Dodge Ram 2500/3500 Heavy Duty Frame Facts
The 2003-2008 Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 feature a heavy-duty frame, the stiffest ever on a heavy-duty Ram. It uses extensively hydroformed and boxed sections tough enough to deliver a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 12,000 lbs.
When in introduced in 2003 the new Heavy Duty Ram frames were a quantum leap in the technology of truck chassis design, said Rich Schaum, Executive Vice President, Product Development and Quality. "Not only do they create an incredibly stiff platform that allows us to tune the suspension and steering to new levels, but they also simplify the manufacturing process. We have been able to reduce the overall number of welds needed in the chassis construction, which limits variations in the manufacturing process and improves dimensional integrity and overall durability."
The stiffness of the frame, and the consistent end product produced through the hydroformimg process produce the best steering and handling characteristics of any heavy-duty pickup on the market. The 2003 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty pickups also featured an all-new rack and pinion steering system and independent front suspension for two-wheel drive models, and heavy-duty beam front and rear axles for four-wheel drive models still found in 08. Designed as a package, Ram's hydroformed frame and standard 17-inch wheels and tires combine to provide excellent ride and handling with reduced Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) characteristics while maintaining durability and load ratings.
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