2019 Ram 5500 Overview
The 2019 Ram 5500 stands as a formidable contender in the heavy-duty pickup truck segment, engineered for demanding commercial applications and serious towing/hauling needs. It offers a robust platform with impressive capability, designed to tackle tough jobs with reliability and power.
Highlights
- Engine: The heart of the 2019 Ram 5500 is the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 engine. This powerhouse delivers exceptional torque (known to exceed 850 lb-ft in its class) for effortless towing of heavy trailers and hauling substantial payloads. It's renowned for its durability and proven performance in commercial environments.
- Safety Features:
- Advanced Multistage Front Airbags: These airbags deploy with varying force based on the severity of the impact, offering tailored protection to occupants.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC): This system helps prevent rollovers and loss of steering control by automatically applying individual wheel brakes and reducing engine power when it detects a loss of traction.
- Trailer Sway Control: An extension of ESC, this feature automatically detects and corrects trailer sway by applying brake pressure to individual wheels and reducing engine power. This is crucial for maintaining control when towing heavy loads.
- ParkView Rear Back-Up Camera: Provides a clear visual of the area behind the vehicle, making backing up into tight spaces or hitching trailers significantly safer and easier.
- Integrated Voice Command with Bluetooth: While not a direct safety feature in the collision avoidance sense, this allows drivers to make calls and control certain vehicle functions hands-free, reducing driver distraction.
- Summary of Trims: The 2019 Ram 5500 was primarily offered in two core configurations catering to commercial needs:
- Tradesman: This is the no-nonsense, work-focused trim. It emphasizes utility, durability, and essential features for the job site. Expect robust interior materials and a straightforward, functional design.
- SLT: Building upon the Tradesman, the SLT adds a degree of comfort and convenience. It often includes features like power windows and locks, a more refined interior, and potentially upgraded audio systems, making it suitable for longer workdays or crews who spend significant time on the road.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Exceptional Towing and Hauling Capacity: The Ram 5500 is built for serious work. Its Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) and Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) are among the highest in its class, allowing it to handle fifth-wheel trailers, gooseneck trailers, and heavy-duty vocational equipment with ease.
- Chassis Cab Configuration: The 5500 is typically sold as a chassis cab, meaning the buyer chooses and outfits the rear bodywork (e.g., flatbed, service body, dump bed) to suit their specific business needs. This customization is a significant advantage for commercial users.
- Robust Drivetrain: The heavy-duty chassis and suspension are designed to withstand the stresses of constant heavy loads and rough terrain.
- Navistar Partnership: For this generation, Ram continued its partnership with Navistar, leveraging their engineering expertise for the heavy-duty chassis and powertrains.
What to Expect
Ownership of a 2019 Ram 5500 is typically characterized by dependability and focused utility. These trucks are workhorses, and their design prioritizes function over luxury. Expect a sturdy, somewhat utilitarian interior with durable materials that can withstand the rigors of commercial use. The ride quality, especially when unladen, can be firm due to its heavy-duty suspension components.
- Maintenance: Regular and thorough maintenance is crucial for keeping a Ram 5500 operating at its peak. This includes oil changes (often with specific diesel-grade oils), filter replacements, fluid checks (coolant, transmission, brake), and inspections of the suspension and braking systems. Given the powerful diesel engine, maintenance intervals are important to follow to ensure longevity. Many owners opt for dealership service or specialized diesel mechanics.
- Insurance: Insurance premiums for a 2019 Ram 5500 are generally higher than for consumer-grade pickups. This is due to the vehicle's higher purchase price (as a chassis cab), its intended commercial use (which can increase risk factors for insurers), and the cost of repairs for its heavy-duty components. Factors like driver history, coverage levels, and the specific commercial application will significantly influence the cost.
Potential Considerations
- Fuel Economy: While the Cummins diesel is powerful, it's not designed for fuel efficiency in the way a lighter-duty truck might be. Expect lower MPG figures, especially when towing or hauling heavy loads, which is typical for this class of vehicle.
- Maneuverability: Due to its substantial size and robust chassis, the Ram 5500 can be less maneuverable in tight urban environments or parking lots compared to smaller trucks. Its turning radius is larger, and drivers need to be more mindful of its dimensions.
- Comfort and Refinement: While SLT trims offer some creature comforts, the primary focus is on capability. The ride can be stiff, and noise levels from the diesel engine, while well-managed, are still present, especially under acceleration. It's a utilitarian vehicle, and buyers should temper expectations for a plush, car-like experience.
- Customization Lead Time: As a chassis cab, the final vehicle configuration depends on the aftermarket body that is installed. This means there can be a lead time between purchasing the chassis and having the complete, job-ready vehicle, requiring careful planning and coordination with upfitters.
Overall Summary
The 2019 Ram 5500 is a supremely capable and rugged heavy-duty truck built for the toughest commercial jobs. Its 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine provides immense power for towing and hauling, supported by a robust chassis and essential safety features like trailer sway control. While its focus on utility means a firmer ride and less refinement than consumer pickups, its durability, customization potential as a chassis cab, and outright capability make it an excellent choice for businesses and individuals who require a truck that can consistently perform demanding tasks. It's a tool for serious work, delivering reliability and power where it matters most.