AEV-Conversions – RoadTraveler.net

America Expedition Vehicles’ EcoDiesel 1500

The enthusiasts at American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) have been focused on the heavy-duty Ram Cummins platforms in recent years, but they have now waved their magic wand over a 2017 1500 EcoDiesel. The results are easy on the eyes.

AEV’s modular Premium Front Bumper rides on a prototype AEV 4” DualSport suspension, with 325/60R20 BFG KO2 all-terrains on repainted 20” factory wheels. This is a tall wheel for AEV, who are fans of more tire and less wheel for off-highway performance, but the 35” height is moderate. I expect they will introduce a smaller wheel when the 1500 parts start flowing. A 2500 grille and AEV headlight filler panels were installed to facilitate fitting their Heat Reduction Hood, which is complemented by their Raised Air Intake. AEV’s Bed Rack and a James Baroud tent dress-up the rear.

The EcoDiesel 1500 was merely a prototype, though surely AEV was gauging interest in the 1500 platform for future offerings. For a 4WD that actually sees rugged off-highway use, the heavy-duty trucks are relatively tall, but the 1500s are low-riders. AEV’s treatment transforms the chassis…wonder how my Hallmark camper would look and work in the bed of an AEV-modded EcoDiesel? aev-conversions.com

American Expedition Vehicles: AEV-Conversions

Overland Expo West 2016

Camping and Adventure Travel Exposition At Mormon Lake, Arizona

Overland Expo West is the premiere annual gathering for overland and backcountry travel, an event more important than the SEMA Show for those seeking vehicle-supported adventures. The educational, hands-on, gear shopping, and social opportunities are almost endless, plus it is open to the public, and includes motorcycles. For more about Overland Expo (OE) events visit their website at overlandexpo.com.

During the 2015 event, Flagstaff received a deluge of rain, snow, and resulting mud, combined with unseasonably cold temperatures, but this crowd can handle a little challenge. This year there was some wind, but it was generally very pleasant with seasonal weather.

Ram Truck’s casual press conference was open to the public too.

Ram Truck’s New 2500 Off-Road Package

There is no doubt the Ram Power Wagon is king of full-size trucks in technical terrain, but the Power Wagon package is not available with the Cummins 6.7L for those that prefer the mighty ISB. However, there is a new off-road package for the 2017 Ram 2500 series trucks, including those with the supreme diesel engine from Columbus, Indiana.

Kevin Metz, Head of Ram Heavy Duty Marketing, sharing the lowdown. — Kevin Metz, Head of Ram Heavy Duty Marketing, giving us the lowdown.

Ram conducted a small press conference during OE to talk about their off-highway prowess and offerings. When they shared details on the Ram 2500 Off-road 4×4 Package, I listen intently. The new value-priced option package includes:

-Large front tow hooks

-Fender flares, black or body color (to stop flung debris)

-Bilstein monotube shocks, tuned for the 5-link rear coil suspension and weight

-Firestone LT on/off-road tires, 18” or 20” (less wheel and more sidewall is better off-pavement)

-Transfer-case skid plate (it’s small, but something; a fuel tank skid would be nice)

-Hill-decent control

-Anti-spin rear differential

-“4X4 OFF-ROAD” decals on the tailgate and both sides

This package will be available on almost every trim, cab, wheelbase, gas or diesel-powered 2500 by the third quarter of 2016. Regular cabs were noticeably absent from the list, likely because most are purchased for commercial applications.

Ram Power Wagon is cool, I wish more of its features were offered on Turbo Diesel Rams.

Some EcoDiesel love at the Ram booth. — An EcoDiesel 1500 at the Ram booth.

Attending this annual event is part of my work, but engaging the folks and scene is a pleasure. The following pictures and captions highlight some of the Cummins-powered standouts.