2010 Dodge Crew Cab Chassis Is A Huge Hit

When I was young, I used to laugh at Dodge Trucks. This was in the sixties and into the 70's, and they were square boxes riding on a frame and suspension that just beat you to death. They just kept doing it, but they weren't very popular. I remember when Dodge came out with that famous sculpted cab. I saw it at the NTEA Super Show in Dallas, I think in about 1994. When I saw it there, I knew it was going to be a huge hit and it absolutely was. All of a sudden, Dodge Trucks were all over the place. Dodge also chose a good partner in hooking up with Cummins for their diesel. Some called it "Old Shakey" but you just have to appreciate the longevity Dodge and Cummins have had together. It's a lot like the Rocky story!

And guess what? A couple years back, Dodge left the commercial market and have regrouped and come back with style and class: Enter the 2010 Dodge Crew Cab Chassis in 3500, 4500 and 5500 series. Even if you don't really like Dodges, you gotta admit (some of you to yourself, of course) that Dodge has done a fine job of building a great chassis. They now have the makings of more than a contender, but a champion!

Here's some stats on the new champion:

• All new crew cab increases leg room six inches
• All new design and exterior styling includes chromed lean-forward grille, new sheet metal, bumper, mirrors, headlamps, and a taller hood for more cooling capacity
• Best-in-class fuel economy, largest standard fuel tank (52 gallons), 4500/5500 largest front brake rotors and calipers, standard diesel exhaust brake, standard diesel 24,000 lb GCWR and optional 26,000 lb GCWR
• All-new comfort and convenience features include all-new heated and ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, automatic temperature control, memory systems, express up/down windows and automatic headlamps
• All-new optional integrated trailer brake controller
• Four all-new upfitter switches integrated into the instrument panel, each capable of running 25 amp loads using 12-gauge wires (continuous) and a dedicated under hood power distribution center
• Polished 19.5" aluminum wheels available on 4500 and 5500 models
• Legendary HEMI and Cummins powertrains
• Ultra-clean 2010 diesel emissions-compliant with new diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) injection based on urea injection Selective Catalyst Reduction (SCR) technology
• Unsurpassed standard diesel engine warranty: 5 years/100,000 miles
• Powerful HEMI V-8 with Variable Valve Timing (VVT) to improve fuel economy up to 4 percent (Ram 3500)
• Six-speed automatic and manual transmission with PTO cabability
• Diesel engine base alternator to increase to 180 amps from 136 amps
• More than 25 safety and security features
• Comprehensive commercial-grade service and support with Body Builder Guide and hotline support from engineering team.

Whew! There's a big list. The clear success is that I see more and more new Dodge chassis on the road--especially the 4500 and 5500. They are obviously a hit, and the 2010 will only improve that. Great job Dodge!