3:42 Rear

[rames14]

Well, thanks to all of you that commented on the new Dodge. Since there weren't many specs released when I ordered it, I didn't realize the difference in the differential. From what I can gather, Dodge has a 4.10, 3.73 and 3.42. Based on the tables, the SRW is paired to the 3.42, while the DRW is paired to the 3.73 or 4.10. Most people I know have either the 3.73 or 4.10. Anyone have experience with a 3.42? At almost 17k capacity, I shouldn't have any problem, but curious about pick up with the Monty back there. It will be interesting to see fuel economy with the DEF.

[racerjoe]

Are you getting a diesel? If so, that might be the only gear offered. The torque specs on that motor is probably 700-800 ft pds. it should tow a stick house

[kdeiss]

Just received the Trailer Life Guide to Towing good article on rear end ratios and worth reading I would go with 373 or 410 this will up you tow cap by alot and not effect your fuel mileage by alot.

I am sure the Dodge Boys will be along with their recomendations

[H. John Kohl]

I have the 4:10 by choice. I get about 8.5 to 9 towing but can pull a 5% grade at 60mph with no problem just less MPG. I went for the combined gross (truck and trailer weight) of 28K.

[rames14]

Unfortunately, with the 3500 diesel, SRW, the only option is the 3.42. It's surprising that not one of the SRW models with diesel offer the 3.73 or 4.10. I find that strange. And I don't want the DRW because of my usage and where we'll be living. The SRW can tow an additional 11,000 lbs.

[racerjoe]

The new ford diesel only comes with 3:55 gears and is more than powerful, I think you will be fine, the diesel has tons of torque and that is what you need for towing.

[rames14]

Racerjoe -
This is my third diesel, but the first time I've seen 11,000 lbs difference between the SRW and DRW for towing capacity. It appears as if the difference is solely the rear diff gearing. Even with the 3.42, it has more capacity than my '08 Silverado Dura/Allison. Since we will be living in the mountains, torque is a consideration.

[1retired06]

My 2011 DRW came only with the 3.73. The Ford web page for the 2013s reflect 3.31 for the SRW and 3.73 for the DRW diesels. I would think that 3.42 would work just fine.

[Montana Sky]

My 2011 Ram 3500 crew longbed SRW 4x4 had the 3.73 rear end. My new 2012 Dually has the 3.73 rear end as well as the old truck did fine towing the coach. I averaged 11.5/12.5 mpg towing with the old truck. Have not been able to test the new one yet.

[rames14]

Steve Riegel pointed out that torque has increased from 650 to 850 ft lbs. I'm feeling better.

[PackerFan]

I have a 2009 Dodge, 3500, SRW with the 3.73 rear end and it does very well towing the Montana. I previously had a 1999 Dodge 2500 with the 4.10 rear end and that truck seemed to have more low end torgue and power with that rear end. It also got better fuel milage then my 2009 does. Of coarse the newer engine is bigger and has alot more torgue than the previous one did so that makes up for the gear ratio change.

Your new Cummins engine does have even more torgue and power then my 2009 does and that should make up the difference for you with the 3.42 rear end. Would be interesting to hear your fuel milage reports. One thing I always say about MPG is "I bought a diesel pickup for the power and hauling capability and NOT for the Fuel Milage"!