2014 Ram Chassis Cab outworks the competition with best-in-class towing,
gross combination weight rating (GCWR) and best-in-class total cost of ownership
3500 GCWR of up to 30,000 pounds and max trailer weight of 22,750 pounds
4500 GCWR of up to 32,500 pounds and max trailer weight of 24,650 pounds
5500 GCWR of up to 37,500 pounds and max trailer weight of 29,600 pounds
Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs now available with gasoline or diesel
powertrains
All-new 6.4-liter V-8 powers Ram’s hardest-working trucks with estimated 367
(410 under 10,000-lb. GVWR) horsepower (267 kW) at 4,600 rpm and 429 lb.-ft. of
torque (582 N•m) at 4,000 rpm, featuring variable-valve timing (VVT) and Fuel
Saver cylinder deactivation
Ram 3500 Chassis Cab available with three different engine packages
- Two gas-powered options plus manual and automatic transmission-equipped
diesel powertrains offer customers a wide range of choices to meet their needs
Legendary diesel power with six-speed automatic and manual transmissions
- 6.7-liter Cummins available with high-output option producing 325 horsepower
(242 kW) at 3,000 rpm and 750 lb.-ft. of torque (559 N•m) at 1,600 rpm
- Aisin AS69RC six-speed automatic and exclusive manual six-speed
transmissions handle powerful diesel output
New exclusive gas-engine, left- or right-side power take-off (PTO)
capability with Aisin AS66RC transmission
Exclusive Fuel Saver on, cylinder deactivation system operation during PTO
mode on 6.4-liter V-8 improves efficiency
5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 delivers 383 horsepower (286 kW) and 400 lb.-ft. of
torque (542 N•m), and features variable-valve timing (VVT) for greater
efficiency and performance (Ram 3500 Chassis Cab)
Best-in-class dual alternator systems up to 440 amps
Exclusive dual-inlet Ram Active Air in diesel models adjusts induction
according to driving conditions for optimal performance and efficiency
Best-in-class 15,000-mile oil change intervals on Cummins diesel improving
the total cost of ownership
New three-link front suspension on Ram 3500 Chassis Cab improves capability
and handling
Next-generation selective catalytic reduction (SCR) and diesel exhaust fluid
(DEF) system aid fuel efficiency
New Ram 3500 Chassis Cab single-rear-wheel offering
Only manufacturer to feature standard electronic stability control (ESC) on
all models
Frame includes high-strength 50,000 psi steel, eight-cross-member
construction, C-channel rear rails to ensure continued unsurpassed noise,
vibration and harshness (NVH), ride and handling characteristics
Largest brake size providing best-in-class brake life and stopping power
Largest standard fuel tank in class, maximizing up-time and dual fuel tank
options totaling 74 gallons
Innovative features combined with excellence in engineering make upfitting
easy and less expensive
Powernet technology enables expansion of feature content by adding bandwidth
to the truck’s electrical architecture
Best-in-class powertrain warranty – five years/100,000 miles
Next-generation Uconnect Access combines a lineup of smart media centers
with a powerful wireless platform that includes Wi-Fi hotspot capability
Configurable vehicle information center with 7-inch multiview display
available on SLT and standard on Laramie models
Best-in-class vehicle system interface module (VSIM)
Passive Entry, Keyless Enter ’n Go
June 28, 2013 , Auburn Hills, Mich.
- Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cab trucks are the pinnacle of
capability. Engineered and designed for extreme daily work, the Ram Chassis Cabs
are products of a demanding environment and direct customer input. For 2014, Ram
Chassis Cabs will pack a bigger punch with the introduction of a new 6.4-liter
gas engine. Upfits will benefit from a left- or right-side PTO capability and a
five minute shut-down timer feature.
