[@boganindustries]

I'll watch anything with Tommy Barnes in your videos. Top bloke and always been full of A1 advice. Sydney 4x4 were always happy to chat about issues.

[@bn8535]

Great review and I think I've learned that I'd rather just have a $70k ranger/hilux/dmax and have $60k of trips

[@stotty117]

And also not see half the co try because thay are shit in tight spots lol my mate spent 25 grand after buying on a hilux to follow a gq with a lift kit and Tyers lol and its broken more then out wheeling lol he is now puting my old gq diffs in it because the stock drive line is utter trash his words not mine lol

[@weekendworkethic6177]

My ram 1500 was less then 70k

[@barrythompson8813]

@GabeRonalds-o2y Fair call 🙂 And 'tyers'...

[@rocketgg3169]

But that doesn't work for many towing requirements

[@matthewporteous6139]

If you’re not towing a big van it would be fine.

[@georgejulien3286]

It’s fascinating listening to you talk about towing shortcomings on these trucks when Australian laws wouldn’t even let you tease their towing capabilities.

[@yetibremsstrahlung9018]

They dont even put a real load on them at all

[@georgejulien3286]

@@yetibremsstrahlung9018 it’s also hilarious listening to them say they aren’t proven on washboard roads, as if they don’t do tens of thousands of miles annually on logging and mining roads in more extreme conditions in North America.

[@autobootpiloot]

@@georgejulien3286 i haven't seen it personally, but from what i can see on the internet the austalian outback is way way harder on vehicles than extreme conditions in North America. And when mining company's in North America really need some hardy vehicles they use 70 series land cruisers, because the us trucks don't last. And yes, 70 series are actually being sold in the US for offroad use only.

[@georgejulien3286]

@@autobootpiloot I have a feeling you’re not familiar with what I’m talking about. Maybe you’re an east coast guy, but out west in BC and Alberta trucks spend more time on washboard than on any paved surface. Also I’d much rather be in a 2500 driving 1000 kms in -50 than a 70 series. We have full on highways out here that are just gravel.

[@christiannubz4213]

​@autobootpiloot as someone who works on power lines where are only access roads are dirt washboard roads. I've only ever seen ford's and some chevys, most of the ford's are pulling trailers with a few tons of steel on them and even skidsteers for transmission towers. Never had a problem with them even when the roads are in terrible condition since they're only dozed once and after hundreds maybe thousands of vehicles and equipment drive on them in wet conditions rutting them up and even in deep snow they perform fantastic.

[@frumsmcnoodles323]

I think this is the first comparison I've seen where someone used the same tires on each vehicle. Gotta love the comparisons where one vehicle has chunky tires and one is on highway tires.

[@seanmartin2382]

Over here we usually throw a 6" lift and 35"+ tires on our 1500 trucks and it resolves most of the breakover angle issues...but I would never take anything that expensive rock crawling...we have a cj7 for that

[@Sunderlanding_AUS]

hardest part with that is we have laws preventing those kind of lifts. we are limited 50mm of lift and 50mm larger tyres generally (especially on vehicles with esc). otherwise the vehicle can and will be defected and pulled off the road with hefty fines and demerit points to follow. we do have ways around it through engineering and secondary manufacturing but these are generally very expensive and therefore prohibitive for the average bloke here in aus. our modification laws are extremely restrictive and the offroad community has been calling for reform for years but generally it falls on deaf ears and becomes even more restrictive 😅

[@masonkaye5]

​@Sunderlanding_AUS some trims of 1500s in the us come with 33 or 35in tires, so that's not really a problem. A f150 tremor comes with 33in tires and 2in of lift over a normal f150. There is also the raptor with 37s and trx with 35s which I imagine don't fit on any trails over there.

