Picked up our new (to us) tow vehicle

[bigdaddy]

After much research, looking, haggling and driving… I bought a 2006 Dodge Ram 1500 Quad cab. The truck has the multi-displacement 5.7 Hemi. I never realized how hard it is to locate a pickup with seating for 6 and balls. Most trucks have center consoles and can only seat 5, I never thought I would buy a Dodge but I have to tell you I am impressed!

[rthrbelsewhere]

The first day i road in one...back during goose season 03 that was the day i was impressed and convinced too. Riding through the corn fields and the way that it road so smooth through the bumps, i had to get one. But I went with the diesel instead....long story, but it paid off. Congrats on finding that one, good score! Many of those 06's came with the center console in the front...i didn't like that part either when I shopped for my '06. Found one with the middle seat and love it ever since. Enjoy!

[ScottnKimmer]

The '07 in our picture is a full 6 passenger as well. Only used it twice in almost 3 years but the fold down arm rest center console compartment makes it totally convertible. The ride is amazing for a truck and it does everything we ask it to do. Hauls our toyhauler without issue.

Enjoy your new truck.

[jdudd]

Guys - I have an 05 Ram 1500 2WD with the Hemi and 3.92 gears (which I love). We're considering a fifth wheel that weighs ~6500 dry. The only thing I've towed is a bass boat, so I really don't know what to expect. Any feedback on that weight and how painful it will be to tow? The link below indicates that it has a 9250 capacity, but that's not to say I want to get anywhere near that.
http://www.new-cars.com/2005/dodge/d...er-towing.html

It's just going to be me, the wife and our two little girls in and around Texas, so hopefully not too many hills.

Thanks,
Jeremy

[rthrbelsewhere]

Hey Jeremy,
I think you'll be fine since you won't be climbing anything too steep. Around here, with some of our 7% grades, it might cause you some grief, but as long as you have a trani cooler, synthetics in the gear housings, and some patience, everything should work out. I'm pretty sure that you'll see a significant drop in fuel mileage too, probably somewhere around 10-12mpg, but if you're okay with these things, it certainly will be less expensive then trading up to a diesel. The 3.92's will certainly help get things rolling, I think the only thing i would consider (and that is if the bed shows some sagging going on) is to maybe put some airbags to help carry the weight and relieve some of the strain on the u-joints. The electric brakes on the 5th wheel will certainly help slow things down too. It sounds like you have the right combination on the truck, being 2 wheel drive, lower gears, and a decent sized engine. Good luck and hope you find it enjoyable.

Joe