Ram’s halo truck line focuses on
best-in-class capability and best-in-class total cost of ownership, a leading
purchase reason among business owners. Ram Chassis Cab trucks offer the latest
infotainment technology and exclusive upfit solutions, giving Ram Chassis Cab a
competitive advantage. The Chassis Cab line goes further to offer a
best-in-class powertrain warranty of five years/100,000 miles.
The 2014
Chassis Cab best-in-class capability ratings:
- Best-in-class Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)
- Best-in-class towing
- Best-in-class front Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) on 4500 and 5500
- Best-in-class rear frame steel strength of 50,000 psi
Features
include a number of industry exclusives:
- Vehicle system interface module (VSIM) is capable of communicating between
aftermarket modules and various Chassis Cab control modules
- Electronic stability control (ESC) on all models
- Best-in-class, self-leveling fuel storage capability of 74 gallons
(52-gallon tank plus 22-gallon tank)
- Best-in-class 15,000-mile oil change intervals on Cummins diesel
- Largest -in-class brakes
- Best-in-class dual alternator systems up to 440 amps
- Exclusive back-up camera for upfitter positioning
- Best-in-class powertrain warranty, five years / 100,000 miles
Ram Chassis Cab engineers design trucks for upfits and develop
unique features to ease installation of multiple systems and bodies without
interference or difficult relocation of components, including:
- Industry standard frame lengths 60-inch, 84-inch, 108-inch and 120-inch
- No components or lines above the rear frame rails
- Through-the-frame plumbing and electrical
- DEF refill port is conveniently located at the rear of the cab on the
driver’s side to ensure easy access at pump stations
ENGINEERINGFor 2014, Ram engineers have
enhanced the 3500 Chassis Cab model with a new three-link front suspension that
provides greater load-carrying capability and best-in-class towing.
Ram
4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs have received upgrades as well. Both models are now
rated at 7,000 pounds of front Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) on 6.4-liter gas
engine-equipped models and 7,250 pounds GAWR on 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel
models.
Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings (GVWR) for Ram 3500 models equipped
with single rear wheels have been raised, now ranging from 10,500 to 12,000
pounds. A 10,000-lb. GVWR model that falls below certain truck-weight
restrictions is also available.
To handle the best-in-class towing and
unsurpassed GVWR capability of the Ram Chassis Cab, robust front suspension
springs handle heavier loads while maintaining front ride height and improving
overall roll stiffness. Greater roll stiffness, also known as body roll, is an
important characteristic in taller vehicles, especially trucks with heavy
payloads. An advanced five-link front suspension on Class 4 and 5 Ram 4500 and
5500 Chassis Cab trucks ensures excellent ride and handling for a higher GVWR
and for use with heavy front loads, including snow plows. The Hotchkiss rear
leaf spring suspension not only provides a minimum of zero degrees rake angle at
max load, it also maintains objectives for ride and handling.
With upfits
in mind, the 2014 Ram Chassis Cab trucks feature frames built with high-strength
50 KSI steel, including eight separate cross-member construction. Designing the
frames for upfits creates a competitive advantage, improves durability and
reduces warranty costs from unapproved modifications. Ram Chassis Cab trucks
have no components or lines above the rear frame rails. For example, the diesel
exhaust fluid tank (DEF) is located under the cab and out of the upfit zones.
The feature reduces the need for modification and relocation that is sometimes
required in competitive trucks. One piece, C-channel rear frame rails, and
through-the-frame plumbing and electrical provide a flat plane for ease of
mounting application bodies and accessories.
Steering
The drag link
is positioned over the track bar to reduce roll oversteer and to improve
tracking at highway speeds. Also, the drag link is attached directly to the
knuckle, offering improved efficiency for driver input. The caster and track are
engineered for more wheel-aligning torque, which improves return-to-center at
the steering wheel. A ball joint alignment feature and sealing method improves
alignment and service for lower total cost of ownership. This design results in
enhanced and precise on-center feel, despite the vehicles impressive towing and
payload capacities.