[@Sunderlanding_AUS]

@@masonkaye5 yeah we get the ranger raptor (100k ish)and the trx (200k+ probably more havent even bothered looking tbh) here but as for the other trims we dont get the option for almost any of them. they have only just released the first ranger tremor edition. the nissan navara and patrol both have a company doing a 2nd stage manufacture for lift and tyres but then due to laws you cannot change anything thereafter. so still limited to the 2 inches in lift and tyres. we simply dont see the range you guys get. even from toyota with the tacoma getting all the different trim levels with different suspensions etc. we see none of that on our hilux range... basically its a mentality here from the manufacturers that you get what you get and you dont get upset 🤣😂😅

[@putrol4.2]

In Australia no one would touch a cj or any jeep for that matter they are so unreliable here

[@hi9580]

@@putrol4.2 those are for crawling over rocks, not long distance endurance where reliability matters

[@rogerclift2705]

Did Shauno just say “we have some of the toughest roads in this country”? Asking for a friend!🤣

[@hi9580]

Yes, problem?

[@josepharthur2338]

@@hi9580clearly he meant to say we have some of the toughest roads in the world

[@mohvanwah]

Yep 😂

[@rogerclift2705]

@@hi9580 well yes! “Australia has some of the toughest roads in Australia “? No S**T Sherlock!🤣

[@GabrielPahls]

The zr2 has off-road suspension and the driving modes make a massive difference in how it handles. Here in Kansas we use these trucks to feed cattle and haul them around. Constantly bouncing through cow trails and over washed out roads. We’ve always ran Chevrolet. The duramax is an animal once it has a good tune and a straight pipe exhaust.

[@Jedisith122395]

As a North American compare Apples to Apples please. The ZR2 is a more off-road focused product by chev not really designed as a tow rig. The other models by chev and GM tow far nicer with a stiffer suspension set up from factory.

[@carbonfiber492]

They kinda are though the zr2 trim level is the same cost here as the others shown We don’t have 40000 different trim levels like you guys get the check gets the ltz premium and the zr2 The ford gets xls and lariat and the ram has the express, big horn, Laramie, Laramie sports, limited and trx

[@Jedisith122395]

@@carbonfiber492 the trx would be a more comparable model overall however it’s also not. Trx is “rams” most off-road focused half ton they make, you don’t get the raptor in Australia? As that would also be more comparable. Lower trim levels or the other trim level you listed for chev it’s a higher tow capacity overall and payload.

[@carbonfiber492]

@@Jedisith122395 the trx is 50k more than these over here While we get the raptor it isn’t through official channels like the f150s shown here. Isn’t the tremor a closer trim level to the zr2 anyway

[@Jedisith122395]

@@carbonfiber492 under technicality the tremor is a closer trim level, but apples to apple unfortunately would be comparing their most “off road ready” designed trucks. Trx vs Raptor vs AT4/ZR2, otherwise you’d need to compare the Tremor vs Rebel(whatever the new version is called, not a dodge guy) vs a basic ZR2/AT4. ZR2 and AT4s have higher trim levels now that have more in them now too. Regardless I’m just being nit picky. I do enjoy their content, it’s interesting to see some of rules that are to me absolutely insane regarding licenses and air brakes needed on a little weights… I could go buy a 3500 and tow a fifth wheel trailer, no air brakes just electric assist, no different license between a car and a truck. Just need to have the trailer added to my license as it exceeds X weight.

[@jakehearn26]

I totally agree Jedisith. The ZR2 is definitely the odd one out in this test. It is literally set up as off-road spec from the factory so to say it's not suitable for off-road is just bizarre. The Silverado LTZ (which is the only other option here in Oz) would have been a much better option for the purpose of this comparison.

[@V8_200_Landcruiser]

They literally can go through the glass house moutains and anywhere else in Australia! I love my Toyota's but these yank tanks are amazing and we should be excited to be getting more of them in Australia!

[@Jyden_Carmody]

Nah mate those yank tanks are not doing the harder tracks of the glassy. Not with those ramp over, approach and departure angles

[@discoverlight]

Guys definitely bring more of these full size and HD Americanas! Love them and with the Aussie style is a new way to watch them other than TFL Truck.

