They should've use the Automatic Exhaust brake mode, not Full mode. I bet they would've only had 1 or 2 break applications if they did. The automatic mode works a lot better IMO on my 2015 3500 I tap the brakes and it holds that speed no matter what or let off the gas and it keeps that speed, I was doing that downhill (8% grade) towing around 13-14,000lb
The 2015 Ford F-350 did this same test last year 9:44.88 compared to Dodges new "improved" 2016 9:58.66 ……That being said…..I like both of these Trucks…….for different reasons…..
I think they should adjust the values for the scoring when it comes to heavy duty trucks. I don't think any heavy duty truck in going to make it up this hill in about 8 minutes nor do I think the trucks mpg is going to be close to 6 mpg.
I've done the IKE gauntlet in my 16 RAM 3500 pulling my 42 ft toy hauler. Y'all need to go up 285 going to Bailey, that incline before you get to Conifer is more of a test! I hated coming back down but thank God for the Cummins engine brake.
TFL, PLEASE READ BELOW: It would be nice to see these trucks tested with their respective maximum weight rating. I understand it wouldn't work for the Gold hitch thing but it almost seems more important to rate them based on what their max is. Reason being is that number is always publicized and if I'm buying a truck, I'm making my decision based on the max rating, not how well I feel each truck will do with an equal (and in some cases much lower) trailer weight. The gold hitch award could be modified to accommodate each trucks max rating by scoring based on your existing criteria but using a score modifier that's based on the actual weight towed vs a baseline like 20,000 lbs. For every 1,000 lbs over the baseline, there would be a 5% score increase. For example: 2016 Ram 3500 score: 51 weight towed: 30,000 lbs score modifier: x1.5 (10,000lbs over baseline = 50% score bonus) New score: 76.5 2016 Chevy 3500 score: 49 weight towed: 21,000 score modifier: x1.05 (1,000 lbs over baseline = 5% score bonus) New score: 51.5 This would put more emphasis on how much the truck can tow (which is the whole point) but also grade them fairly as a truck towing 30,000 lbs might have to use the brakes more meaning a lower score than one towing 20,000 lbs but the modifier would adjust for the heavier load by increasing the score. I hope the TFL crew see this as I like your channel and I think this method of testing would benefit everyone (more accurate score, happier viewers because we get to see max loads)
+Onyx Knight IMO i think this test is harder than the SAE standard test in which they run about 1/10 of the elevation, with air temps over 100 in which the trucks only have to manage 35 or 45 mph up the davis dam to pass. That said more weight would be interesting, but with 20k and a finishing speed below 50 adding another ~10k would probably lower that speed at the top quite a bit, all comes down to how much slower below the speed limit they are comfortable going (or legally idk)
+Marc Monson loading the trucks up with max weight is the whole point of the Ike Gauntlet, its suppose to be a torture test. Not a 10,000 lbs under max weight Sunday drive. If the ram can't handle it's max (or near to it) weight then wouldn't that be nice to know? The idea I described would allow that without interfering with the scoring of the gold hitch awards (and would actually make the scoring more accurate IMO).
I know this is old video but 7 brake app's with the diesel exhaust brake? I live in CO and I'm down Eisenhower a lot and my 2018 2500 Ram has 1 brake application. Did their same test and did it in 7:37.
The testing criterion should be modified to add the braking performance as tested. While big torque numbers are the advertisers dream, braking distance and handling under braking is equally, if not more important. It is highly likely that the brake capacity is not being improved as quickly as the tow ratings. This is a critical piece of information that is possibly lost in the arms race between Chevy, Ford, and Ram.
the performance of these trucks is incredible the largest towing capacity of anything here in australia under a non commercial license is about 7700lb or 3.5t and demands a price tag of $90,000 (australian dollars) its enough to bring a tear to the eye!
LOVE your real world truck comparisons so that the average JOE or Mark in my case can understand just what the heck do all those manufacturers number mean. Thanks guys and I am ordering your book on Amazon today.
What you should do at the end of the gauntlet test is take the number that you found for the truck and do what top gear dose. Use magnets with the trucks name on it and place it on the board with the highest score at the top of the list. It would give the viewer a better idea of how the truck did compare to other trucks.
+David Benjamin I was thinking the same thing at first, but I don't really think it matters. I think they wanted to keep it simple and have one number (8:00 minutes). The points are all relative anyway, as it only matters what they are compared to the other trucks, not compared to the perfect truck (100 points).
What a bunch of whiny crybaby's on here holy crap! Start acting like Adults and stop complaining so damn much you freaking babies! Andrea, Nathan Mr. Truck thank you for putting on these videos everyday. I look forward to them and enjoy them. I know it takes a lot of work to do these shows day in and day out. Thank you! And don't listen to all these whiny ungrateful cry babies.👊🏼
In my opinion the 21,000 is more than enough for any full size heavy duty truck to be tested and really should ever be the max by law for a normal heavy duty truck to haul. Without being made to use a semi instead for the heavier weights. I know there will be a lot of grief my way for what I just said. But a semi has one major advantage over full size heavy duty trucks. That's the size of breaks for breaking power to bring all that weight to a stop.