Body
The 2014 Ram Chassis Cab comes equipped with
engine, transmission and body mounts for class-leading noise, vibration and
harshness (NVH) characteristics.
Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cab
commercial trucks are available with an engineering-approved, upfitter-friendly
solution for customers who require back panel removal on regular cab trucks.
Because the instructions were created and approved by Ram Commercial truck
engineers, the cutaway design retains the structural integrity of the truck.
Electrical
As the Ram Chassis Cab continues to offer more featured
content, it created the need for a technology that allows more information to be
electronically communicated within the truck. The Powernet system allows both
high- and low-speed data networks to be equipped with as many as 40 individual
modules, all designed to improve vehicle performance and enhance the comfort and
safety of driver and passengers.
A majority of the commercial truck
customers need to tie into the electrical system, and certain fleet customers
require access to vehicle information. A best-in-class VSIM is capable of
communicating between aftermarket modules and various Chassis Cab control
modules. The class-exclusive module acts as a secure gateway to the vehicle’s
electrical systems and data bus architecture to enable safe, secure
plug-and-play connectivity for up-fitter use.
An optional dual 220-amp
alternator system (440 amps total) on the diesel-equipped Ram Chassis Cab
provides best-in-class electrical capability for the higher electrical loads
required in select upfits such as emergency lighting and electric clutch pumps.
The new 6.4-liter gas powertrain gets a dual-alternator option, pairing a
220-amp unit with a 160-amp, for a total of 380 amps.
Total cost of
ownership and best-in-class powertrain warranty - five years/100,000
miles
Operating costs are of great consideration for owner’s who use their
trucks for work. The 2014 Ram Chassis Cab claims class-leading features in:
- Extended maintenance cycle (15,000-mile oil change, fuel filter life)
- Brake life with advanced engine exhaust brake
- Upfit integration
The 2014 Ram Chassis Cab is backed with a
best-in-class, five-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty. The
powertrain-limited warranty covers the cost of all parts and labor needed to
repair a covered powertrain component – engine, transmission and drive system.
Coverage also includes free towing to the nearest Ram Truck dealer, if
necessary. The warranty is transferable allowing customers who sell their truck
during the warranty period to pass the coverage on to the new owner. The
standard three-year/36,000-mile Basic Limited Warranty provides bumper-to-bumper
coverage for the Ram Chassis Cab, from the body to the electrical
system.
POWERTRAINThe 2014 Ram Chassis Cab 3500,
4500 and 5500 come standard with the new 6.4-HEMI® V-8 gasoline engine — the
first implementation of a gasoline engine for the Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cab
models. The Chassis Cab version of the 6.4 HEMI is similar by design but is
engineered for a different duty cycle, when compared to the version offered in
the Ram 2500 and 3500. The all-new powerplant provides a worthy gas-powered
option to the segment’s overall standard-bearer – the 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo
Diesel.
Compelling numbers tell the story of the new 16-valve engine:
estimated up to 410 horsepower (302 kW) at 5,600 rpm (4,660 rpm for Aisin in
4500/5500) and a peak torque rating of 429 lb.-ft. (582 N•m) at 4,000 rpm. Ram’s
new 6.4-liter V-8 gasoline engine is the first of its kind for Class 4 and 5 Ram
4500 and 5500 Chassis Cab trucks.
The new, big gasoline engine offers a
number of features important to the hard, working, heavy- and medium-duty
segments, including the dual-alternator option and a programmable idle shut-down
timer. Additionally, the engine features Fuel Saver cylinder deactivation
operation under normal driving and during PTO mode to improve
efficiency.
The new 6.4-liter HEMI is available with the 66RFE six-speed
automatic transmission or the AS66RC six-speed automatic transmission with
segment exclusive, gasoline engine left- or right-side PTO
capability.