[@btc8633]

As an American now living in Australia who has been across the red centre, up the cape, etc... "Australian Conditions" aren't uniquely bad in any way, its a total farse. We're mostly talking about poor roads, corrugations, etc. Temperatures aren't very extreme, speed limits are compareably low, hardly any mountains to climb, tow ratings are neutered, etc. The difference is, those marginal conditions can be experienced for days on end. You can drive several days across the outback over corrugations. It's an endurance problem, but Australia is in no way 'extreme' terrain.

[@MothyEmms]

As an Australian I 💯 agree I get tired of the pretentious language used in the 4wd industry here

[@btc8633]

@@MothyEmms Some of the nicest dirt roads I have ever driven have been in BFE Northern Territory... the mining and cattle industries throughout Australia require some pretty consistent road maintenance. Countless times been shocked by beautiful bitumen roads in the middle of nowhere, 6+ hours from any sort of township.

[@Land_Raver]

I've argued this point for years. Nothing really technically difficult there. You come to the US and the terrains are much more difficult. It's why we don't outfit a bunch of stuff on our offroad rigs. It looked like these guys had their eyes opened when they did the stateside tour.

[@the_jackbadger]

@btc8633 I think the 4WD 24/7 tour of the U.S. really opened some eyes to just how ridiculous some U.S. tracks are! When you multiple states that have 40” minimum tire requirement trails AND high mountain snow trails in the same state, things can get pretty gnarly😂

[@fencepostturtle6269]

I agree. But in regards to extreme temperatures, that just depends on the time of year. If you are mad enough to do it during the warmer months, you would be driving over many days with temps in excess of 45 degrees. Quite harsh for any vehicle running for that length of time.

[@angusburston9980]

Great video. Really good explanation of the differences between each U.S. truck. Cheers

[@nicksummerfield5408]

We off road our trucks here in the states but the parts network is obviously there, so if something breaks we can get the part. Once you guys start building them trucks in Australia and getting parts there’d be no difference

[@KristenRussell-ee3go]

Great video loved to know about the towing

[@shadowdarter]

good that you got some cars on your own to test. I dont want to see another DCS battery issue

[@massni94]

I have a zr2 in the US (From aus originally)- out of the half tons in your list it's definitely great offroad. Front rear lockers, plenty of torque, skids, legit offroad shocks. You have to fight low range hard with the brakes

[@mohammedmuzakkir9803]

These vehicles are still cheaper then a chopped 200/300 or y62 or do 300mm/600mm extension which people build for touring

[@electrikoptik]

Chopped 200/300 or Y62 comes with legendary durability, reliability and build quality. You can't say the same for these massive yank tanks. I would not trust my life with an American pickup in the outback.

[@DakotaOverlander]

@@electrikoptik and yet there has been plenty of instances where 4wd24/7 had had to call for professional help in getting their stranded 4x4 out of the bush and other times having to jury rig critical parts of the suspension to even make it to a place to make a call sooo regardless of what you just mentioned about reliability and durability and build quality you can and still have a breakdown Now the Ranger a pickup commonly seen in 4WD24/7 is an American vehicle and has shown that it can endure the harsh experiences of the Outback

[@Butho_04]

@@DakotaOverlander The ranger is NOT “an American pickup.” Ford is an American company, but the Ranger is a global truck designed and tested primarily for Australia. If a vehicle can survive Australia, it will pretty much survive anywhere else. How do I know? I literally live less than 30minutes from the place it was designed… oh, and I work 5minutes drive from it.

[@DakotaOverlander]

@@Butho_04 YES it is an American vehicle You get it from Ford right??? That is an a American motor company believe it or not there are American cars that are only built for EU and Australia that we Americans can’t get here in America But YES we can get The Ford ranger here in the USA and it was born here in the USA first showed up in the 1980s along done the Bronco 2 so Yes it is in Fact An American pick up Do your research on its history before you try to correct me

[@Mi-ck]

@@DakotaOverlander By your logic the Holden Commodore is an American car. GM owned Holden so it’s American right? The ranger not an American truck. It’s designed by Australians for Australia. We never got the piece of shit you call that ranger from the 80s. The only thing in common is the name. Another american thinking the world revolves around them.

[@AltitudeStockdogs]

Old Barnsey getting into his work, top notch mate

[@williamfrancis234]

I have viewed so many overland 4x4 adventures. You're the best of the best. Thank you for your awesome videos.

