So, three years ago this week, I upgraded from a RAM 1500 Hemi to a 2500 Cummins due to my towing needs. The Hemi would pull my toyhauler, but fuel mileage would drop to 5-6 mpg when hooked up. With a 20 gallon fuel tank it would require filling up every hundred miles or so when pulling to camping trips. And even with a weight distribution hitch, the ride was pretty rotten.
In early 2013 I bought a leftover 2012 RAM 2500 which does not require DPF, but does go into regen fairly often. The other issue with the process is that the oil changes are more frequent - maybe every 2500 to 3000 miles - at $100 a pop. I also change the fuel filter annually at about $50 each.
Recently, even though I have a new air filter, the SERVICE AIR FILTER warning light was coming on whenever I accelerated hard, and would then reset when I turn key off, then stay off until the next hard acceleration. Repeat.
I've been sitting on a few recall notices, but this morning decided to take it in to dealership to get recalls done, and find out why it is throwing error codes. I am just out of warranty, so we started with a $120 diagnostic which will be credited to any necessary repairs. The service manager told me, although we are not sure yet, that most of the Cummins RAMs require what they call a 67,000 mile service (not an official number, just rule of thumb, and I am at 61,000), and that could be kicking off the warning light. This is at least $1,200.
The 2500 has done everything I've asked, pulling my TT, tractor on heavy trailers, etc., but the ongoing maintenance costs are really making me think of moving back to the HEMI and simply dealing with the towing limitations.
I am between a rock and a hard place. I don't need the tow capacity that often, maybe 3 or 4 times a year, but when I need it, I really need it. Backing down to the 1/2 ton also limits how far we are willing to travel on camping trips with the family. I really wish there was a 1/2 ton gasser with just a bit more capability. Even if I downsized my camper, there are still times I need to haul a trailer and the tractor, and I just don't feel as safe in a 1/2 ton.
Not really looking here for answers, more just ranting for release of frustrations, but would take suggestions if there is a solution.
In early 2013 I bought a leftover 2012 RAM 2500 which does not require DPF, but does go into regen fairly often. The other issue with the process is that the oil changes are more frequent - maybe every 2500 to 3000 miles - at $100 a pop. I also change the fuel filter annually at about $50 each.
Recently, even though I have a new air filter, the SERVICE AIR FILTER warning light was coming on whenever I accelerated hard, and would then reset when I turn key off, then stay off until the next hard acceleration. Repeat.
I've been sitting on a few recall notices, but this morning decided to take it in to dealership to get recalls done, and find out why it is throwing error codes. I am just out of warranty, so we started with a $120 diagnostic which will be credited to any necessary repairs. The service manager told me, although we are not sure yet, that most of the Cummins RAMs require what they call a 67,000 mile service (not an official number, just rule of thumb, and I am at 61,000), and that could be kicking off the warning light. This is at least $1,200.
The 2500 has done everything I've asked, pulling my TT, tractor on heavy trailers, etc., but the ongoing maintenance costs are really making me think of moving back to the HEMI and simply dealing with the towing limitations.
I am between a rock and a hard place. I don't need the tow capacity that often, maybe 3 or 4 times a year, but when I need it, I really need it. Backing down to the 1/2 ton also limits how far we are willing to travel on camping trips with the family. I really wish there was a 1/2 ton gasser with just a bit more capability. Even if I downsized my camper, there are still times I need to haul a trailer and the tractor, and I just don't feel as safe in a 1/2 ton.
Not really looking here for answers, more just ranting for release of frustrations, but would take suggestions if there is a solution.
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