+Jaueg Dag That's true, too besides when the semi would use the brakes you can't compare brakes on a pick up truck to the size of brakes on the semi. Massive difference in size, and the fact there's more training for how to deal with that amount of weight to drive a semi compared to just anyone the amount of training someone to handle that amount of weight when controlling such vehicles.
You just explained why we have the *Gross Combined Vehicle Weight (GCVW).* The Ram 3500 has a GCVW of 30,000 lbs, so technically you can't tow more than 22,000 lbs with a truck like this weighing 8,000 lbs with diesel and passengers.
+ecocav0222 You need a CDL to run the new 1 tons at their max, so you have the same amount of training to even load the new trucks to their claim max ratings.
You guys ran the 2015 Test in the End of march on the 2015 Ram. Im assuming that temps are Cooler in January than march? Point Being that's most likely where the 11 seconds faster time came from rather than the measly 35 lb's of torque. Either way, truck did very well
I will say I wish Ram would have Cummins program the exhaust brake the way our isb 6.7 Cummins powered school busses are, which is as soon as your foot is off the accelerator it immediately is activated. Why does Ram make you hit the brakes to get the exhaust brakes to do anything in tow haul mode, why isn't Ram using the same exhaust brake strategy as a medium duty truck?
Nice work boys! Thanks for another great test. I will say it seemed like the further the vid went on the more Nathan seemed annoyed with Andre...not sure why...
the price of trucks are getting in to the class 8 truck range (18 wheelers). A glider truck (no epa crap) is 120k and will last 20 years and has 2x the power.
Don't know a single soul that basis there decision of which truck to buy based on the speed in which it will climb a hill loaded. The question rather is how many times it can climb said hill without failure....pretty sure Cummins speaks for itself in that regard. Better engineered overall...imo.
I can respect your opinion but when they are basic their reviews on this page on speed and braking my points valid. Of course reliability is a major point but you also need to be able to get up the hills or you become a safety issue to yourself and everyone else on the road.
Also the 6.7 powerstroke has shown itself to be just as reliable as the cummins motor. Only real issues were with the very first versions turbo. Which has since been changed to a more reliable setup.
+BUILT DIESEL MAFIA 1 interesting statement considering the short time period for which the 6.7 ford has been on the roads. I run a diesel repair facility and my technicians would beg to differ with your opinion based on our experience to date, especially now more so since a lot of the early 6.7's are now past 100k. While your entitled to your opinion, I will say comparing the ford diesel while adequate for what it was designed to do, its a bit of a stretch to compare it to the cummins.
Great review! Odd request: Can you take the Cherokee Trailhawk up the Ike's Gauntlet? Jeep is claiming 4500LB towing capacity and since I own a 3300LB boat I want to know for sure if it lives up to Jeep's claim.
Now that the HD pickup trucks have reached the towing capacity limit of what is safe, sane, and practical for non commercial use can we now start pressing manufacturers on reliability, fuel economy, safety, brakes,transmissions, etc It's our desire for HP TQ pose off numbers for message board battles that keep the truck companies boosting the ratings needlessly so blowhards can brag about it. Super Duty with 500hp / 1000hp? Come on we gotta quit being dazzled by big numbers and distracted from the last decade of diesel motor fiascos. We're worse off if the big numbers come at the expense operational reliability and maintenance problems. I can't relate to someone that would be excited to plop down their cash for a first year newly designed, really released, aluminum cased diesel. What would anyone do that after the recent ford motors. TFL does the best real world casual testing for truck buyers that I've seen. Thanks you guys for doing it.
+The Fast Lane Truck I was taught that you always tie a vehicle down by anything that is unsprung, axles, wheels etc. When you load the suspension, if it isn't fully loaded to the overload bump stops, or the suspension is blocked(like they're shipped from the manufacture) the vehicle can bounce against the chains, either undoing them, breaking them or causing damage to the vehicle itself.
+The Fast Lane Truck There's nothing wrong with how it's tied down. As long as you pull the truck down enough and load the suspension enough, there shouldn't be a problem.
+fishgill0890 I'd still rather just keep it simple and tie down at the axles. Then you don't have to worry about it bouncing around. There's nothing wrong with using the two hooks to keep it from rolling, but I'd still want the axles tied down.
I think for the larger trucks that tow more you should tweak your criteria/scoring system. I know they only compete against each other but the score could be misleading especially considering they are hauling much more weight for any given MPG or period of time. I think that whatever truck hauls the most weight in the least amount of time should have a higher score than a Tacoma hauling up a jet ski.
Can you guys also talk about the temps of the vehicle? I like to know the temps and see how efficient the engine and cooling systems are to know how hard it is actually working.
