TFLtruck presents the Ike Gauntlet HD extreme towing test – Dually Edition, featuring the updated 2014 Ram 3500 HD 4×4 with the well-known 6.7L Cummins straight six. This is the more luxurious Laramie model with much chrome and a two-tone color scheme. However, you can still go higher with the Laramie Longhorn or Limited models.
This high-output version of the 6.7L turbo-diesel still produces 385 hp @ 2,800 rpm and maximum 850 lb-ft of torque @ 1,700 rpm. The Aisin 6-speed automatic transmission returns for duty as well.
The Heavy Duty version of the Ike Gauntlet is setup to test HD pickup trucks near their payload and towing capacities. This configuration of the Ram 3500 HD is rated at a maximum of 5,560 lbs of payload. And the specification sheet states that it can handle a maximum towing load of 28,890 lbs with a gooseneck or 5th-wheel.
Although, the Ram has such a high tow rating, we wanted to compare it to the Silverado 3500 HD test as close as possible. This is why we used the same two-trailer setup and total load of 19,250 pounds.
Our testing procedure remains the same. We let the transmission and exhaust brake (when available) do as much braking as possible to maintain a safe speed on the downhill. We are usually moving at 60 mph on the downhill. For the uphill, we pause on the shoulder before we get on the interstate, then accelerate at wide-open-throttle, and start the timer at the same road marker. We stop the timer as the traffic lights right before we reach the tunnel.
How will the Ram handle towing the extra heavy duty load up and four trailer axles up a mountain at over 11,000 feet above sea level? It has more torque, but less horsepower than the Chevy. Can it match or beat the time?
| 2014 Ram HD | |||
| Model | 3500 Crew Cab 4×4 | ||
| As Tested $ | $66,340 | ||
| Engine | 6.7-liter I6 | ||
| Transmission | 6-speed Aisin | ||
| Power (hp / lb-ft) | 385 / 850 | ||
| Payload Rating (lbs) | 5,560 | ||
| Tow Rating (lbs) | 28,890 (4.10 axle) | ||
| Test Load (trailer + cargo + ppl) | 19,250 lbs | ||
| Suspension Sag | 0 in | ||
| Ambient Temp F | 65F | ||
| Relative Humidity | Low (25%) | ||
| Barometric Pressure (at top) | 19.76 inHg | ||
| Calculated Power Loss | 33.3 % | ||
| Down: Brake Temp (Front / Rear / Trailer) F | |||
| Down: Transmission Temp | normal | ||
| Up: Time | 9:38.0 | ||
| Up: MPG | 3.3 | ||
| Up: Interior dB | 70 | ||
| Up: Transmission Temp | normal | ||
Here is the full video of the Ram 3500 Ike Gauntlet HD – Dually Edition.
Andre Smirnov is a life-long automotive enthusiast, writer, reporter, and software engineer. He has been a contributor at TFL since 2011. When not working or spending time with the family – you can find him tinkering in the garage or simply ‘going for a drive’.
