2007 Dodge Ram HD Review
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The 2007 heavy duty version of the Ram is better than ever. It is stronger, more powerful, and more fuel efficient. The 2007 Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 feature a new heavy-duty frame, the stiffest ever on a heavy-duty Ram. It uses extensively hydroformed and boxed sections tough enough to deliver a segment-leading Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 12,000 lbs. Overall the Dodge Ram Heavy Duty's brake system gives the driver a sense of confidence that it can handle any situation. The stiffness of the frame, and the consistent dynamics afforded through the hydroformimg process, contribute to the best steering and handling of any heavy-duty pickup. The 2007 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty delivers a chassis that can cover ground smoothly, both on- and off-road, and can take the abuse of hard-working Ram customers. Another addition to the ’07 Ram HD is the availability of a diesel engine, a 6.7 liter Cummins turbodiesel that meets the EPA's standards for 2010 three years early. Sold with the 68RFE six-speed automatic, the new diesel includes the Bluetec emissions-reduction system as well as Cummins’ own filters and systems, and meets requirements for all 50 states. Fuel economy savings are quoted as 20 to 40 percent and reduction of oxides of nitrogen (NOx) is quoted at up to 90% (through an adsorber catalyst). Four-wheel drive Dodge Ram Heavy Duty trucks have a redesigned recirculating ball system made to more exacting tolerances than their predecessors. The new system improves on-center steering feel through lower internal friction, with responsiveness enhanced by a quicker ratio. The system also provides a steady helm for highway cruising, with little of the wander and imprecision normally associated with heavy-duty truck steering.
Driving the Ram
As a general rule, the more weight a heavy-duty pickup carries, the more the ride improves. Considering its size and fuel economy, it doesn't make sense to buy one unless you're towing and hauling heavy loads. Parking a truck as big as a Mega Cab requires some care and attention. The 2WD Mega Cab comes with rack-and-pinion steering, while 4WD models come with a recirculating ball system. Dodge Ram Heavy Duty pickups are equipped with standard anti-lock braking and a four-wheel disc system that features the largest rotors in the heavy-duty segment. At 13.9 inches (353 mm) front and rear, these rotors deliver swept area increases of 42 percent (front) and 45 percent (rear) over the previous-generation Ram Heavy Duty
. The larger rotors are made possible by the change to 17-inch wheels and more voluminous linings, which increase braking power, extend lining life, and increase heat dissipation. Designed as a package, Ram's hydroformed frame and standard 17-inch wheels and tires - the largest offered on a heavy-duty pickup - combine to provide excellent ride and handling and reduced NVH characteristics without diminishing durability and load ratings.
Heavy Duty Ram Power
The Cummins turbo diesel is an excellent engine; it is quiet, powerful and responsive. It provides engine braking down long highway grades, thereby leaving the brakes cool, fade-free, and ready for stopping. The diesel's power and fuel economy make it an excellent choice for owners who tow heavy trailers long distances. The diesel's power and fuel economy make it an excellent choice for owners who tow heavy trailers long distances. It develops 345 horsepower at 5400 rpm and makes more torque than horsepower, delivering 375 pound-feet at 4200 rpm.
Dodge Ram Cabin
The result of this reworked truck is a lot of cab space, with six seats and plenty of head, shoulder, leg and hip room. With the front bucket seats, a center console extends from the dashboard. Bench seat models still have a shallow floor console which may not be comfortable for the center rider. The back seats are roomy and comfortable with reclining seatbacks, separate rear heating and air conditioning outlets, reading lights. A substantial four-spoke steering wheel houses cruise control buttons and available stereo controls. Several power outlets are provided for the front seats. Interior door handles are large and heavily built, consistent with the large size of the Ram doors. Behind the passengers is a power sliding rear window for flow-through ventilation.
2007 Ram HD Design
The Dodge Ram HD offers a striking presence. From the front, a more refined crosshair grille with strong, full-chrome collar remains instantly recognizable as a strong Dodge Ram signature. From the side, the Mega Cab makes an even more dramatic impression. Very wide rear doors are unique to the immense Mega Cab, with a very large proportion of window glass to door. Behind this huge cab, the bed looks small, but it remains significantly large: 6 feet, 3 inches in length and 51 inches wide between the wheel wells.
HD Lineup
The 2007 Dodge Ram HD comes in three trim levels, ST, SLT and Laramie, and three cabs (regular, Quad, Mega) with a range of engine choices, payloads and towing capacities. A TRX4 (mild off-road) and Power Wagon (more severe off-road) model are offered only on 2500-series trucks. There is a marked distinction between trim levels. The 2500 comes standard with the Hemi V8 with six-speed manual or available five-speed automatic, optional with the Cummins 6.7-liter Turbo Diesel and a six speed manual or six-speed automatic. The 3500 is more expensive because the Cummins diesel is often standard equipment, especially on dual rear wheel models. The Ram Quad Cab may be big, but the Mega Cab is bigger. It has the power and weight to tow heavy loads for long distances. For better ride and handling, the 2WD 1500 Mega Cab will be the choice. For best control handling heavy loads, the 3500 Dodge Ram Mega Cab dually 2WD with Cummins would do the job.
Safety Features
Because of the added length of the second-row seating area, the air bag system had to be redesigned with larger side curtain air bags. Each side air bag has its own impact sensor in order to trigger the air bag on the side where impact occurs. Safety features also include three-point belts in all seating positions with constant-force retractors, LATCH child-seat anchors, child-protection rear door locks, and four-wheel anti-lock brakes. For more research, read a Dodge Ram 3500 reveiw from JD Power.
