2013 Ram Chassis Cab

The new Ram Chassis Cab trucks get an all-new interior, the latest infotainment technology, and simplified upfit solutions. Buyers will get a five-year/100,000-km gasoline powertrain warranty and a five-year/160,000-km diesel powertrain warranty.

Features include a number of industry exclusives, says Chrysler, like the vehicle system interface module (VSIM) that can communicate between aftermarket modules and truck control modules. The class-exclusive module acts as a secure gateway to the vehicles’ electrical systems and data bus architecture to enable secure plug ‘n play connectivity for up-fitter use.

With upfits in mind, the 2013 Ram Chassis Cab trucks feature new frames built with high-strength 50-ksi steel, including eight separate crossmembers. With no components or lines above the rear frame rails, there isn’t the need for modification and relocation. One piece, C-channel rear frame rails, and through-the-frame plumbing and electrical provide a flat plane for ease of mounting application bodies and accessories.

New springs have been integrated to handle heavier front loads while maintaining front ride height. The improvements are also said to help with overall roll stiffness, an important characteristic in taller vehicles, especially trucks with heavy payloads. The newly designed Hotchkiss rear leaf-spring suspension provides a minimum of zero degrees rake angle at max load and also maintains ride and handling, the company says.

Along with suspension changes, Ram engineers improved the Chassis Cab’s steering. The drag link is repositioned over the track bar to reduce roll oversteer and to improve tracking at highway speeds. Also, the drag link is now attached directly to the knuckle, offering improved efficiency for driver input. The caster and track are increased for more wheel aligning torque, which improves return-to-centre at the steering wheel. A new ball-joint alignment feature and sealing method improves alignment and durability. These improvements are said to result in enhanced on-centre feel despite high towing and payload capacities.

The 2013 Ram Chassis Cab also comes equipped with updated engine, transmission and body mounts for better noise, vibration and harshness control. Electronic stability control is standard on all models.

New for 2013 is an optional dual 220-amp alternator system on the diesel-equipped truck for handling the higher electrical loads required in upfits like emergency lighting and electric clutch pumps.

Start of production of the 2013 Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cab is scheduled for the first quarter of 2013 at the Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant in Coahuila, Mexico.