This rating system doesn't seem all that great. Also, wouldn't it be a more fair test of the individual truck's capability to pull the maximum weight it's been rated at, for each of the trucks, so that people would be able to know how the truck is actually doing according to what the manufacturer has stated it's able to do? For example, if a truck is rated at 21, 000 lbs and does phenomenally at 21, 000, and another truck is rated at 30, 000 lbs and is difficult to control, the 21, 000 lb truck would receive a higher rating because it does what it was meant to do better.
An 11 second difference in time between this year and last years model, is well within your margin for error. For all intents and purposes, the two times were identical.
They aren't using 900 ft lbs when pulling the grade like that. They are much higher in the RPM's then where the torque peak is. If you want to look at how well an engine will pull uptop, look at peak HP. HP is calculated using RPM and torque, so a higher HP at a certain RPM will mean higher torque at that RPM. 385hp at 2800rpms vs (for instance the 6.7 powerstroke) is 440hp at 2800rpms. That means the powerstroke is making about 14% more torque at that RPM.
Only the Aisin transmission ($3500 option) has 900 lbs of torque. With the auto trans that comes stock the torque is 800 lbs of torque. The manual only has 700 lbs of torque. I am talking about the 2016 model.
My question: why is the torque limited in 1st and 2nd gear only achieving 900 in 3rd? I don't buy that it's because you would be spinning tires, not with that kind of weight. I'm thinking it's because the torque multiplier of 1st and 2nd is too much for the axle/transmission/driveshaft abs it needs to be limited...
Good video guys, but I'll reiterate what some others have already said on this test...21,000lbs of towing is not enough for this truck. Towing 9,000lbs below this truck's max towing rating/capacity cannot be considered an extreme test of this truck's capabilities. I understand the need to keep everything consistent across the board for the Golden Hitch Awards, but I think we'd all like to see these trucks (Especially the HDs) perform the Ike Gauntlet at their max towing capacity.
+WarWolfen I totally agree! The trucks should all be pulling at their manufactured rated max. This would discourage manufactures from over rating what their trucks will pull. Whatever truck is the one that will only pull 21,000 lbs should not win the golden hitch award if another truck in the same class will pull 30,000 lbs+. However if said truck will only pull up the hill at 35 MPH than the manufactures have overrated the pulling ability.
I like the new scoring format and appreciate that you are starting to standardize the scoring for the golden hitch award going forward but allow me to add some constructive criticism based on what I'm hearing in the videos: I do know you guys had to start somewhere regarding metrics but by my count, ram 3500 earned 29/75 possible objective points. Given that it should be one of the more capable trucks in the class, I have to assume 75 is an unattainable score in the HD market. Also, basing most of your subjective votes on performance that's already scored by empirical data is not completely effective. The subjective score should be based entirely on things not captured in the three other metrics. Fit & finish, noise, looks, steering feel, ride quality, value, etc. I know some of that was covered in the responses though.
great video fast lane, when you were in tow haul mode climbing the peak were you shifting off the column or letting the truck shift automatically? i have a 2016 ram 3500 srw black out edition and love it.
can yall make a video of this truck towing max conventional weight? and how do i know how much it can tow before a weight distribution hitch is required?
Great truck, but the enormous RAM- letters on the tailgate are just insane. Here in europe you would need a midsize commercial truck to tow a load like that :)
i agree if your going to purchase a truck 40 to 70 grand that says can tow 25 to 35,000lbs we want to see it don't load it down with what a 1/2ton truck can tow my gosh even that dodge power wagon can haul 15,000lbs
Why you have the same scoring system with HDs? MPG and time should be scored different. Yes, they are also comparable in their class, but if you change the trailer, you should also change the scoring system.
Because we like to keep us straightforward and understandable. It would be almost impossible to explain our scoring system if it changed every time we changed the class of truck.
I think it's pretty stupid that trucks are so powerful these days. nobody needs a truck with 900 torque. I pull an 8,000 pound excavator everyday with a bone stock 05 Chevy with a 6.0 gas. It does just fine.
I guess I don't understand the mpg part of the scoring card. You guys always run different configurations for the trailers...which will always give you a variety of mpg's. Doesn't make sense to me. Aerodynamics make a big difference in towing.
those extra 50 torques or whatever the previous cummins was rated at wont make up for the hp deficit! Will the titan be in the gold hitch awards in one category? and IMO i think they tried to make those gauges look too hell-catty
why is the tow haul mode on??????? If the transmission is not hunting for gears there is no reason to be in tow haul mode since this will reduce fuel efficiency! Nathen even mentioned that you don't need tow haul so why do you have it on????? The engine brake can be turned on independently!!!!! The tow haul mode will keep the engine at higher RPMs and therefore REDUCE fuel milage!!!!! Do the test again without tow haul on the uphill, but DO USE the tow haul on the downhill since this will improve engine braking performance. Let's use the technology smartly !!!!!
So the Silverado, towing the same trailer with ALOT less torque, did it quicker. I'm thinking if you load this truck to the max your only going to be able to hit 30-35mph in that 60mph zone. I think these trucks are kinda overated (except the Chevy).
