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
Truck owners have been waiting for Warn to offer the safer and lighter synthetic winch rope on their Heavy Weight Series winches; that day has come. Warn’s Spydura or Spydura Pro rope now comes on their M12-S, M15-S, and 16.5ti-s winches, which also have Warn’s Epic Hook and a polished Hawse fairlead.
Warn added their synthetic rope to their Heavy Weight Series
A few years ago Warn introduced their VR Series, as a competitively priced line of winches that are still designed and tested by Warn engineers. Updated, they now feature a waterproof Albright® contactor instead of solenoids, located in a convertible control pack that can remain atop the winch or be remotely mounted. Synthetic rope is now available on the 12,000-pound VR 12-S, as well as the 8,000- and 10,000-pound versions. The clutch handle has a new, more ergonomic design.
Updated VR Warn winches
As of November 1, 2016, all Warn truck winches sold in North America, including the VR Series, feature a limited lifetime mechanical warranty (unchanged), with a newly updated seven year electrical warranty, which was previously only one year.
Warn has assembled all of their Epic winching accessories into one Epic Recovery Kit. An Epic snatch block, two shackles, a tree trunk protector, premium recovery strap, and gloves are packaged in a backpack. Employing a purpose-built backpack for a recovery kit is a simple yet overdue idea, as having your hands free while toting heavy gear over slippery and/or uneven terrain can be invaluable. The backpack is made from durable ballistic material, has adjustable/modular compartments, and also functions as a winch line damper. It comes in a medium-duty version for winches up to 12,000 pounds or a heavy-duty kit for winches up to 18,000 pounds.
EPIC Recovery Kit in a handy backpack
Copyright James Langan/RoadTraveler. All Rights Reserved.
This 2016 SEMA Show post is centered around diesel pickups, and towing and hauling. Originally written for and published in my Still Plays With Trucks column, for the Turbo Diesel Register magazine.
Was it Ford’s Year to Shine At SEMA?
The publisher of the Turbo Diesel Register suggested that I gauge enthusiasm for the new 2017 Ford Super Duty trucks based on how many were used for SEMA projects. There were certainly several new Super Dutys prominently displayed and flying Ford colors at various booths. One of my favorites was Mickey Thompson’s Tall Boy, created by X-Treme Toyz, which had a 6.2L gas V8 under the hood instead of a Power Stroke Diesel. As big and bad as the Tall Boy is, it is tastefully moderate compared to many of the ridiculous and all-show-but-no-go trucks. But that is SEMA, and I’m guilty of being too practical. Sporting Mickey Thompson’s new 20” Sidebiter wheels and 40” Baja MTZ P3 tires, the front bumper and grille treatment tastefully subdued Ford’s huge and blinding factory pieces. mickeythompsontires.com
Tall Boy 40 Mickey Thompson Super Duty Project
Tall Boy 40 Mickey Thompson Super Duty Project
Noting a few new Fords was fine, but my personal bias favors the Ram/Cummins combination. Despite 18-years of Ford Power Stroke ownership (a good-old 7.3L) I never loved the sound of the rattling V8 compared to the inline-6 tractor music of the Cummins ISB. Even in its quieter modern form, there is simply no comparison. Despite the race to upstage each other with the highest power, torque, and/or tow rating numbers, the venerable inline-6 still delivers, admittedly with less horsepower, as an inline-6 doesn’t like to rev like the V8s. However, personal biases aside, all the heavy-duty diesel pickups offered in North America these days are insanely capable and cool. Pick one. For my 2016 SEMA Show assignment for Turbo Diesel Register, I focused on some of the new stuff, some of it Ram-specific, and the remainder good for most any truck.
PERFORMANCE/MAINTENANCE
BD Diesel Performance
New for the 2007.5 to 2016 6.7L Cummins is the BD HE351VE Screamer Turbo, which offers:
-Drop-in replacement for the factory turbo; no downpipe or air intake mods required
-New Ballistic 64.5mm 7+7 blade compressor wheel, and new 70mm 12-blade turbine
-Exclusive BD turbine profile to reduce back pressure and increase turbine flow
-Supports up to 690 HP
-Lower EGT
-NEW Holset VGT actuator
BD’s Brian Roth explained that one of the problems observed with the 6.7L engine is high exhaust temperatures and high-drive pressures (the amount of pressure it takes to drive the turbo—or resistance), even on stock trucks without increased fuel delivery. This drop-in replacement turbocharger was designed to address these issues, while supporting 90HP injectors and a tuner set on “extreme”, delivering up to 690 horsepower.