The 3500 Chassis Cab also is available with the legendary
5.7-liter HEMI V-8 gasoline engine. The engine produces 383 horsepower at 5,600
rpm and generates peak torque of 400 lb.-ft. at 3,950 rpm. Mated to the 66RFE
six-speed automatic transmission, the HEMI features enhanced fuel efficiency and
power output, thanks to the incorporation of variable-valve timing (VVT) and a
compression ratio of 10.5:1. Refinements and other applied technologies provide
the latest-generation HEMI with performance and fuel economy improvements to
rival multi-valve V-8 offerings.
Unlike the competition, Ram offers two
engine variants based on the 6.7-liter Cummins for diesel supremacy in the
segment.
The first version features 320 horsepower at 2,800 rpm and 650
lb.-ft. of torque at 1,500 rpm. The engine is paired with Ram’s
segment-exclusive six-speed manual transmission, which features a
wear-compensating clutch for consistent performance and a dual-trunion shift
tower to accommodate a compact shift pattern.
A second high-output
diesel delivers 325 horsepower at 3,000 rpm and generates best-in-class torque
of 750 lb.-ft. at 1,600 rpm. The engine is paired with an Aisin six-speed
automatic transmission (AS69RC).
The Aisin AS69RC transmission features
robust components and impressive shift performance, transmission efficiency and
drivability when compared to the competition. The transmission is designed for
high engine ratings and enables a left- and right-side PTO option, as well as
allowing for a split shaft PTO configuration (diesel). Fire pumpers, dump beds,
aerial buckets, cranes and onboard compressor/generators are typical PTO based
upfits.
New for 2014, Ram 3500 Chassis Cab trucks are equipped with a
front-axle disconnect for greater fuel efficiency.
All Ram Chassis Cab
diesels benefit from an advanced cooling system. A high-efficiency fan, dual
radiators, dual transmission coolers and charge air cooler provide impressive
heat-rejection capacity to align with best-in-class GCWR. Lower operating
temperatures deliver unsurpassed performance, durability and lower operating
costs.
Best-in-class GCWRs also led to the industry-exclusive Ram Active
Air intake system, activated by monitoring capabilities in the engine
controller. When the exclusive intake system senses extreme heat, it draws
cooler air from the front of the vehicle – a function that also engages at high
altitudes for superior throttle response in low-oxygen environments. When
conditions are wet from snow, ice or water fording, the system pulls air from an
under- hood inlet, clear from snow packing and water ingestion.
A new,
dual fuel tank option combines 52-gallon and 22-gallon tanks for 74 gallons of
extended, integrated onboard fuel range for lower operating costs. Additionally,
a mid-ship 22-gallon tank is now an option for gasoline- and diesel-powered
Chassis Cabs.
Emissions performance:
The Cummins
power plants utilize a large exhaust-gas recirculation cooler, which complements
the selective catalytic reduction (SCR) and accommodates a best-in-class
oil-change interval of 15,000 miles. Oil life is longer by reducing soot
production and reducing fuel dilution of the oil.
When needed, the diesel
exhaust fluid (DEF) is injected into the exhaust to reduce NOx (Nitrogen Oxides)
emissions coming out of the tail pipe. Unlike the competition, the Ram Chassis
Cab maintains full power when fluid is low. The state-of-the art DEF system
applied on the Ram Chassis Cab features an electric heater in the DEF tank to
ensure the fluid is available in a liquid state regardless of climate. The DEF
refill port is conveniently located at the rear of the cab on the driver’s side
of the vehicle, and clear of upfit zones, a configuration that ensures easy
access at fuel stations when compared to the competition.
Combined with
an improvement in fuel economy, due in part to the engines’ high-pressure
common-rail fuel system, SCR provides a net reduction in Ram Chassis Cab
operating costs.
The SCR-equipped Cummins engines also operate cleaner by
lowering greenhouse-gas emissions and better managing soot production than Lean
NOx Trap (LNT) technology.
DESIGN:
Exterior
Ram
Chassis Cab trucks are available in Tradesman, SLT and Laramie trim
levels.