The maker of the transmission is pronounced Ai-shen. It's a Japanese ran company and the pronunciation of the company name gets a little lost in translation. The spelling is Aisin though and I see where it's easy to get different English pronunciations.
Ram 2000 Medium Duty 😂 Man...really making me want a Cummins. I have a 2017 Ram 2000 Medium Duty....what is that you ask?....its what a ram 1500 light duty becomes when you immediately realize you should have bought a 2500 HD and subsequently install E rated tires, heavy duty springs, bilstein shocks, integrated trailer brake controller, and a few other mods. So how is the Ram 2000 MD?....its okay, but a 2500 Cummins would be better
+Nico Talento I think at around 1750 is where you have peak Torque. I've got a 2014 Cummins 6.7 and my redline is just over 3000 RPM too, but most people never need to get that high in the RPM's, I haven't. These trucks pull like beasts even at the low RPMS's.
They should've use the Automatic Exhaust brake mode, not Full mode. I bet they would've only had 1 or 2 break applications if they did. The automatic mode works a lot better IMO on my 2015 3500 I tap the brakes and it holds that speed no matter what or let off the gas and it keeps that speed, I was doing that downhill (8% grade) towing around 13-14,000lb
The02CumminsRAM I do the same, the engine brake is awesome on these trucks.
The 2015 Ford F-350 did this same test last year 9:44.88 compared to Dodges new "improved" 2016 9:58.66 ……That being said…..I like both of these Trucks…….for different reasons…..
Proud owner of a 2016 RAM 2500 Mega Laramie. Inside and out, the best trucks on the market right now. Also, because Cummins.
I think they should adjust the values for the scoring when it comes to heavy duty trucks. I don't think any heavy duty truck in going to make it up this hill in about 8 minutes nor do I think the trucks mpg is going to be close to 6 mpg.
I sense an Andre Nathan rift. I enjoyed the review though. Please guys, keep it up. You are the best on any media for reviews.
I've done the IKE gauntlet in my 16 RAM 3500 pulling my 42 ft toy hauler. Y'all need to go up 285 going to Bailey, that incline before you get to Conifer is more of a test! I hated coming back down but thank God for the Cummins engine brake.
TFL, PLEASE READ BELOW:
It would be nice to see these trucks tested with their respective maximum weight rating. I understand it wouldn't work for the Gold hitch thing but it almost seems more important to rate them based on what their max is. Reason being is that number is always publicized and if I'm buying a truck, I'm making my decision based on the max rating, not how well I feel each truck will do with an equal (and in some cases much lower) trailer weight.
The gold hitch award could be modified to accommodate each trucks max rating by scoring based on your existing criteria but using a score modifier that's based on the actual weight towed vs a baseline like 20,000 lbs. For every 1,000 lbs over the baseline, there would be a 5% score increase. For example:
2016 Ram 3500
score: 51
weight towed: 30,000 lbs
score modifier: x1.5 (10,000lbs over baseline = 50% score bonus)
New score: 76.5
2016 Chevy 3500
score: 49
weight towed: 21,000
score modifier: x1.05 (1,000 lbs over baseline = 5% score bonus)
New score: 51.5
This would put more emphasis on how much the truck can tow (which is the whole point) but also grade them fairly as a truck towing 30,000 lbs might have to use the brakes more meaning a lower score than one towing 20,000 lbs but the modifier would adjust for the heavier load by increasing the score.
I hope the TFL crew see this as I like your channel and I think this method of testing would benefit everyone (more accurate score, happier viewers because we get to see max loads)
+Onyx Knight IMO i think this test is harder than the SAE standard test in which they run about 1/10 of the elevation, with air temps over 100 in which the trucks only have to manage 35 or 45 mph up the davis dam to pass. That said more weight would be interesting, but with 20k and a finishing speed below 50 adding another ~10k would probably lower that speed at the top quite a bit, all comes down to how much slower below the speed limit they are comfortable going (or legally idk)
+Marc Monson loading the trucks up with max weight is the whole point of the Ike Gauntlet, its suppose to be a torture test. Not a 10,000 lbs under max weight Sunday drive. If the ram can't handle it's max (or near to it) weight then wouldn't that be nice to know? The idea I described would allow that without interfering with the scoring of the gold hitch awards (and would actually make the scoring more accurate IMO).
+Onyx Knight I think if you maxed it out, it would be doing only 20-25mph at the top. Basically, get in the semi lane.
+Troy Strain you have to make sure you are sticking to the manufacturer ratings. if you go over you are a fool and do not belong on the road.
What about ford? Or just don't include them because they will win
I know this is old video but 7 brake app's with the diesel exhaust brake? I live in CO and I'm down Eisenhower a lot and my 2018 2500 Ram has 1 brake application. Did their same test and did it in 7:37.