It’s noteworthy that BD includes a new control module atop these turbos, which is important because it’s one of the more failure-prone components, even on the OE turbos according to Brian. He cautioned that often rebuilt turbochargers employ used electronics of unknown reliability. This isn’t surprising because the controllers are about $1,400, but BD focuses on quality and reliability and doesn’t want worn electronics on their new turbo. The MSRP for the new Screamer Turbo is $3,000, and the very good factory exhaust brake button on the newer trucks will still work.
BD Diesel Perfomance Screamer Turbo
Fewer performance products have been available for late-models trucks, partially because of increased emissions testing and enforcement, which helps make this bolt-on product even more significant. Of course, it takes extra fuel to make more power and torque, so the Screamer is intended to complement fuel-delivery modifications. Diesel Tech Magazine liked the Screamer Turbo enough to award BD one of their top five “Show Stopper” awards.
BD Dana 70 Diff Cover
There is no denying that high-capacity, replacement aluminum differential covers are functional, sharp, and come with none of the possible compromises associated with some high-performance modifications. This new BD cover is for 1981 to 2002 Dodge trucks, and features:
-Baffled design to keep the oil on the gears
-Extra oil capacity
-Internal and external cooling fins
-Stainless-steel Allen cap screws and fill plug
-Magnetic drain plug
-Gasket-less, reusable O-ring-sealed cover
BD Dana 70 Rear Diff Cover
Patriot Plug
The aftermarket’s response demonstrates that many enthusiasts are not comfortable with the capless fuel filler on new Ram diesels. BD joins the fray with their anodized billet aluminum filler cap. It has a magnetized base, a bottle-opener feature, and a gun-cylinder-styled handle that accepts spent 9mm shells. dieselperformance.com
BD Patriot Plug fuel cap
TOWING/HAULING
BOLT
TDR readers know from my TDR93 SPWT column that I love BOLT’s ignition-key locks. (BOLT Lock review on RoadTraveler) Their new Off Vehicle Coupler Lock makes it virtually impossible for someone to hookup and move your trailer. I hope to give this piece more attention in an upcoming article. boltlock.com
Off Vehicle Couple Lock from BOLT
CURT Manufacturing
The A25 fifth-wheel hitch from Curt includes:
-25,000 pound rated fifth-wheel hitch (20k was the largest before), designed to work with the factory Ram fifth-wheel prep option
-360-degree locking jaws
-Release lever that rotates in an arc around the pivot pin, instead of pulling straight out
-Patented yoke system under the head provides 10-degrees of movement in all directions
-Auto resetting jaws allow coupling without a manual reset
-Green, yellow, red coupler condition indicator
TruTrack 15k weight distribution system for 2” shank receivers:
Building on the existing TruTrack system that integrates sway-control into the weight-distribution hitch, Curt revealed a new 15,000-pound version. Trailers and ratings continue to climb, but not everyone wants a 2.5” receiver, preferring to keep their 2” hitch.
