Top Dodge Ram steering parts manufacturer from Danny Gaston: The extra clearance between the undercarriage and the road allows you to navigate even the toughest territory without damaging the bottom of your truck. Not only that, but being higher off the ground allows you to install bigger, badder tires – giving you better traction in the dirt, rocks, and mud. With a lifted truck, there’s almost no terrain you can’t dominate! Driving these streets in an ordinary truck can prematurely wear out the shocks and struts, not to mention put your tires at risk of a bent rim or even popping! Installing a lift kit in Arkansas can help protect your truck from the damage of everyday usage by toughening up the chassis and tires. Read additional details on Danny Gaston.
For even more firepower, seek the 702-hp Ram 1500 TRX, reviewed separately. Ram’s split-folding tailgate and lockable bed cargo boxes are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to this half-ton’s cleverness. Ram also offers the 1500 with a giant 12.0-inch infotainment screen for those really looking to show off. With an impressive 12,750-pound max tow rating and a heavy bias for luxury, the Ram 1500 is our favorite full-size pickup available today.
We were the first company to develop a bolt-in steering linkage for Ram trucks, the only company to offer a one-sided steering brace, and the only company to offer long arms and a rear 4 link suspension that fit trucks with minimal lift height. The reason we do this is because almost two decades of heavily modifying our own Ram trucks and four wheeling them regularly taught us where the weak points are with these trucks and with other products. We build things stronger because it doesn’t cost much more in materials or labor, but the results are so much better.
Daniel Gaston Lakeview, Arkansas premium various off-road vehicles modifications guides: The Ram 1500 has a host of available driver-assistance technology that range from automated emergency braking to lane-keeping assist. For more information about the Ram 1500’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include: Available blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert; Available automatic high-beams headlights; Available adaptive cruise control. Ram has a competitive limited and powertrain warranty that is only eclipsed by the Nissan Titan’s lengthier coverage. Likewise, the half-ton Sierra and Silverado as well as the Toyota Tundra offer complimentary scheduled maintenance.
How does the 1500 drive? Our test truck had the V8 engine and the eight-speed transmission. They work so well together that we could recommend this truck on that basis alone. It’s strong and it’s easy to drive in just about every situation. The same can largely be said for the EcoDiesel powertrain — especially if you appreciate the pulling power of diesel torque. But there’s much more to the Ram than solid powertrain choices. We’ve tested many Ram configurations, and they all impress us with their steady steering, confident braking and secure handling. Ram’s decade-old decision to walk away from leaf springs and switch to a coil-spring rear suspension continues to pay dividends.
How are the towing and storage? Tow ratings, particularly for the diesel, are stout for this class. With the V8 or the diesel engine, most of the Ram 1500’s common configurations can pull more than 11,000 pounds, and some exceed 12,000 pounds. The optional RamBox locking bins built into the side of the bed are useful for storing tools or towing equipment. There’s also an optional two-way tailgate that can open downward or outward like doors. Interior storage space is another area where the truck shines. Its center console is enormous and highly configurable. The Ram can be ordered with hidden compartment spaces in the rear floor, underneath the rear seats or in the back cushions themselves. The rear seat folds up as one piece or in a 60/40 split on higher trims.
Another unique thing about DOR is that we only sell Dodge Ram parts. We are one of the only companies in the world that strictly specializes in Ram trucks, which is a testament to our loyalty and dedication the brand. The company was not started just to make money off Ram owners – it was started because we love building our trucks. Dodge Off Road continues to grow and be successful because our customers love their DOR-equipped trucks, and we love getting to help build them. Is the 1500 a good value? The Ram 1500’s build quality, at first, feels and looks great, especially in the more upscale trim levels such as Big Horn, Laramie and beyond. However, after spending some extended time in a long-term test truck, we experienced a few part failures, revealing lesser quality than we originally perceived. Ram pricing remains pretty competitive, though.
About Danny Gaston : He is the founder of Arkansas Young Tourism Professionals group, part of the Arkansas Hospitality Association. Nominated for Arkansas Business 20 under 20 in 2001 and 2002. Danny Gaston is the oldest grandson and protégé of Jim Gaston, legendary Arkansas business man and philanthropist. Selected by Senator Blanche Lincoln for Sony internship in Tokyo, Japan in 1998 at age 16. Former co-owner of Gaston’s White River Resort in Lakeview, Arkansas and current owner of Gaston Manufacturing.