The testing criterion should be modified to add the braking performance as tested. While big torque numbers are the advertisers dream, braking distance and handling under braking is equally, if not more important. It is highly likely that the brake capacity is not being improved as quickly as the tow ratings. This is a critical piece of information that is possibly lost in the arms race between Chevy, Ford, and Ram.
the performance of these trucks is incredible the largest towing capacity of anything here in australia under a non commercial license is about 7700lb or 3.5t and demands a price tag of $90,000 (australian dollars) its enough to bring a tear to the eye!
LOVE your real world truck comparisons so that the average JOE or Mark in my case can understand just what the heck do all those manufacturers number mean. Thanks guys and I am ordering your book on Amazon today.
What you should do at the end of the gauntlet test is take the number that you found for the truck and do what top gear dose. Use magnets with the trucks name on it and place it on the board with the highest score at the top of the list. It would give the viewer a better idea of how the truck did compare to other trucks.
I think you guys should make it 9:00 mins for heavy duties as they tend to be slower cause they are towing a lot more
+David Benjamin I was thinking the same thing at first, but I don't really think it matters. I think they wanted to keep it simple and have one number (8:00 minutes). The points are all relative anyway, as it only matters what they are compared to the other trucks, not compared to the perfect truck (100 points).
What a bunch of whiny crybaby's on here holy crap! Start acting like Adults and stop complaining so damn much you freaking babies! Andrea, Nathan Mr. Truck thank you for putting on these videos everyday. I look forward to them and enjoy them. I know it takes a lot of work to do these shows day in and day out. Thank you! And don't listen to all these whiny ungrateful cry babies.👊🏼
KEEP THE TESTS COMING!! LOVE IT
Great Videos. You guys should do this with older trucks like 80s 90s and 00s.
In my opinion the 21,000 is more than enough for any full size heavy duty truck to be tested and really should ever be the max by law for a normal heavy duty truck to haul. Without being made to use a semi instead for the heavier weights. I know there will be a lot of grief my way for what I just said. But a semi has one major advantage over full size heavy duty trucks. That's the size of breaks for breaking power to bring all that weight to a stop.
+Jaueg Dag That's true, too besides when the semi would use the brakes you can't compare brakes on a pick up truck to the size of brakes on the semi. Massive difference in size, and the fact there's more training for how to deal with that amount of weight to drive a semi compared to just anyone the amount of training someone to handle that amount of weight when controlling such vehicles.
You just jumped 5 truck classes to flame the class 3 category. Where's the logic in that? Are you even a commercial customer?
very little pickups are built to compete with semis
You just explained why we have the *Gross Combined Vehicle Weight (GCVW).* The Ram 3500 has a GCVW of 30,000 lbs, so technically you can't tow more than 22,000 lbs with a truck like this weighing 8,000 lbs with diesel and passengers.
+ecocav0222 You need a CDL to run the new 1 tons at their max, so you have the same amount of training to even load the new trucks to their claim max ratings.
You guys ran the 2015 Test in the End of march on the 2015 Ram. Im assuming that temps are Cooler in January than march? Point Being that's most likely where the 11 seconds faster time came from rather than the measly 35 lb's of torque. Either way, truck did very well
you should do a max conventional tow with the HD trucks as well
I will say I wish Ram would have Cummins program the exhaust brake the way our isb 6.7 Cummins powered school busses are, which is as soon as your foot is off the accelerator it immediately is activated. Why does Ram make you hit the brakes to get the exhaust brakes to do anything in tow haul mode, why isn't Ram using the same exhaust brake strategy as a medium duty truck?
Even though Ford may not be able to tow as much. I do like the fact that when you look up Ford trucks, you get all 3 types of towing.
Love the eye candy on the trailer. Keep it up!
Ford Chevy Ram I get a kick out of people arguing which is better it all comes down to personal taste you can't go wrong with any of them.
Nice work boys! Thanks for another great test. I will say it seemed like the further the vid went on the more Nathan seemed annoyed with Andre...not sure why...
the price of trucks are getting in to the class 8 truck range (18 wheelers). A glider truck (no epa crap) is 120k and will last 20 years and has 2x the power.
nothing new here ford last year ran it In 9:44 right? this new truck at 9:58? ouch for the ram.
Don't know a single soul that basis there decision of which truck to buy based on the speed in which it will climb a hill loaded. The question rather is how many times it can climb said hill without failure....pretty sure Cummins speaks for itself in that regard. Better engineered overall...imo.
I can respect your opinion but when they are basic their reviews on this page on speed and braking my points valid. Of course reliability is a major point but you also need to be able to get up the hills or you become a safety issue to yourself and everyone else on the road.
Also the 6.7 powerstroke has shown itself to be just as reliable as the cummins motor. Only real issues were with the very first versions turbo. Which has since been changed to a more reliable setup.
+BUILT DIESEL MAFIA 1 interesting statement considering the short time period for which the 6.7 ford has been on the roads. I run a diesel repair facility and my technicians would beg to differ with your opinion based on our experience to date, especially now more so since a lot of the early 6.7's are now past 100k. While your entitled to your opinion, I will say comparing the ford diesel while adequate for what it was designed to do, its a bit of a stretch to compare it to the cummins.
