Heavy Equipment Guide Logo

2017 Ram Power Wagon designed for off-road maneuverability

The Ram 1500 EcoDiesel Power Wagon
The Ram 1500 EcoDiesel Power Wagon

Engineered to conquer the great outdoors, the 2017 Ram Power Wagon has received a number of updates including all-new exterior and interior design elements. Based on the Ram 2500 Heavy Duty 4x4 Crew Cab, the Power Wagon features a number of off-road-specific enhancements, including a unique suspension with more than two inches of lift, locking differentials and a Warn 5,443-kg (12,000-pound) winch.

Standard is the 6.4-litre HEMI 16-valve V8 engine: 410 hp at 5,600 rpm and a peak torque rating of 429 lb-ft at 4,000 rpm. The engine calibration is unique to Power Wagon to enhance off-road manoeuvrability and finesse. When driving in four-wheel-drive "Low," the throttle response softens and the idle speed increases by 100 rpm (from 650 to 750 rpm) – providing added control when ascending and descending off-road obstacles at slow speeds.

The HEMI architecture provides the foundation of the 90-degree V8 engine. Cooled exhaust-gas recirculation (EGR) delivers greater efficiency and elevated refinement. These attributes are manifested in reduced pumping losses and lower emissions. Pumping losses are further reduced by variable-valve timing (VVT). Efficiency is a hallmark of the 6.4-litre HEMI V8, starting with the company’s Fuel Saver cylinder-deactivation technology. When conditions allow, as in highway cruising, the system seamlessly shuts down four cylinders to conserve fuel. The engine features an active dual-runner-length intake manifold optimized specifically for the Ram Heavy Duty lineup. The result is improved low-end torque without sacrificing high-end power.

Efficiency is further reflected in a revised positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system, which is integrated in the intake manifold. The resulting benefit is improved oil efficiency.

Heat is the enemy of durability. But the 6.4-litre HEMI V8 includes such features as:

  • Robust/high-volume oil cooler
  • Oil jets for piston cooling
  • Aircraft grade, stainless steel gaskets and fasteners for improved durability at high temperatures

In addition, computational fluid dynamics was employed to optimize the cooling circuit in the block, heads and water pump. With upgraded valve-seat material to fight wear, and anchored by a cast-iron block, aluminum cylinder heads and forged-steel crankshaft, the 6.4-litre HEMI V8 boasts a five-year / 100,000-kilometre powertrain warranty.

The 6.4-litre HEMI is offered with the 66RFE six-speed automatic transmission and connects to a part-time, manual-engagement Borg Warner BW 44-47 transfer case. Hill Descent Control allows drivers to control Power Wagon’s speed down steep, rugged grades with the buttons on the column shifter – without the need for throttle or brake pedals.

The Power Wagon’s axles are the pinnacle of durability. Built by American Axle Manufacturing, the units measure 325 millimetres (9.25 inches) in the front and 292 millimetres (11.5 inches) in the rear (an increase from 10.5 inches), delivering power via a 4.10:1 ring and pinion ratio. Robust rear axle shafts are upgraded to 38 mm, providing rotating force directly to the 33-inch tire/wheel combination. Both axles include electronic-locking differentials driven by electro-magnetic actuators. All Ram Heavy Duty trucks incorporate a segment-exclusive, front-axle disconnect system. When conditions warrant, front drivetrain components are disconnected to reduce parasitic loss and improve overall efficiency.

Ram Truck Heritage - 1934 Dodge KC Truck

Company info

One Riverside Drive West
Windsor, ON
CA, N9A 5K3

Website:
fcacanada.ca/en

Read more

Related Articles