[@4WD247]

Cheers mate! Thanks for the support 🔥

[@jerrysadventures4913]

The 2500s are mid range trucks in America. The Ram 3500 is also constructed to harness that extra power. The Ram 2500 allows towing for up to 19,990 pounds when properly equipped, but the Ram 3500 uses a high-output engine that allows drivers to tow up to 37,090 pounds when properly equipped.

[@edwardpeters4700]

It's fascinating watching aussies gush over what are everyday trucks here in North America. Road rules in Australia won't let you blokes anywhere near the actual limits of the 2500's. You'll all be happy to know the Chevrolet HD's have fixed the interior appointments. The big NA 2500's are capable in low range, but they need a small lift and 37's to ameliorate the breakover angle. That said, if I'm offroad, I'd still rather hop in my 80 series. We have a lot of tight bush in BC where I live, and the big girls are a tight squeeze in a lot of places.

[@hi9580]

Road train license

[@holdenwright668]

I appreciate that all the 3/4 tons are on the same tires.

[@DannyO0917]

As an American with a Ram TRX, I would agree that the 1500s in stock trim aren't going to be that impressive off-road. That said, each of the brands do have very capable versions like the Ford tremor and Ford Raptor or the Ram Rebel and the Ram TRX or the Chevy ZR2. Great video, new subscriber!

[@gregpenhaligon7859]

These Ute's are great off road. Keeps the trees further back off the track so I don't scratch the 200 series.

[@raymonds7492]

HD trucks are basically a keystone species.

[@nissansilvia]

Aussie F250 Superduty owner, Go fine off road do have to pick your line/speed with the ramp over (good sliders/Protection), but haven't found a track I haven't been able to do and generally extremely stable doing tracks. Bit unfair comparing the 2020 F250 with the other 2024's as currently F250 is still the leader for power and torque. Also the VDC Converted is the best conversion, powermax has most issues and wild setups

[@sickdevs]

Interesting to see these reviewed, they are luxurious and look really comfortable. Be interesting to see you review the Mitsubishi and Izuzu trucks that also have huge towing capacities as an alternative, not as comfortable I'm sure but the 4x4 trucks would be much more capable off road...

[@lespaulplayer1234512]

The ZR2 silverado is great offroad and comes factory with a front and rear locker, along with dssv suspension.

[@davidthurman2267]

A regular cab f250 is a weapon. The 7.3 diesel are legends and the new stuff just ain’t the same.

[@sam2sari]

The 7.3 and the ram 12 valve are both amazing old engines , the problem is they both are getting pretty old now and require some expensive rebuilding.

[@dansexitstrategy5042]

It’s not just the towing. It’s the ability to have utility and luxury. It’s nice enough to ride in every day, many will carry 6 people, and you can make runs to the dump or hardware store without having another vehicle. Plus the fuel mileage in the newer trucks is still reasonable. On top of all of that in the 1 tons you usually have around 15 tons of towing capacity so you never have to wonder if you’re towing too heavy or are gonna be struggling on hills. I’ve seen people doing 85 mph up hill with a 35 foot 5th wheel.

[@patrickflaherty3253]

Love the American trucks, big trucks for a big country ❤️🇦🇺👍

[@derekheuring2984]

Just to clarify a couple of points: yes, the Ram Cummins diesel has a problem with the heater grid nut corroding and falling off but only after about 100,000 miles giving lots of time to replace it. Further, replacing the stock heater grid with an aftermarket unit like Banks produces only takes about an hour and is easy for the do-it-yourselfer. The Ford Powerstroke CP4 fuel pump disaster prevention kit is a huge pain in the a$$ to install and absolutely stretches the abilities of a do-it-yourselfer to the maximum and will take you 10 to 11 hours to complete. Believe me, I know from personal experience. Having said all that and I know this is more of a trailering test than an offroad test I love My 2022 Power Wagon for doing both. I tow a smaller 20 foot "Couples" Geo Pro off-grid trailer with an unloaded weight of 4200 lbs and a cargo carrying capacity of 1262 lbs so even loaded to the max it's well under the PW's max towing limit. When I get to my destination I unhook the trailer and then off to the backwoods in the world's most capable full size off-road vehicle. Ram for the win!