+BUILT DIESEL MAFIA 1 i dont see a 2016 f350 beating the '15 year f350 unless they get it with the 4.30 instead of 3.73
They've really upped the torque. I remember when they advertised 610 ft lbs like it was a monster around 04-05.
+Zack Zander I remember when Cummins advertised 400 ft pounds. lol!
Wasn't that with the 5.9 motor?
Dylan Thomas Yeah, The 1st gen cummins. lol They've come a long way.
+Dylan Thomas yeah it was the High Output version.
+Military Chevy They've come a long way when it comes numbers on paper, but they've lost reliability and longevity along the way.
Love that they're passing semi trucks
Great review! Odd request: Can you take the Cherokee Trailhawk up the Ike's Gauntlet? Jeep is claiming 4500LB towing capacity and since I own a 3300LB boat I want to know for sure if it lives up to Jeep's claim.
Now that the HD pickup trucks have reached the towing capacity limit of what is safe, sane, and practical for non commercial use can we now start pressing manufacturers on reliability, fuel economy, safety, brakes,transmissions, etc It's our desire for HP TQ pose off numbers for message board battles that keep the truck companies boosting the ratings needlessly so blowhards can brag about it. Super Duty with 500hp / 1000hp? Come on we gotta quit being dazzled by big numbers and distracted from the last decade of diesel motor fiascos. We're worse off if the big numbers come at the expense operational reliability and maintenance problems. I can't relate to someone that would be excited to plop down their cash for a first year newly designed, really released, aluminum cased diesel. What would anyone do that after the recent ford motors.
TFL does the best real world casual testing for truck buyers that I've seen. Thanks you guys for doing it.
The Powerwagon is improperly chained to the trailer, that's disappointing to see.
How would you tie down the Power Wagon?
+The Fast Lane Truck
I was taught that you always tie a vehicle down by anything that is unsprung, axles, wheels etc. When you load the suspension, if it isn't fully loaded to the overload bump stops, or the suspension is blocked(like they're shipped from the manufacture) the vehicle can bounce against the chains, either undoing them, breaking them or causing damage to the vehicle itself.
+The Fast Lane Truck Is it a valid answer?
Thanks
+The Fast Lane Truck There's nothing wrong with how it's tied down. As long as you pull the truck down enough and load the suspension enough, there shouldn't be a problem.
+fishgill0890 I'd still rather just keep it simple and tie down at the axles. Then you don't have to worry about it bouncing around. There's nothing wrong with using the two hooks to keep it from rolling, but I'd still want the axles tied down.
I think for the larger trucks that tow more you should tweak your criteria/scoring system. I know they only compete against each other but the score could be misleading especially considering they are hauling much more weight for any given MPG or period of time. I think that whatever truck hauls the most weight in the least amount of time should have a higher score than a Tacoma hauling up a jet ski.
Can you guys also talk about the temps of the vehicle? I like to know the temps and see how efficient the engine and cooling systems are to know how hard it is actually working.
8:50
Nathan's body language does not lie.
This rating system doesn't seem all that great. Also, wouldn't it be a more fair test of the individual truck's capability to pull the maximum weight it's been rated at, for each of the trucks, so that people would be able to know how the truck is actually doing according to what the manufacturer has stated it's able to do? For example, if a truck is rated at 21, 000 lbs and does phenomenally at 21, 000, and another truck is rated at 30, 000 lbs and is difficult to control, the 21, 000 lb truck would receive a higher rating because it does what it was meant to do better.
An 11 second difference in time between this year and last years model, is well within your margin for error. For all intents and purposes, the two times were identical.
Cool to see you going with a points system. Based on the traffic variable, could you say that the 11 seconds was negligible?
They aren't using 900 ft lbs when pulling the grade like that. They are much higher in the RPM's then where the torque peak is. If you want to look at how well an engine will pull uptop, look at peak HP. HP is calculated using RPM and torque, so a higher HP at a certain RPM will mean higher torque at that RPM. 385hp at 2800rpms vs (for instance the 6.7 powerstroke) is 440hp at 2800rpms. That means the powerstroke is making about 14% more torque at that RPM.
Only the Aisin transmission ($3500 option) has 900 lbs of torque. With the auto trans that comes stock the torque is 800 lbs of torque. The manual only has 700 lbs of torque. I am talking about the 2016 model.
My question: why is the torque limited in 1st and 2nd gear only achieving 900 in 3rd? I don't buy that it's because you would be spinning tires, not with that kind of weight. I'm thinking it's because the torque multiplier of 1st and 2nd is too much for the axle/transmission/driveshaft abs it needs to be limited...
I always thought and was taught that these motors (Diesel) had to be broken in first before you run tests like these?
Good video guys, but I'll reiterate what some others have already said on this test...21,000lbs of towing is not enough for this truck. Towing 9,000lbs below this truck's max towing rating/capacity cannot be considered an extreme test of this truck's capabilities.
