rvanvoo
Washington State
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Joined: 10/05/2006
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I have a 5500 with upfitting from bodywerks in Indiana. Check their web site as they have different models for the Dodge. I am very impressed with their product.
Web site is www.utilitybodywerks.com
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Dustytuu
Colorado USA
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Joined: 03/16/2004
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They did our pick up bed. They do great work!
2008 dodge 5500, diesel,Laramie cab, pressure pro tire.
2008 Carri-Lite 36SBQ, 4 slides,dishwasher,washer/dryer,2 fireplaces
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pupeperson
Silver Springs, NV
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Joined: 02/01/2007
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A couple of considerations when thinking about the 4500 and 5500 series trucks are that they do not have the same engine tuning as the smaller units (45 less hp and 40 less ft lbs torque) and are speed limited at only 75 mph or so (max rated speed for the tires.) These items can probably be worked around, but they aren't really the same animal as the smaller trucks. They have a different automatic transmission as well.
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SoCalDesertRiders
SanDiego CA
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Joined: 06/15/2008
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Umm.. I think the transmission is the same model.
Yes, the engines are de-rated a bit, but you can get a lower axle ratio which more than makes up for the engine power.
The exhaust brake is included as standard equipment if I remember right.
Speed governed at 75 mph shouldn't be a problem. No one should be towing trailers heavy enough to require a 4500/5500 truck at speeds above 75 mph anyways...
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donn0128
Pronounced Ore-gun
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Joined: 04/21/2005
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SoCalDesertRiders wrote:Umm.. I think the transmission is the same model. Up to 3500 series the automatic is a Chrysler built 6 apeed. 4500/5500 series trucks get the Aisan built 6 speed auto with PTO. So they are different!
Yes, the engines are de-rated a bit, but you can get a lower axle ratio which more than makes up for the engine power.
The exhaust brake is included as standard equipment if I remember right.
Speed governed at 75 mph shouldn't be a problem. No one should be towing trailers heavy enough to require a 4500/5500 truck at speeds above 75 mph anyways...
Donn
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Fast Mopar
Houston, TX
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Joined: 05/03/2005
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The Dodge 4500 and 5500 have the Aisin 6 speed automatic, and the 2500/3500 Cummins models have the 68RFE 6 speed automatic. I would think that a 75 mph limit would be acceptable, especially since the primary focus of these trucks is to carry big loads. I believe that the Ford F-450 might have a similar speed governor (not exactly sure).
2004 Ford Freestar 4.2 liter
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Dustytuu
Colorado USA
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Joined: 03/16/2004
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Yes our 5500 is geared different than smaller trucks. And it doesn't go over 75 miles an hour. Who wants to tow that fast? We do not. I only go around 55 to 60. DH does around 65.
Isn't the tranny designed by Mercedes? (DH is not here at the moment to ask)
This truck tows beautifully.
Has the power and stops very well. Love the exhaust brake. Handy in the mountains. Doesn't have the zip our 2500 did but we didn't buy it for zip.
We get 10 MPG in the mountains towing. Flat land towing we get around 12 MPG. It will do better after break in. Our previous diesel did. This was figured by hand so is accurate. Do not competely trust the computer thing.
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JRC
Rancho Cucamonga CA
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Joined: 04/16/2002
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I know of a 5500 sitting at a dealership in Norco CA. at Fraham Dodge, and has a flat bed with belly boxes on both sides with gooseneck set up. Could be easily outfitted with a 5th Wheel hitch. Price: $50,000
1999 Dodge 2500 QC CTD manual 5 speed
2001 Carriage Cameo LXI F27RKS
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pupeperson
Silver Springs, NV
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My comment about the 75 mph speed limiter wasn't really directed to usage while towing. I agree there's no real need to go even that fast while towing.
But many people require their rigs to do double duty -- tow/haul and as a daily driver. I just thought people should be aware of the trucks limitations regarding speed. In some parts of TX, the truck wouldn't even run the speed limit of 80 mph across I-10 for instance. With fuel the way it is, its probably not a big deal, but it may be a consideration to some so I brought it up.
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countryrose
Redding, Ca
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Joined: 11/14/2005
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Maybe he is looking at the wrong 4500, try the Chev/GMC 4500 with Duramax/Alison.
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