2013 Ram 2500/3500 HD, H.O. Cummins

Redesigned Ram HD Pickups for 2013, 850 lb-ft H.O. Cummins

Published June 2013

Since Ford introduced the 6.7L Power Stroke and GM released its 397 hp Duramax, a cash strapped Chrysler has struggled to compete with its Cummins powered Ram. So how does a battered, beaten, torn company stir up the marketplace? By completely redesigning the Ram HD for 2013, sparing no expense and leaving no stone unturned. How does a high output version of the 6.7L Cummins, backed by a stronger Aisin HD transmission, sitting between a redesigned chassis sound? It's safe to say that Ram Trucks is laying down a royal flush for 2013.

The Ram 2500 and 3500 models will be offered in four different engine/transmission arrangements. The 5.7L Hemi gas engine is still available, and the 3 diesel options are as follows:

6.7L Cummins w/ G56 6 speed Manual Transmission, Ram 2500 & 3500 HD

• Peak horsepower: 350 hp @ 2,800 rpm
• Peak torque: 660 lb-ft @ 1,500 rpm

If you want the new Ram HD with a handshaker, we understand the allure of shifting your own gears. However, you'll give up between 140 and 190 lb-ft of twist since the manual trans doesn't have the input torque capacity that the mighty Cummins demands. The good news is that the G56 equipped trucks gained 60 lb-ft over the previous model year.

6.7L Cummins w/ 68RFE 6 speed Automatic Transmission, Ram 2500 & 3500 HD

• Peak horsepower: 370 hp @ 2,800 rpm
• Peak torque: 800 lb-ft @ 1,600 rpm

Tweaks to the standard 6.7L Cummins gives owners another 20 horsepower to play with, and the torque curve has reportedly been broadened.

6.7L High Output Cummins, Aisin 6 speed Automatic Transmission, Ram 3500 HD Models Only

• Peak horsepower: 385 hp @ 2,800 rpm
• Peak torque: 850 lb-ft @ 1,600 rpm

Backed by the Aisin AS69RC 6 speed automatic transmission (based on the AS68RC that has only been offered in Ram chassis cab 4500 & 5500 models). Unique features include a dual inlet active air intake system that switches between inlets to ensure the coolest air is drawn.

In addition to these three engine options, Ram has upgraded the following components to ensure longevity, reliability, fuel economy, and support their new tow/payload capacities:

• Upgraded high efficiency mechanical fan & dual radiators keep the Cummins cool under extreme loads and operating conditions
• Dual transmission coolers
• Improved efficiency intercooler (charge-air-cooler or CAC) with reported 25% better heat dissipation
• New and improved exhaust brake
• Larger EGR cooler and the introduction of the SCR system, which requires the use of urea/DEF and yields 10% better fuel economy
• New, stronger frame material; frame is fully boxed in the rear, wider in certain sections to reduce roll, and contains 8 cross members
• Front axle disconnect system for improved fuel economy, massive 11.8" rear axle
• Upgraded receiver system allows up to 1,800 lbs. tongue weight and 17,000 lbs. conventional towing


Source: RamTrucks.com