I understand the need to keep everything consistent across the board for the Golden Hitch Awards, but I think we'd all like to see these trucks (Especially the HDs) perform the Ike Gauntlet at their max towing capacity.
+WarWolfen I totally agree! The trucks should all be pulling at their manufactured rated max. This would discourage manufactures from over rating what their trucks will pull. Whatever truck is the one that will only pull 21,000 lbs should not win the golden hitch award if another truck in the same class will pull 30,000 lbs+. However if said truck will only pull up the hill at 35 MPH than the manufactures have overrated the pulling ability.
Reason they did that is cuz the chevy is maxed out at towin that much for those model years.
Listen to the hum of that Cummins.... Music to my ears!!!
I like the new scoring format and appreciate that you are starting to standardize the scoring for the golden hitch award going forward but allow me to add some constructive criticism based on what I'm hearing in the videos:
I do know you guys had to start somewhere regarding metrics but by my count, ram 3500 earned 29/75 possible objective points. Given that it should be one of the more capable trucks in the class, I have to assume 75 is an unattainable score in the HD market.
Also, basing most of your subjective votes on performance that's already scored by empirical data is not completely effective. The subjective score should be based entirely on things not captured in the three other metrics. Fit & finish, noise, looks, steering feel, ride quality, value, etc. I know some of that was covered in the responses though.
Thank you for your feedback.
Seemed like it was bogging down pretty good there when y'all hit the incline.
great video fast lane, when you were in tow haul mode climbing the peak were you shifting off the column or letting the truck shift automatically? i have a 2016 ram 3500 srw black out edition and love it.
can yall make a video of this truck towing max conventional weight? and how do i know how much it can tow before a weight distribution hitch is required?
id like to see a video of these diesel trucks pulling what the v8s do as a comparison...
I"d like to see y'all do the Ram 3500 Mega Cab.
9:10 what is that wheezing noise that cuts into the audio?
Clutch fan, those things are LOUD when they lock up.
does this truck have airbags for the amount of weight it's putting. Thanks Mike
Will you guys please do the 2016 Toyota Tacoma trd off road review please.
+JackLambert180 They already did a mpg and towing review.
+Ryan Martinage No I want them to do a real review of the trd off-road version not a towing review like the one you stated.
+JackLambert180 I believe Mr Truck did a review on his channel.
+Ryan Martinage thanks I'll have to take a look at that.
+JackLambert180 All TFL does is VERY mild off roading and tow tests. They're pretty fucking useless at testing anything else.
What are the round things up by the ceiling in back above the rear window? Ac vents?
Nathan looked super annoyed every time Andre opened his mouth.
Lol!! I know. Why is Nathan so grumpy? He's the one riding shotgun!!
yup I noticed that too, too much Smirnoff can make you headachy
he talks too much it was better when he was just the guy behind the camera or the dude getting a heat reading off the brakes.
+ScoobyDigites
hahahaha yes! put him back on the brakes!
+rob armstrong
top pun.
WHERE ARE THE DB SOUND TESTS??? BRING THEM BACK!!!
The best truck in the class.
Great truck, but the enormous RAM- letters on the tailgate are just insane.
Here in europe you would need a midsize commercial truck to tow a load like that :)
I like the C10 at 0:46
can you guys do the same run with an Older Ram Cummins before DPF system?
For some reason I think the Limited trim looks better with chrome bumpers
Andre's thoughts: "We do not have truck like this in Russia".
Great video, but I still find the point system pointless, especially when TFLT failed to give the numbers that added up to 51 points.
What's the maximum amount of boost pressure generated by the turbo?
I wonder how much the mega cab version of this is.
Can you do an off road review of a suburban or Tahoe Z71?
Hey guys, could you put the ranking of the trucks at the end of the review, thanks
i agree if your going to purchase a truck 40 to 70 grand that says can tow 25 to 35,000lbs we want to see it don't load it down with what a 1/2ton truck can tow my gosh even that dodge power wagon can haul 15,000lbs
Logan Curry It was only getting 3 mpg with that load it's going up hill so it's putting twice as much stress on the engine as a regular flat road
how does the aisin compare to the other automatic transmission?
Why you have the same scoring system with HDs? MPG and time should be scored different. Yes, they are also comparable in their class, but if you change the trailer, you should also change the scoring system.
Because we like to keep us straightforward and understandable. It would be almost impossible to explain our scoring system if it changed every time we changed the class of truck.
Anyone else notice the ABS light on right next to the "P" ? That can't be good for a new truck.
75k? id like to see a comparison of the cheapest ram 3500 that can do the same thing vs this n see what exactly im getting for my money.
Hi TFL crew just out of curiosity is Ken aka Mr.Truck the only person on your crew with a CDL?
Yes, Kent is our HD expert
What is the yellow illuminated warning light to the left of the Park P?
Can you tell me what the coolant temp was when you got to the top?
$75,000 Wow! Who can afford that!!!!!!!!!!
How are trucks now worth 75 grand? wtf, few more years they will be 100.