Three grille designs are available on the 2014 Ram Chassis Cabs,
and a premium headlamp features bi-functional halogen projectors and LEDs for
park/turn and side markers. The LED light housings are functional hardware with
appeal and durability over incandescent bulbs.
Ram 3500 Chassis Cab
single rear wheel models get three new 18-inch wheels: steel (Tradesman),
chrome-clad steel (standard on SLT, optional on Tradesman) and polished aluminum
(standard on Laramie, optional on Tradesman and SLT).
An exclusive,
backup camera is available and delivered with factory wiring and multipurpose
mount for easy installation by the upfitter. The camera provides a view of the
rear with high definition and dynamic imaging in the available 5.0-inch and
8.4-inch radio display or 1.7 x 3-inch display in the rearview
mirror.
Exterior door and fender badges are located in a portrait style
format providing usable real estate on the door for a commercial customer’s
logos and graphics.
Ram Chassis Cab offers 12 different colors, including
Black, Black Gold Pearl, Blue Streak Pearl, Bright Silver Metallic Bright White,
Deep Cherry Red Crystal Pearl, Flame Red, Granite Crystal Metallic, Maximum
Steel Metallic, Prairie Pearl, True Blue Pearl and Western Brown Pearl.
Ram Chassis Cab models are also available in an additional 18 specialty
paint options, including Midnight Blue, Case Construction Power Tan, Case IH
Red, New Holland Construction Yellow, New Holland Agriculture Blue and Robin Egg
Blue.
Interior:
In four-door models, rear-seat occupants enjoy the same
quality, fit and finish as the driver. With points of contact a priority,
premium, durable materials are on all four doors.
The 2014 Ram Chassis
Cab features the next generation 8.4-inch Uconnect system. The center stack
includes matching materials found throughout the interior. To complement the
range of Chassis Cab models, the interior design team created individualized
themes with different colors and materials.
The HVAC controls feature
simple function meeting the highest Human Machine Interface (HMI) standards. The
HVAC system includes a redundant architecture allowing the operator to use
either the 8.4-inch touchscreen or manual controls to alter the truck’s
environment. Below the HVAC arrangement is a switch bank with easy-to-use
controls for a number of features depending on vehicle models and options. The
top row is for functional features and includes exhaust brake, tow/haul and
electronic stability control (ESC). Five instrument-panel mounted auxiliary
switches are standard on all Chassis Cab models. The fifth switch becomes a PTO
on/off switch when equipped. The bottom row comes standard as an auxiliary
switch bank for all five spots with a power take-off (PTO) option when equipped.
Contiguous to the switch bank is a prominently placed adjustable integrated
trailer brake control allowing the driver to add or reduce trailer brake
function on the fly. The console center stack includes one 115-volt and two
12-volt outlets on either side with an optional powered USB port on the driver’s
side.
All Ram Chassis Cab trucks continue to use a column shifter for the
automatic transmission. Electronic Range Select (ERS) is located on the column.
Diesel models offer an exclusive manual six-speed transmission, the only manual
transmission offering in the segment. On all models, the transfer case retains
full capability with a rotary e-shift to control “4WD Auto,” “4WD Lock,” “4WD
Low,” “2WD” and “Neutral”.
The 3.5-inch vehicle information center screen
is a standard feature. The thin-film transistor (TFT), 7-inch multiview display
is available on SLT and Laramie models. The 7-inch screen features fully
customizable function and configurability giving the owner a variety of systems
to monitor from transmission temperature to navigation.
Chassis Cab
trucks with bucket seats offer additional storage capacity in the center
console. Six-passenger capability is available with the 40-20-40 bench-seat
configuration.
