<|The Power Wagon Tradesman has all of the
Power Wagon functionality in a more affordable
and function-first package.
60 SEPTEMBER 2019 FOUR WHEELER fourwheeler.com
First Drive 2019 Ram Power Wagon
Heavy Duty, the new Power Wagon benefits
from changes to the rest of the Ram lineup.
Starting with a nearly all-new frame that is now
manufactured with 98.5 percent high-strength
steel, the Power Wagon frame weighs less and
offers the best torsional rigidity in the segment.
Ram has also made a concerted effort to make
this truck the quietest HD Ram ever, with im-
proved NVH that includes new C-pillar hydro
mounts, frame-mounted anti-vibration technol-
ogy, new engine mounts, in-cabin active noise
canceling, and upgraded exhaust attachments.
Also, a new braking system has received a
complete overhaul, including upgraded calipers,
master cylinder, and booster that work together
to improve stopping distances and improve
brake feel.
The body structure, while having a similar
look to the outgoing truck, uses more aluminum
(hood) and high-strength steel in the body
structure where there was formerly mild steel.
The new truck features all-LED lighting
(including the clearance and taillights) and a
cleaner interpretation of the previous Rebel and
Power Wagon grille that prominently features
the new R-A-M logo. With the running lights
on, these simple changes give the Power Wagon
a menacing, strong look.
Inside, the Power Wagon is the perfect
juxtaposition of traditional and unexpected.
The award-winning Ram 1500 interior has
been adapted to the Heavy Duty cab, which
means the exceptional 12-inch Uconnect screen
is optional, as is a 17-speaker audio system, a
360-degree camera system, and adaptive cruise
control. However, purists will still appreciate
the manual transfer case shift lever on the floor
and the six-passenger seating.
As far as powertrain goes, the Power Wagon
still uses the 410hp and 429–lb-ft 6.4L Hemi
V-8 with MDS, but for 2019 the old 66RFE
six-speed automatic has been replaced by an
exceptional ZF 8HP75 eight-speed automatic,QUICK SPECS (AS TESTED)
Vehicle/model: ’19 Ram Power Wagon
Base price: $52,900
Engine: 6.4L OHV Hemi V-8 w/MDS
Rated hp/torque (lb-ft): 410/429
Transmission: ZF 8HP75 8-spd
Transfer case: BorgWarner 44-47, part-time,
manual shift
4WD system: 2-Hi, 4-Hi, Neutral, 4-Lo
Low range ratio: 2.64:1
Frame type: Ladder
Suspension, f/r: Three-link (Articulink) with track bar,
coil springs, electronic-disconnecting stabilizer bar, solid
axle/five-link with track bar, coil springs, stabilizer bar,
solid axle
Axle ratio: 4.10:1
Max crawl ratio: 51:1
Steering: Hydraulic power recirculating ball
Brakes, f/r: 14.17x1.54-in disc with twin-piston pin-slider
caliper and ABS/14.09x1.34-in disc with twin-piston pin-
slider caliper and ABS
Tires: LT285/70R17 Goodyear DuraTrac
Wheelbase (in): 149.3
Length (in): 238.8
Height (in): 80.9
Width (in): 83.4
Base curb weight (lb): 6.907
Approach/departure angles (deg): 33.6/26.2
Minimum ground clearance (in): 8.3
Payload (lb): 1,660
Max towing capacity (lb): 10,620
Fuel capacity (gal): 31|>For 2019, the Power Wagon Warn winch has been
upgraded to a Zeon 12–based model with 90 feet of
synthetic rope and a Hawse fairlead.->The front of the Power Wagon uses Ram’s
Articulink system with an electronically activated
swaybar disconnect system. The AAM 9.25 axle
houses an electronic locker.
which is an absolute game-changer for the
Power Wagon. For example, the First gear ratio
changes from the six-speed’s 3.23 to the eight-
speed’s low, low 4.71:1 with Second gear now
sporting a 3.14:1 instead of 1.84. This not only
means better drivability, better towing, and a
smoother launch, but the Power Wagon’s max
crawl ratio with the 2.64:1 BorgWarner 44-47
T-case increases from 35:1 to an astonishing
51:1. No diesel option is available because the
torque rating would necessitate different axles,
rougher-riding suspension, and the cooling
stack intrudes on the electronic sway bar’s real
estate. However, we think that Cummins’ sweet
(and lighter) 5.0L V-8 would be the absolutely
perfect powerplant in the Power Wagon and
take up less space. Just sayin’...if anyone at
Ram is listening.
Back to that winch. The old 12,000-pound
Power Wagon winch, which was similar to the
venerable Warn M12000 but with a reverse-
rotation drum, a special low-voltage interrupt
control box, 90 feet of wire rope, and a roller