Right fucking 75 grand hell at that rate ordinary working man can't afford one isn't they suppose 2 be a work truck
Jay Jones Like shit thats a 1500 dollar a month truck payment. That is BS
these are for the farmers who make that Monsanto money. 75k is insane for a truck lol
+Jay Jones its a limited, top of the line.... Comes with alot of bells and whistles and that surely jacks the price up ALOT
+APECK636 all the while the average wage in the U.S. for the middle class has gone down in the past few decades.
I think it's pretty stupid that trucks are so powerful these days. nobody needs a truck with 900 torque. I pull an 8,000 pound excavator everyday with a bone stock 05 Chevy with a 6.0 gas. It does just fine.
I guess I don't understand the mpg part of the scoring card. You guys always run different configurations for the trailers...which will always give you a variety of mpg's. Doesn't make sense to me. Aerodynamics make a big difference in towing.
when are you'll going to gauntlet the 2.8 duramax?
Come on take tha power wagon up 2 gold hill now since it snowed last night here in Boulder
im sold il take in deep forest green thanks metalic aswell
those extra 50 torques or whatever the previous cummins was rated at wont make up for the hp deficit! Will the titan be in the gold hitch awards in one category? and IMO i think they tried to make those gauges look too hell-catty
Ram hater here. You sure you know how trucks work? Torque is the money maker in this segment--both, for the manufacturer and the commercial customer.
+MrKeyboardCommando Women, gays, you...
there is no too much hell-friggin-yeahcat in another vehicle except it itself
+Jørgen S But the BMW doesn't have 900 LB-FT of torque.
It's alright if they want to put ram in the front but just keep the cross hair. The big ram logo in the back isn't cool at all.
why is the tow haul mode on??????? If the transmission is not hunting for gears there is no reason to be in tow haul mode since this will reduce fuel efficiency! Nathen even mentioned that you don't need tow haul so why do you have it on????? The engine brake can be turned on independently!!!!! The tow haul mode will keep the engine at higher RPMs and therefore REDUCE fuel milage!!!!!
Do the test again without tow haul on the uphill, but DO USE the tow haul on the downhill since this will improve engine braking performance. Let's use the technology smartly !!!!!
Why is there 90psi pf air in the front tires? does it have tires heavier than 10 ply?
Must be high quality tires. Higher than usual PSI rating is mostly an indicator of higher build quality.
The truck has 19.5 wheels which the tire is higher ply
Gentlemen, I am considering purchasing one of these monsters, now do I need to get a CDL license to drive this?
Not with any towing weight under 26,000 lbs here in Georgia. It may be different in your state.
i dont think yall were using the exhaust brake right. everytime i use it, kicks in immediately and is almost to quick to stop the truck
Full exhaust brake was enabled.
That's a motley crew at :01
caveat: only 1 person on this team has a commercial license. assess accordingly.
So the Silverado, towing the same trailer with ALOT less torque, did it quicker. I'm thinking if you load this truck to the max your only going to be able to hit 30-35mph in that 60mph zone. I think these trucks are kinda overated (except the Chevy).
I wonder the same thing, I watched a few quite a few of the videos and it seems like they like Dodge in my opinion
The maker of the transmission is pronounced Ai-shen. It's a Japanese ran company and the pronunciation of the company name gets a little lost in translation. The spelling is Aisin though and I see where it's easy to get different English pronunciations.
What or who is the Ike Gauntlet?
It seemed to me that the trio of reviewers can't stand each other. Just my $.02.
Ram 2000 Medium Duty 😂
Man...really making me want a Cummins. I have a 2017 Ram 2000 Medium Duty....what is that you ask?....its what a ram 1500 light duty becomes when you immediately realize you should have bought a 2500 HD and subsequently install E rated tires, heavy duty springs, bilstein shocks, integrated trailer brake controller, and a few other mods.
So how is the Ram 2000 MD?....its okay, but a 2500 Cummins would be better
still don't understand how the 2014 ran the gauntlet faster then both newer trucks?
Aw I think Andre is alright. Someone has to take the thankless role of keeping the color commentators on track. Think Curt Menefee on Fox NFL Sunday.
Any new raptor vídeo?
Omg, it's near the red line at 3,000 rpm, with 900 lb-ft of torque where does the 900 start? :)
Like 700rpm lol welcome to the diesel world
+Nico Talento I think at around 1750 is where you have peak Torque. I've got a 2014 Cummins 6.7 and my redline is just over 3000 RPM too, but most people never need to get that high in the RPM's, I haven't. These trucks pull like beasts even at the low RPMS's.
Diesel engines can reach 4000 rpm so 2500 rpm is nothing for the engine no wear at all.
Max 900 torque is at 1800 rpm in third gear at WOT.
Wow! Will it lose some torque once it reaches 3000 rpm? Nice video btw TFL. Kudos to Mr. Truck, he knows his stuff haha.Thanks. :)
Nathan looks pissed whenever the guy in the back even opens his mouth
Rams are bad ass trucks