[@That-Guy-79]

Its currently 1230am. Im at work in Canada and Im enjoying watching a review on vehicles I see everyday. Im getting paid fat stacks to sit around doing next to nothing. Good thing I have a sweet data plan on my phone. 👍

[@jeff3785]

I didn't even know data plans were still a thing...

[@yetibremsstrahlung9018]

​@@jeff3785called unlimited

[@waris3732]

Can you hook me up with a job like that?😄 No seriously...

[@pablochacon40]

I have a 2015 f150 with the 3.5 ecoboost with over 100,000 miles on the truck and I work with plenty of people that have both the 3.5 2.7 and the 5.0 f150 with plenty of miles on all of them . We have a problem with salt on the road in the winter time and the aluminum body on the f150 last a lot longer than the one from the ram and Chevy .

[@StephenFogarty2023]

The Chev 2500 HD shown in this video, is a pre 2024 MY vehicle. Current model has an all new dash with huge multi function display etc.

[@kylejohnson193]

A lot of these trucks are at or over 100k US Dollars as well. Pricing the normal people out of the market. Brutal prices.

[@hughmorton4986]

My 2019 2500 chev stock suspension with air bags. Goes good in sand. Taken through dunes. It amazes me how good it goes.

[@yermoffroad]

I havent even watched to the end, im an American chevy guy. I own a silverado and wheeled a colorard zr2 on 37s pretty hard, theyre not made for offroading, they're on road rigs, my colorado always has sterring and alignment issues. Also zr2 model loweres the towing cap

[@sloth_e]

I think you were on a mate of mines property in one of the shots I just saw. You're in the right region for sure. But one shot looked like a road of his, that splits one of his paddocks. No gate on in and not fenced as it's just a scrub patch not being used.

[@oldmanjenkinsdontlieuknowi1937]

Also I can speak for all the brands. Throw a big lift and tires on any of them and they will go good through tough stuff. I wish I could post pictures of where I’ve taken these trucks

[@oldmanjenkinsdontlieuknowi1937]

Ford f250 and Chevy 2500 10 speed are the same transmission and are known to go out because of the bushing for the primary drive drum. They make an improved bushing that doesn’t loosen and block flow of fluid other than that they are great transmissions. But if your going to buy a Cummins get one older than 2017 because you can get them with an indestructible 6 speed manual

[@oldmanjenkinsdontlieuknowi1937]

I’m in America and been around these trucks a lot. I drive a ram 1500 with a hemi myself. I’ve had 19000 pounds behind it on the hitch and drove 3 hours straight at 85 miles an hour on big mud tires. The hemis are awesome motors

[@timaustin110]

You forgot on the Ram.The flex plate cracks Where it bolts to the crank.

[@bluebludded]

Be nice to have new for a few years,but Too many gizmos to go wrong in years to come will cost to much to maintain.

[@KocaineNWaffles]

I'm not far in yet but the zr2 can't tow much because that's not what it was built for the zr2 is Chevy's top of the line off road package. You can get the max tow package on a 1500 that would allow you to tow up to 11,000 lbs I believe.

[@carltongray3302]

13,400 Lbs but that’s insane to tow with a 1/2 ton

[@weshoover4406]

surprised you didnt have a Tundra in the mix

[@StephenFogarty2023]

Tundra has never been officially sold by Toyota in Australia. But Finally happening as of early 2025

[@mikezog1030]

You'd be wanting to test it in Australia in the heat of summer to see if the cooling systems would pass muster.

[@jordanmanalo7878]

Gets just as hot / hotter in the States mate. They're fine

[@mikezog1030]

@@jordanmanalo7878 I'm no sure that there's many places hotter. And I am from Africa.

[@Davecooks87]

@@mikezog1030Florida is Hot AF

[@iancooper2213]

But the real test would be up in the Kimberley crossing those rivers early in the season, better take a Toyota or two just in case! I would suspect finding spares to chopper in might be problematic.