Curt is still a U.S. manufacturer of truck accessories, making their products in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. curtmfg.com
TruTrack 15,000 lb. 2” hitch from CURT
Air LiftLoadLifter 7500 XL
Designed for owners of heavy-duty pickups, the new LoadLifter 7500 series provides up to 7,500-pounds of load-leveling capacity for towing heavy gooseneck and fifth-wheel trailers or hauling big slide-in campers. The 7” bellows were engineered for maximum loads, but like most air springs they can be run anywhere between 5 and 100 psi. airliftcompany.com
7500 XL LoadLifter from Air Lift
Trailer Legs
Are you concerned about flat spots and the overall health of your trailer tires as they sit motionless for months during the off-season? Pulling onto Trailer Legs rotates them into position and lifts your trailer axles, allowing the tires to rest without supporting the weight of the trailer. Each stand is rated to hold two tons, or 8,000 pounds per axle. trailerlegs.com
Off Season Trailer Legs supports
Transfer Flow 40-Gallon In-Bed Tank
This 40-Gallon in-bed auxiliary fuel tank system for 1999 to 2017 Ram trucks is available for both long and short bed pickups. It is designed to fit the newer pickups that come equipped with OEM fifth-wheel pucks in the bed. The tank will also work in RamBox trucks. As with all Transfer Flow tanks, it’s made from 14-gauge aluminized steel, with internal baffles, in Chico, California, USA. transferflow.com
40-gallon Transfer Flow tank that works with OE fifth-wheel pucks
GENERAL ACCESSORIES
A.R.E. Caps
Windows for the pickup shell industry are mostly aluminum-framed products very similar to those used in RVs. They work, but there are some limitations. A.R.E. is raising the bar by installing front and side windows using a new urethane adhesion process. These widows eliminate the frames and screws, provide exceptional sealing, and a seamless integration of tempered automotive glass to the caps. This also means that a local glass shop can replace a broken window easily. A.R.E. is also introducing all-glass rear doors that are contoured to fit modern tailgates, precisely. In early 2017, both the urethane adhesion windows and contoured rear doors will be offered for current trucks and a few recent models. 4are.com
Automotive-style windows for A.R.E. truck capsRear glass with tailgate contour
Rigid LED Lighting
The new ADAPT series from Rigid are capable of adjusting from a wide flood to a spot beam based on vehicle speed. Drivers can also use a dash controller to select eight different beam patterns from 60-degrees to a mere 5-degrees as well as any RGB-W accent light. All this from a single light bar that is available in several lengths. rigidindustries.com
Versatile ADAPT lights from Rigid
Luverne Truck Equipment
New Baja Guard uses 2” tubular one-piece construction, Made-in-USA, and powder coated black with vehicle-specific mounts for 2014-forward Ram trucks.
O-MEGA II 6” Oval Steps are an updated design featuring T6 aluminum 6” oval steps, vehicle-specific brackets, boards that are trimmed to the desired length, with the stainless-steel step pads (screwed-in) placement as chosen by the owner/installer.
The Tow Guard slides over your receiver, allowing 3/8” thick textured rubber flaps to deflect road debris, protecting your trailer. This 4-month-old product is designed for the most common 2” receiver, but Luverne is working on a version for 2.5” and 3” hitches. luvernetruck.com
Tow Guard 3/8” thick flaps
Extreme Outback Products Endura Compressor
Possibly the most powerful 12-volt compressor I own is an older ExtremeAire from Extreme Outback Products. However, that portable, metal toolbox-mounted version is not the smallest or lightest unit, and Extreme Outback’s new Endura was designed to fit a smaller space while still providing plenty of air for many needs.
The Endura can be permanently mounted (in any orientation), the compressors are waterproof, with a 30-amp motor rated for 1.2 CFM @ 100 psi, and they have a 100% duty-cycle at 70-degrees Fahrenheit. The Endura is ideal for air-suspensions, air-horns, or the occasional tire inflation chore. Single- or dual-compressor portables mounted in stout plastic boxes will also be produced. Like all Extreme Outback Products, the Endura employs only the highest quality fittings and hoses. This is just the latest addition to a complete line of 12-volt automotive compressors and recovery gear from Extreme Outback. extremeoutback.com
Extreme Outback Products Endura compressor
Copyright James Langan/RoadTraveler. All Rights Reserved.
Superwinch unveiled their new EXP Series “Expedition Grade” winches in 8-, 10-, and 12,000-pound ratings. They will be available in integrated and non-intergraded solenoid box versions, with either wire or synthetic rope. Features include: an operation status/temp light on the winch face, an auto clutch, LED lighting for the two auxiliary power ports, sockets, and drum/rope area, wired and wireless controls, and military-grade potted electronics. The attractive design is also more compact than the older Talon line. Superwinch has filed eight patent applications for the EXP Series, which are assembled in Portland, Oregon, from globally sourced parts. They are scheduled to hit retailer shelves by April 2017.
Copyright James Langan/RoadTraveler. All Rights Reserved.
A few tires that got my attention at the 2016 SEMA Show.
Cooper Discoverer STT PRO in 40×13.50R17LT
Cooper STT PRO 40”
We really live in a super-sized America, maybe world? Tires that would have been almost monster truck worthy a few decades ago are now produced in highway-rated, easy to balance radial designs. Cooper introduced their fantastically rugged, yet tame on-road, Discoverer STT PRO in a new 40×13.50R17LT size.