The center consoles for both the bucket and 40-20-40
bench-seat configurations keep efficient storage in mind. The bucket seat
console uses the extra space as additional storage. The bench seat design
includes three cup holders built into the console lid that features a washable
rubber bellow lining allowing storage for most cup sizes as well as other
personal items. Folding back the center console and center front seat base
reveals a large storage bin that houses an optional CD player. Both versions of
the console feature two tiers of storage and are available with a multimedia
port with USB, SD card and auxiliary inputs in the upper tier. Additionally, a
2.5-amp USB power port and 12-volt outlet are available to meet device-charging
needs.
UCONNECT:
Building upon base radio capability,
two Uconnect systems are offered to provide Ram customers with a range of
features and connectivity options. The Uconnect 8.4A and 8.4AN provide Ram truck
owners with a built-in wireless connection allowing vehicle occupants to
automatically connect to a variety of services. Users can remotely lock and
unlock doors or start their vehicles from any distance via the web or a
smartphone application. The Uconnect system includes a 911 button on the
rearview mirror for a direct connection to emergency services. An ASSIST button
also is integrated into the rearview mirror to summon help directly from a
roadside assistance provider or connect with Chrysler Group’s Vehicle Customer
Care Center. Wi-Fi hotspot capability enabled by Uconnect Access provides
in-cabin wireless Internet connectivity via laptop, tablet or smartphone,
whether on the move or at the worksite.
Applications are updatable over
the air and are downloaded directly to the Uconnect 8.4A and 8.4AN systems,
keeping features current.
Uconnect Voice Command allows drivers to
control their mobile phone, music and navigation system while staying focused on
driving. The phone book within a compatible phone is automatically downloaded,
synchronizing as many as 1,000 phone book entries, which can then be selected by
simply saying a contact name. The feature also allows drivers to switch radio
modes, tune to AM/FM/ HD and SiriusXM Radio stations and request real-time
information (such as fuel prices) from the available SiriusXM Travel Link using
natural voice commands.
Uconnect supports Bluetooth-equipped cell phones
with message access profile (MAP) advanced text messaging. This industry-first
voice recognition uses the embedded connectivity to access cloud-based
voice-recognition and enable advanced text messaging, which converts the spoken
word into verbatim text messages. Communication is limited only by the user’s
vocabulary.
Filling the gauge cluster in front of the driver is an
available 7-inch, color, premium multiview display, featuring a customizable
function that enables Ram customers to personalize information inside the
instrument cluster. Ram’s information display is designed to visually
communicate information, using graphics and text, quickly and easily. The
multiview display offers drivers a wide range of customization options, from a
basic digital speed read out to specific vehicle status information. Operation
of the display is clearly communicated to users with easy-to-understand icons
and instructions.
SAFETY AND SECURITY:
Ram Chassis Cab
trucks offer more than 45 active and passive safety and security features,
including standard front air bags with Enhanced Accident Response System (EARS),
knee bolsters, seat-belt pretensioners, BeltAlert and ParkView rear backup
camera system.
A segment exclusive selective tire pressure display is
standard for both single- and dual-rear-wheel 3500 models.
The 2014 Ram
Chassis Cab models include standard electronic stability control (ESC), a
segment exclusive on Class 3, 4 and 5 Chassis Cabs over 10,000-lb. GVWR. ESC
hosts a number of technologies including all-speed traction control,
trailer-sway control, Hill-start Assist (HAS) and anti-lock brake system
(ABS).
The 2014 Ram Chassis Cab also offers Keyless Enter ’n Go
technology, which allows the doors to be unlocked and the truck to be started
without having to touch the key fob. An available remote start feature allows a
driver to start their truck from up to 300 feet away. Door controls, illuminated
entry, engine immobilizer and panic alert are standard features with the Keyless
Enter ’n Go system. Auto rain-sensing wipers and SmartBeam headlamps also are
offered, adding to a long list of
content.
MANUFACTURING:
Start of production of the
2014 Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cab is scheduled for the first quarter of
2014 at the Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant in Coahuila, Mexico.