[@OscarMoreno321]

Out of all these “tested” trucks and being in America, I’d go with the Dodge Ram 2500 6.7L Cummins ALWAYS. It’s by far the BEST truck out there and the MOST capable 4x4 Heavy Duty truck with the best engine. 4WD 24/7 should see what American Expedition Vehicles does with this rig and their Prospector model. Simply put, there is no better truck that can be outfitted the way AEV does it. Check them out! 🤙🏼

[@Halucination08]

In America, love your videos and take on things, plus your Outback wilderness is wild! Love to see it

[@BoldRam]

Fantastic evaluation team you boys put together. Great episode 👌👌🙏🙏

[@DakotaOverlander]

lol I said this a long time ago when you guys were testing the smaller pickups like the ranger and the Hilux I did mention saying if you wanted towing was to go into hd pick ups like Chevy and Ford 3/4 ton series As a Chevy 2500 HD owner I paid $35,000 for mine used at 18k miles on the clock it doesn’t surprise me all the legality behind the $200k for all the things that needs to be done to them prior soo my answer would be gally no way hahaha 😂 I will stick to my 2005 that I own and not the bank Thanks for all your episodes from my favorite YT channel have a great day from North Dakota United States 🇺🇸

[@TwoCrabsAdventures]

Love the video fellas, really interested in more of the US content. I just wish you had of put like against like. I understand Chev didn't give you the vehicle's which sucks, but if it was purely tow based why did you go with the ZR2 1500, you should have got a LTZ, BTW the new 2500 Chev has the same as the 1500 interior. I've got the 1500 ZR2 its the best of both worlds, towing and offroad, had a 79 modified at the same cost as standard ZR2. ZR2 smokes the 79 both offroad and towing. Durability will be tested over time I guess. I'm at 22k in central Qld and towing 3 tonne on and offroad, no issues as yet except for the camera concern which is a recall.

[@mastersKaaP]

I think the two key components that makes these trucks not great for off roading are their size and their weight (disregarding the cost and difficulty of the breakages that come with extreme offroading). I wouldn't advise taking any of these on very soft sand or mud, as they would bury themselves in seconds. Check out how many of these Matt (Matt's offroad recovery) has to pull out from Sand Hollow as evidence of that. I also wouldn't want to be the guy trying to maneuver one of these in a tight driveway or mountain pass. I think the 4x4 on these are mostly meant for some extra traction on dirt roads or bad weather conditions and the low range is meant for steep climbs (or descents) under load. Sure you can kit them out with a big lift and massive tires and, along with the power they make, they'll make for a very capable off-road weapon, but they will still be handicapped by their size and weight and if you're only after offroad performance there are much better and more affordable options available.

[@sam2sari]

Very true comment, it’s hard to have that one vehicle that’ll do it all. My 2 door wrangler is amazingly capable offroad but horrible payload and not comfortable long distance, my 2500 can do 90% of the offroad (just not as fun) and handle the highway comfortably with tremendous payload.

[@stretcht7]

I bought the Ram 1500 quad cab 3 years ago and is perfect for my needs for 91k drive away. It's pretty good value in my book also I'm getting better fuel economy than that out of mine

[@TheTripleDubya]

As a base vehicle the Chevy 2500 is a good thing, if you want stronger, higher at a cheaper price, you buy the other two 2500 or 3500 trucks but the base price is higher. Why oh why they put 20 inch rims on these things is beyond me. My 2500 Chev has a 5.5t GVM and a 12,474kg GCM. And I have to be honest, the RAM looks better with a Trail Ready bar on it. As a basic tow vehicle I’m very happy with the big Chevy.

[@titaniumgear690]

Would love to see you run a Power Wagon or equivalent on 35's, on your tracks and offer the specific limitations you find... Likely it would shred your IFS utes except for width constraints. The 3/4 ton's are built (designed) for 100K mile plus durability in commercial use (off road construction) and if you fix them, they'll go for a long, long time beyond that. The Aussies will figure it out and enjoy the outcome...