Cooper has manufactured 40” tires for subsidiary and private label brands; however, this is the first to wear the flagship Cooper name. Two other big sizes were introduced, the 38×15.50R18 and 38×15.50R20. As sizable as these may sound, 35×12.50” tires can be fitted to Fourth Generation Ram Cummins Turbo Diesels with no lift, stock wheels, and only minimal rubbing. coopertire.com
Mastercraft CXT, a new commercial traction design
Mastercraft Courser CXT
This past summer Cooper subsidiary Mastercraft introduced their latest commercial traction tire, the Courser CXT. The CXT features: variable full-depth siping, silica-rich compound for wet/winter traction (M+S rated), large scallops on the outer lugs and generous sidewall shoulder rubber. They are available in 29 sizes, each with a generous 18.5/32” tread depth. A friend and I have been logging miles on a set, accumulating wear data from two Ram/Cummins trucks. mastercrafttires.com
Mickey Thompson’s new Deegan 38, 5-rib all-terrain design.
Mickey Thompson
Mickey Thompson introduced the Deegan 38 All-Terrain for wheels from 15” to 22”. Twenty-nine sizes are available now, with two more coming in April, and the final two sometime in the second quarter of 2017. Light-truck sizes come with a 55,000-mile tread-wear warranty, and P-metric sizes have a 60,000-mile tread-wear warranty. Mickey Thompson says the new design features a “silica-reinforced compound and special siping for great traction, superior cut and chip resistance, and excellent handling and braking in wet and off-road conditions. Tread element tie bars enhance stability and responsive handling on changing road conditions. Angled shoulder scallops and aggressive two-pitch SideBiter’s enhance traction.” mickeythompsontires.com
Ridge Grappler from Nitto Tire
Nitto Ridge Grappler
The newest LT design from Nitto looks like a winner. A hybrid all-terrain with traction lugs for the outer ribs and a slightly lower-void center, it looks like noise should be well controlled. The shoulder tread is beefy, and, as with all Nitto LT tires, there is a different design on each side; you choose. Several sizes are made for 17” to 22” wheels. nittotire.com
Toyo’s Open Country C/T mountain-snowflake rated
Toyo C/T
Manufactures are offering enthusiasts traction tires that are much quieter and less aggressive than mudders but with superior all-weather traction characteristics over a traditional all-terrain or all-season. Toyo eliminated all doubt about the target market by putting it right in the name; C/T stands for commercial traction. The Toyo Open Country C/T was originally only available in Canada, but it was released for sale in the USA in 2016. The C/T meets the mountain snowflake/Alpine severe winter spin-up test requirements. toyotires.com
Copyright James Langan/RoadTraveler. All Rights Reserved.
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, 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.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.
Owner/Engineer of AEV Dave Harriton’s latest personal canvas on which a custom camper will be built. Dave is a G56 fan, but likes good A/T too, and this 3500 has an Aisin tranny. In these photos the truck already has: AEV DualSport suspension, front bumper, intake snorkel, diff covers, steering upgrades, and the new AEV ventilated hood. The bright white fleet-look paint was covered with a mellow gray color.Using a chassis cab allows 74 gallons of fuel capacity (F 22 R 52), and the DEF tank will be relocated to a less vulnerable and obtrusive location.Huge 41” Super Swamper singles replaced the factory DRW setup, and 4.30 gears and ARB lockers are in the differentials.Mario Donovan, co-owner of AT Overland Equipment, built this Third Generation Cummins recently. An ARB bumper protects the nose, and a Four Wheel Camper mounts to a custom flatbed.Dave Bennett is the founder of the American Adventurist website and forum, a place focused on exploring what we have available here instead of abroad, and he recently left Toyota for Ram. His new 2500 project already had lots of cool stuff, including a Buckstop front bumper, but since this photo it received a custom flatbed and Four Wheel Camper.Dually trucks remain a great choice for heavy slide-in campers, even a popup, particularly if challenging and/or narrow dirt roads are not part of the plan. BundutecUSA is a relatively new camper company based in Iowa.A simple, travlin’ light rooftop tent setup.
